Many users encounter the frustrating “Vcds Lite Port Does Not Exist” error when trying to diagnose their vehicles. This guide provides a step-by-step solution to correctly configure your VCDS Lite cable and resolve this issue. Often, the problem isn’t a faulty cable, but incorrect driver installation and COM port assignment.
Installing the Correct Drivers
First, ignore the software and drivers included with most inexpensive VCDS Lite cables. These often use an FTDI chip. Instead, download the latest FTDI drivers directly from the official FTDI website (http://www.ftdichip.com/FTDrivers.htm). This ensures compatibility and optimal performance.
Important: Choose a specific USB port for your cable and consistently use it. Switching USB ports can alter the COM port assignment and lead to connection issues.
Configuring the COM Port
After installing the correct drivers, follow these steps to configure the COM port:
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Open Device Manager: Navigate to
Start > Control Panel > System and Security > System. Then click on “Device Manager” in the left pane. You can also search “device manager” in the windows search bar. -
Connect Your Cable: Plug your VCDS Lite cable into your chosen USB port. A new device should appear under “Ports (COM & LPT)”. If not, it could be a driver installation issue so revisit that process again.
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Access Port Properties: Double-click the new USB Serial Port entry (or right-click and select “Properties”).
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Adjust Port Settings: Navigate to the “Port Settings” tab and click “Advanced.”
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Select COM Port: In the “COM Port Number” dropdown, choose a COM port between 1 and 4. COM2 is often recommended for VCDS Lite. If the selected port is already in use, Windows will typically reassign resources automatically.
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Apply Changes: Click “OK” to save the changes.
Setting up VCDS Lite Software
Download and install VCDS Lite from the official Ross-Tech website (http://www.ross-tech.com/).
Open VCDS Lite, go to “Options,” and select the COM port you configured in the previous steps (e.g., COM2).
Connecting to Your Vehicle
Important: Your VCDS Lite cable won’t be recognized by the software until it’s connected to your car with the ignition switched to the “ON” position (position II – engine doesn’t need to be running).
Try these connection methods:
- Connect the cable to the car’s OBD-II port, turn the ignition on, then connect the cable to your laptop.
- Connect the cable to your laptop, then to the car’s OBD-II port, and finally turn the ignition on.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “VCDS Lite port does not exist” error and successfully connect to your vehicle for diagnostics. If you continue to experience problems, double-check each step and ensure your cable is properly connected and your ignition is on.
