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Connecting fault reader V.A.G 1551 and selecting functions — VW

Connecting fault reader V.A.G 1551 and selecting functions on VW: factory workshop procedure. Full factory text, tools and checks.

Workshop procedure for VW — the factory write-up, straight from real workshop data.

factory workshop text

📋 Procedure

Test prerequisites => Page
01-8
.

Notes:

The ABS function is switched off in the control unit during the self diagnosis.
The fault memory can be erased after successful interrogation and repair.

Unclip diagnostic connector cover on right of dash panel insert.
With ignition switched off connect V.A.G 1551 with cable V.A.G 1551/3 to diagnostic sockets.

V.A.G self diagnosis
HELP
1-Rapid data transfer 1)
2-Flash code output1)
Indicated on display

1) Is displayed alternately

Note:

No indication on display, check voltage supply at diagnosis connector.

=> "Current flow diagrams, Electrical fault finding and Fitting locations" binder

Notes:

Depending on the programme, additional operating information can be printed out by pressing the HELP key of V.A.G 1551.
The ⇒key is used for moving forward within the programme
The PRINT key is used for switching on the printer (warning lamp in key comes on).

Switch on ignition.
Press key -1- for "Rapid data transfer" operating mode.

Rapid data transfer
HELP
Enter address word XX
Indicated on display

Press keys -0- and -3-;
03 inputs the address word of the system (brake electronics) to be tested.

Rapid data transfer
Q
03 Brakes electronics
Indicated on display

Confirm input with Q key.

VW? This is the factory text for the model family — variants differ. Check it against your exact car. Check my car — free →

703907379A ABS/EDL BOSCH5 4062
⇒
and then following appears in the display:

The control unit identification number is displayed.

Allocation of control unit

=> Parts list

If the control unit identification number does not appear
=> Summary of functions.

Press ⇒key.

Rapid data transfer
HELP
Select function XX
Indicated on display

Note:

A list of the possible functions is printed out after pressing the HELP key:

List of functions · Page
01 - Interrogate control unit version / 02 - Interrogate fault memory / 05 - Erase fault memory / 06 - End output / 08 - Read measured value block / · 01-35

Currently only the listed functions can be used for the self diagnosis.

After pressing the ⇒key, the V.A.G 1551 programme returns to the start position.

Rapid data transfer
HELP
Select function XX
Indicated on display
(Function selection, e.g. 02 - interrogate fault memory)

Notes:

Rapid data transfer
HELP
Control unit does not answer!
If the adjacent fault information appears in the display, the possible causes of the fault can be printed out by pressing the HELP key.

Control unit does not answer!

Possible fault causes:

1. Incorrect address word entered.

2. Control unit not in diagnosis mode.

Ignition not switched on.
Engine speed greater than diagnosis maximum speed.

3. Diagnosis cable defective or incorrectly connected.

4. Wiring between control unit and diagnosis connector defective.

5. Fuse S123 (terminal 15) on additional plate position 5 defective.

Rapid data transfer
HELP
K-wire not switching to positive!
(Ignition must be switched on!)

Rapid data transfer
⇒
No signal from control unit!
Faults have occurred at the start or during the programme (external interference?)

Rapid data transfer
⇒
Fault in communication build-up

Check diagnostic wire as well as voltage supply and earth connection for ABS control unit (J104), Electrical check, =>Page
01-38
.
After rectifying the possible causes of the fault, again enter the address word 03 for "Brake electronics" and confirm with Q key.

Rapid data transfer
Tester sends address word 03
Indicated on display after entering the address word 03

703907379A ABS/EDL BOSCH5 4062
And then the following appears on the display:

The control unit identification number is displayed.

Press ⇒key.

Rapid data transfer
HELP
Select function XX
Indicated on display

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Workshop data on this page last updated 20 Sep 2026.