97 Passat TDI Engine Fault Codes

I am trying to read 97 Passat's engine fault codes. My Bentley Manual talks about using a VAG 1551 or VAG 1552 SCAN TOOL. But what I wanted to ask is can I purchase an adequate substitute and from where to check my ECM codes. The reason I want to check my fault codes is that my 97 Passat surges on start up and then after bit check eng light comes on.

Also is there a program and adaptors that one can hook up to their lap top or computer to do the same job?

Thanks for your help!
Stephen
Houston TX
281-464-8198

I have 98 Jetta with AHU and
97 Passat with 1A and 91 Jetta with an AAZ and an 81
VW Pick Up that is engine less at this time but just
waiting for me to either put in a 1.6GTD or a 1.9 TDI
or that AAZ out of the 91 Jetta.

I am reading my Bentley Manual and it talks about a
VAG 1551 or VAG 1552 SCAN TOOL but I wanted to ask you
if one could purchase an adequate substitue to check
one's ECM codes/etc. Why do I want to check my codes?
Well my 97 Passat surges but only on start up and
after bit - check eng light comes on so I was wanting
to check to see what the ECM is sensing and or
signaling that might be amiss.

I would like to purchase something but do not want to
pay VW tooling prices.

What about a software program and electrical adaptors
that one can hook up from car to their won computer?
Is this a possibility?

Also have a 98 Jetta that I am rebuilding and need No
1 cylinder piston and rod whose cap reads 55 and
measures 4 and 164/1000 inches in length minus the rod
bearing installed.


Thanks for your consideration!
Stephen

Stephen, VAG-COM by Ross-tech.com is the answer. It is not the VW factory equipment. Affordable and relatively easy to use.

3rd, get a vag-com by ross-tech. If you go to a local auto parts store they may read the codes for free but a vag-com does so much more. Avoid the generic ones on ebay since they can't use the same software as a newer cable. The cables that self activate also hold their resale very well.

IIRC, you can buy an adapter cable from ross-tech to read the earlier VW ECM, too!

Tony