u/jrw16

Hey all, new Audi owner here. I just ordered a HEX-V2 and intend to use VCDS for diagnostics and troubleshooting, but I don't have a Windows laptop. I do have a Windows desktop, but I saw that several folks here had success running VCDS on Apple Silicon with a Windows VM. My question is has anyone done so using UTM? I'd rather not pay for Parallels since VDCS is the only thing I'd use it for and so far UTM looks like the best free VM for my use case as I want something lightweight. I see no reason it shouldn't work, but thought I'd ask. Once my V2 comes in, I'll give it a go and update the post

Hey all, recently purchased a 2020 Q5 with 55k on the clock. I’m pretty handy with a wrench and decent with troubleshooting issues, so I’d like to DIY as much maintenance as possible. After some research, I’ve found quite a few different options for scan tools and software, so I’d like to know what the best option is for me. I just want to be able to read or clear any and all codes and read data from the car’s various modules. I don’t mind a steep learning curve, but the simpler the better as I’m a new dad and have limited time, and I want to keep the cost as low as possible while giving me the features I need. Should I go for VCDS and an AliExpress scanner/dongle, OBDEleven, or something else entirely? For reference, I don’t have a Windows laptop. I do have a Windows desktop and a Macbook that I could run a Windows VM on, though. Again, just want the simplest/lowest cost solution that will let me do my maintenance and troubleshooting. If it lets me tinker with stuff that’s just a nice bonus, but not a must

Edit: I ended up getting some more oil and doing a spill and fill. It’s at the correct level now and she’s driving great!

Just bought a mint 2020 with 54k on the clock from a Volkswagen dealer. When I checked the oil level, the car says it’s high. I’m not sure how much it’s overfilled as there’s no dipstick of course, but the VW dealer performed the service which included an oil change about 150 miles before I bought it, so presumably a trained VAG tech did the work. So, do I just drain it and put the correct amount of fresh oil in it for peace of mind, or send it until my next oil change (I’m doing 5k intervals btw)? Heavily leaning towards a spill and fill unless you guys tell me otherwise

Sidenote: I’m gonna DIY as much maintenance as possible on this car. What oil do you guys recommend? Obviously I’ll use a 0W-20 full synthetic made for Euro cars, but is one brand better than any other? I’ve used Mobil 1 for most of my vehicles over the years but I want the best for the longevity of my car and I’m willing to pay for it
Edit: after more research, I might switch to 5W-40 weight actually. I live in a warm climate and much prefer longevity to fuel economy

Hey all, I’m looking at buying a 2018-2022 Q5 with the 2.0T. Most in my budget have around 70k on the clock and I know at that mileage it’s very likely that it will need engine mounts and/or a water pump reseal (or new pump). Aside from service records, can I easily look at the engine mounts or water pump without removing a lot of parts to see if either has been done?