You have repaired your VCDS 22.3.1 clone. Now, keep it alive. Ross-Tech actively tries to kill clones. Do not help them.
Before concluding that your interface is truly bricked, refer to this checklist based on community experiences:
The interface cannot connect to newer vehicle modules. 2. Common Failure Points in Cheap Clones
Some clones (especially the ATmega162 + FTDI variants) need their FTDI chip reprogrammed to restore the correct USB descriptors.
An extra-quality clone is one that never needs repair again. Here’s how:
Find the 6 or 10-pin ISP header on the PCB.
The USB connects, but the software cannot detect the interface.
: Many high-quality clones require a specific "Loader" (e.g., Loader 9.2 or Kolimer) to bypass license checks. If the cable is deactivated, these loaders often include a firmware updater or "reflash" utility that resets the EEPROM to clear the deactivation flag. Firmware Force-Update
Here is the professional-level repair plan, focusing on the methodology used by repair kits that contain tools for AVR/FTDI electronics.
Keep your diagnostic software on a machine without active internet to avoid "silent" updates.
The interface relies on stable 5V and 3.3V power rails. Cheap capacitors often fail, causing the microcontroller to behave erratically.
If the test passes, perform a quick Auto‑Scan on a known vehicle to confirm full functionality.
Always verify the legality of using diagnostic clones in your country. The author does not endorse copyright infringement or the use of unauthorised diagnostic tools in a commercial setting.