K-line test?

[sierra055]

Hey guys, just wondering.... is there anyway you can test the K-line?
I understand there was a problem with the K-line in some MK4 vehicles and I would like to test mine before I fork out $$$ for VAGTacho software and cable.

I tried it using my VAG-COM cable and it didn't work, but I can query the instrument controller in VAG-COM. In the VAGTacho software it just says USB K-Line interface not found.

[Bug_racer]

Only early Golf 4's ran k-line , if you cant connect with any ecu's pull your stereo out , Ive found some stereo's interfere with k-line signal

[Jmac]

Thats correct aftermarket stereos can do , and in actual fact can send a live down you vag com cable and fry your laptop!!!!!!!!
Careful with that one!!
JMac

[qsilverza]

lol that would be awesome !

[h100vw]

http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/aftermarket-radio.html

[sierra055]

Very interesting! I knew there was a problem with aftermarket radios and the harnesses being hacked up, but being a good boy I used an ISO adapter.
I'll check it tomorrow as per the VAG-COM link there.

Thanks guys!

[fuzion]

iso adapter will still cause issues
you will need to cut one wire or swap them around from memory on most..

[sierra055]

Hmmm... no dice unfortunately.
I tested it with a multimeter first, and no surprise had just under 12v on the line.
I removed the stereo and checked the adapter as per the VAG-COM FAQ and there was nothing connected to pin3 on that connector. I even removed that pin and taped it back from the connector to be sure.

[fuzion]

i reversed one of the cables i cant remember which. the iso plugs here (Some of them) have issues so you will still get the kline problem ..

disconnect it and see if vag com works and then if not maybe i thin cut the yellow one or disc just the yellow and swap with the red (sounds weird i know as ones perm 12v and other is acc only) .. I THINK .. if i saw it infront of me i would remember lol

as said tho, some plugs only.. found this so far with 3 plugs!

[Treza360]

I'm pretty sure there's a thread about this in the how to sections on Vortex. Have a search on there for the right cable to cut/disconnect or swap.
Pretty sure it's come up on here before as well.
Somewhere in the bowels of the internet the solution has been documented.
Cheers,
Trent

[sierra055]

VAG-COM seems to work ok, I can query controller 17 for instance and it comes up, it's more this VAGTacho that seems to have the problem.

I removed the K-Line (grey w/ white trace) from pin3 in the iso adapter, even though there was nothing on the other side. Interestingly the voltage on that line was less than 1v, but pin 7 in the obd port is 11.5v

No dice with the radio fully unplugged either.

I'll have a look on Vortex, I did a quick search for K-Line but i'll spend a bit more time.

Thanks for all the suggestions