VOL-FCR software and connector cables advice needed (2024)

I'm looking into collecting an assortment of test equipment for older Volvos before they all disappear.
I realise from reading on line here that for older ( pre<98) they run on a different diagnostic software to VIDA for (post>99) cars.

I already have a Vida/Dice unit clone as recommended from here (although still working to get 2014A version to work, 2012A is working so far).

Now looking into VOL-FCR software and the connector cable you need to connect the computer to the OBD2 port. I know it has to be a particular one, but I need either very clear specifics (and/or source) for one someone has bought and knows works, or very clear details on what cable to buy. I understand it is a Volkswagen (?) VAG-COM cable, but has to be a particular variant. I have seen acronyms like KL or KKL required, but what makes them different to other models? Is it pin-out configurations that work for Volvos also?

Finally any directions for VOL-FCR source for little or no money that should work? What are the requirements for running the software? Does it need XP Pro or can it run in XP mode on Windows 7 Pro? any advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Neil.

Vag com kkl cable and vol-fcr software can be found on ebay for around 20$.It is for '96-'99 s,v,c70 models.

It is for all modules in the car and if you have motronic 4.4 engine management,you can also read and clear codes from engine module.If you have motronic 4.3 or jetronic it will not work for engine codes.
It clears service light,read & clear instrument cluster,srs,abs,transmission,power seats,immobiliser codes.
It will work with win xp and on com1 port ONLY.It can have serial to obd II or usb to obd II cable.

I'm not sure for win7.

http://www.midwest-abs.com
Simplycleanpowerwash.com

1996 850 Platinum Wagon. ARD Green Tune, OBX.-Gone
1998 s70 ARD tune, EST exhaust, SE/R interior.
1999 s70 Plain Jane.
2000 s70 GLT
2014 Ram
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

A cracked version of VOL-FCR is all over the P2P sites and the VAG-COM cable is around $15.00 on eBay. I think I have seen some of the cables that include VOL-FCR. VOL-FCR will reset the service light.

I did find that you need to be careful with VOL-FCR though on the '99+ cars. Careful as in don't even plug it in. I think I managed to corrupt the programming on my ECU on the '99 when I told VOL-FCR it was a '98 with a Motronic 4.4 and then tried to interrogate some of the subsystems. I had to get my immobilizer codes cloned into another module to get the car to reliably start.

...Lee

Thanks for the replies guys.

Looking on Ebay, the only FCR software I can find is version 1.3 using a OBD2 cable and RS232 cable which is for serial port connections?
I see newer versions of FCR 1.7 and newer on free sites, but I am always wary of using these sites as the have loads of adware and other stuff on them to cause problems with your computer. Is there a site someone has used that they found to be 'safe' to download from?

Is there any advantage of using ver 1.3 v's ver 1.7 or newer?

The web sites selling 1.3 version only state use of Windows up to XP. Can it run on newer versions like Win 7?

Using a Vag-com KKL cable it has a USB connector. Does it work with any version of Vol-fcr or does it only work with newer versions?

Thanks,

Neil.

Vol fcr 1.3 is older version and can only read & clear the codes while 1.7 is a better and can display live data.

Whatever cable you get,serial or usb,it must be connected on com1 port to make it work.

The P2P sites are dangerous but if you are careful to virus scan everything before you do anything with it you should be OK. I run Linux for everything Internet related so I don't much worry about it but even then I scan everything I download under Linux before I move it to a Windows machine and then scan it again before I execute anything. I haven't had any problems with having the port open to share the file back and I typically give it back at a 2 or 3 to 1 ratio.

The RS-232 cable version of VAG-COM is pretty worthless these days since I haven't seen a laptop with an actual serial port in 10 years. I have both a serial version and an USB version of the cables and the USB version works fine with the older VOL-FCR so long as I have the USB port emulate Com-1.

...Lee

Thanks Misha and Lee for your guidance as usual!

Version 1.7 it is then to look out for, and as the computer is for nothing other than car stuff hopefully no issues there. It runs Win 7 Pro, but do have XP emulator and VMware on there.

I've read issues about software conflicts on using Com1 port. Is this an issue if you only use one software at a time (still have not got Vida2014A running)? This port seems to be an issue. Why do manufacturers only fit one then!? Don't expect an answer to that.

I see loads of Vag-com cables out there. Are there any sources you have found better than others, or issues to be aware of when buying?

Really appreciate the help.

Neil.

I just buy the cables from the cheapest Chinaman and they have both worked as advertised. There isn't the big disparity in quality like you find with DICE units between vendors as far as I know.

...Lee

Thanks Lee. Good to know, I'll look one up and as you say they are cheap (<$10) even with shipping in some cases!

Neil