VCDS 26.3.0 Update: News & Features

The latest German VCDS version 26.3.0 is available, with updated data.

In your customer account under...
https://shop.dieselschrauber.org/en/account.php

You can find updated installation packages for your VCDS diagnostic software to download.


Changes:
• New feature: Support for the 2027 model year.
• New feature: Direct access to 4-digit ECU addresses via Autoscan.
• Improvement: Query for missing control units/addresses when the component lists are incomplete.
• Improvement: Control unit/address list expanded.
• Improvement: Measurement data for clutch wear in DQ200 (0AM) transmissions.
• Control unit documentation (texts, label files, and ODX/ASAM data sets) has been expanded/updated.

The big news is here: With VCDS Beta 26.5 (and higher), VCDS can, under certain conditions, generate and process the tokens required to unlock SFD-locked control units online and in real-time via a data connection to the VW server!

No more cumbersome manual token creation through third-party portals – the entire SFD workflow now runs directly within VCDS.


These are the requirements:
• Original, licensed, and registered HEX-V2 or HEX-NET.
(Professional version without limitations, purchased after January 1, 2023).
• A paid SFD upgrade will be available for older interfaces.
• One-time registration and identity verification with Ross-Tech.
(Photo ID required – as mandated by EU law).

Important: SFD subscriptions are personalized for individual natural persons, not for companies. The entire process is logged (as required by EU regulations). The interface must be registered to the same person as the SFD registration.


How will it work?
Connect the HEX-V2 or HEX-NET interface.
2. Start VCDS → Applications → "Start SFD Session".
3. Enter the SFD password → The interface will be authorized.
4. Perform a full vehicle scan, then unlock control unit 19 (Gateway) via "SFD → Online Unlock".
5. Unlock the desired control unit – valid for 90 minutes.

SFD discussion and news in the diesel mechanic community:
https://community.dieselschrauber.org/en/viewtopic.php?t=31009&start=16


Diesel Mechanic Shop – Ready for SFD.
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Our shop is currently being prepared for the new SFD infrastructure.
As soon as Ross-Tech releases the registration and subscription processes for distributors, we will be ready to go and will be able to offer SFD subscriptions to our customers.


Windows 11 and HEX-USB+CAN or MicroCAN.
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Seit dem April Update von Windows 11 werden die (jahrzehntealten) Treiber von HEX-USB+CAN und MicroCAN von Windows nicht mehr unterstützt. More information:
https://community.dieselschrauber.org/en/viewtopic.php?t=31988

- SFD registration system completed.
- Diesel mechanicSFD checker completed.