VCDS (formerly VAG-COM) is a powerful diagnostic software for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles. Using Vcds For Xp requires specific USB driver installation. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough for installing VCDS USB drivers on Windows XP. While VCDS typically installs drivers automatically, this guide offers solutions for manual installation if the automatic process fails.
Troubleshooting VCDS Driver Installation on Windows XP
Before proceeding, ensure you’ve downloaded and installed the latest version of VCDS for XP from the official Ross-Tech website. If not, download it before continuing.
After installing VCDS, connect your Ross-Tech USB interface to your computer’s USB port. There’s no need to connect to a car at this stage. Ideally, the New Hardware Found Wizard should appear automatically.
If the wizard doesn’t pop up, manually locate the interface:
- Right-click “My Computer” and select “Manage.”
- Open “Device Manager.”
- Find the interface under “Universal Serial Bus (USB) Controllers” or “Other Devices.”
- Right-click the interface and select “Update Driver.” Then proceed to Step 4 below.
Manually Installing VCDS Drivers for XP
Once the New Hardware Found Wizard appears, follow these steps:
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Choose Installation Method: Select “Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)” and click “Next.”
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Specify Driver Location:
- Check “Search for the best driver in these locations.”
- Check “Include this location in the search.”
- Click “Browse” and navigate to the VCDS installation folder (usually
C:Ross-TechVCDS). - Click “OK.”
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Continue Installation: Click “Next.”
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Administrator Privileges: If prompted with a message stating that the hardware will not be installed, ensure you’re logged in with administrator rights. If you are not, log in as administrator and repeat from Step 3. You might also need to adjust driver signing settings:
- Go to “Start” -> “Settings” -> “Control Panel” -> “System” -> “Hardware” -> “Driver Signing.”
- Select “Warn” and choose “Prompt me each time to choose an action.”
- Retry the installation from Step 3.
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Driver Warning: You’ll likely see a warning about the driver not being certified by Microsoft. Click “Continue Anyway.”
Note: If your Windows Security Settings policy is undefined, you might need to set it to “warn” before proceeding. (See this link for guidance.)
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Complete Installation: Click “Finish” in the final dialog box.
Verifying VCDS Driver Installation
After installation, launch VCDS and verify the connection:
- Click “Options.”
- Select “USB” in the “Select COM Port” box.
- Click “Test.”
A successful connection will show a “Port Status: OK” message.
- Click “OK” and then “Save.”
Your VCDS for XP system is now ready. You can connect to your vehicle and begin diagnostics.
If you encounter persistent issues, consult the Ross-Tech website for further troubleshooting or contact their support team for assistance. Remember to have your PC connected to your vehicle when seeking support.
