NHTSA ID Number: 10121068
Manufacturer Communication Number: VHW-16-02
TSB/Document Date: 2017-10-31
Summary
This document contains step-by-step instructions required to perform Windows 7 operating system recovery on VAS 6160X diagnostic tablet devices ONLY.
Service Information
Diagnostic Device Hardware & Windows®
Number: VHW-16-02
Subject: VAS Diagnostic Tablets - Windows 7 System Recovery
Instructions
Date: Jan. 22, 2016
Supersedes VHW-15-05 due to revised and new information.
Table of Contents
Section
1.0
Page
Introduction - MUST READ!
2
1.1
General Information
2
1.2
Process Overview
2
2.0
Additional Documentation
3
3.0
Preparation Checklist
3
4.0
Recovery
4
5.0
Post-Recovery Setup
6
5.1
Windows 7 Startup & Initial Setup
6
5.2
Windows Update Settings
11
5.3
Network Setup
12
5.4
Reinstall & Configure Offboard Diagnostic Information System
Service (ODIS Service) Diagnostic Software
13
5.5
Configure VAS 5054A Diagnostic Interface
13
5.6
Supplementary Setup & Function
14
5.7
Windows 7 Update Management & Internet Explorer Version
15
Notes:
• Please read these instructions carefully and in their entirety before performing any
procedures. If you do not understand these instructions, arrange to have a qualified person
perform these procedures.
• Heed all prerequisite requirements and notes, and follow all instruction steps in the Section
order given.
• Discard all printed copies of this document after use. Revised versions may be issued at any
time. Always check ServiceNet for the latest version.
Page 1 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
1.0 – Introduction
1.1 – General Information
This document contains step-by-step instructions required to perform Windows 7 operating system
recovery on VAS 6160X diagnostic tablet devices ONLY.
Due to their function as diagnostic tools, VAS diagnostic tablets are equipped with a proprietary Windows
7 operating system. Unlike their commercially-available Panasonic equivalents, VAS tablets utilize a
partitioned hard drive.
The Windows 7 recovery instructions provided here supersede any information contained in
Panasonic manuals that may be included with the tablet.
1.2 – Process Overview
Recovery
Windows 7 recovery files are located on the device’s hard drive partition. The Windows recovery
procedure is initiated to overwrite the existing (corrupt or malfunctioning) Windows 7 boot files with a copy
from the hard drive partition.
All data on hard drive C:\ is erased and replaced. The Windows 7 recovery data resident on the hard
drive partition is retained if recovery is required in future.
Post-Recovery Setup
The post-recovery setup steps described here are specific to the device’s function as a diagnostic tester
with installed ODIS Service diagnostic software.
Various Windows settings and configurations are necessary to ensure optimum function of the diagnostic
software in the dealership workshop environment.
Diagnostic Software and Security Certificate Reinstallation
The Windows 7 recovery process deletes the previously-installed ODIS Service license and certificate
files. As a result, the license and security certificate files that were originally obtained and saved as
instructed in the Installation Phase 1 instructions document must be on hand for reinstallation. A text
document containing the device’s hardware key should also be on hand.
If the license file was not saved, a replacement license must be requested from eShop prior to reinstalling
ODIS Service. If the security certificate was not saved, a replacement must be requested from eCRMs and
imported to ODIS Service prior to placing the device back into service.
IMPORTANT!
If the Windows - Panasonic CDs originally included with the device when new were retained,
please LOCATE and DISCARD THESE DISCS NOW! Inadvertent use of the Panasonic CDs for
recovery will completely erase the device-specific data and partitioned image, and install a
standard, non-partitioned Windows XP or Windows 7 operating system.
Page 2 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
2.0 – Additional Documentation
These instructions include references to the following Service Information (SI) documents that contain
additional instruction steps needed before returning the tablet to service. Locate and print as necessary.
SI Document
Document Titles
Category
Installation Phase 1 – Preparation, License & Security Certificate Process Instructions
ODIS Service
Installation Phase 2 - Software Installation & Configuration Instructions
Diagnostic
Device
Hardware &
Windows
VAS Diagnostic Device Computer Name Builder
VAS 5054A Diagnostic Interface - Bluetooth & EDIC Configuration
VAS 5054A Diagnostic Interface - USB Configuration
Additional Documentation steps completed. Proceed to Section 3.0 – below.
3.0 – Preparation Checklist
Complete the Preparation Checklist below. Additional checkboxes are provided throughout this
document to note the fulfillment of prerequisites, completion of sections etc..
Preparation Checklist
Print the additional documentation from ServiceNet as specified in Section 2.0.
Note the device type and model number.
Connect the A/C power adapter directly to the tablet.
If the device is capable of booting to Windows and starting ODIS Service: Finalize all saved
diagnostic sessions and transmit logs where applicable.
Disconnect the Ethernet (network) cable where applicable.
Switch the Wireless Operation Switch to the OFF position as illustrated -arrows-:
VAS 6160 & VAS 6160A
Upper left side behind SC/EX door
All Preparation steps completed. Proceed to Section 4.0 – Page 4.
Page 3 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
4.0 – Recovery
Prerequisites:
All devices removed from their base station (port replicator) where applicable.
Confirm: Ethernet cable DISCONNECTED & wireless operation switch in the OFF POSITION!
ATTENTION!
The A/C power adapter must be connected directly to the device during recovery. DO NOT
recover on battery power alone!
1. Turn on the diagnostic device.
2. When the Panasonic logo is displayed, quickly press the F2 key on the keyboard to enter the setup.
A password prompt appears.
3. Enter password: vas6160 (exactly as shown, lower case, no spaces)
4. Press the keyboard (or onscreen keyboard) Enter key:
(cont.)
Page 4 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
5. Use the right and left arrow keys to select the Exit tab:
6. Using the up and down arrow keys, select either:
Repair Your Computer OR
Recovery Partition
as applicable. Press the Enter key to continue:
After the Enter key is pressed, the system recovery starts. After approximately 2 minutes, the message
“System will be recovered” is displayed.
7. Press the 2 key, then press the Enter key to continue:
……
• Allow 30 – 90 minutes for device recovery (device-dependent).
• The progress window may appear to stall at 99% - 100%. Please be patient!
• When complete, the system will automatically reboot and display a series of automatic setup,
registry and service screens followed by the initial Windows setup screen.
Recovery steps completed. Proceed to Section 5.0 - Page 6.
Page 5 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
5.0 – Post-Recovery Setup
5.1 – Windows 7 Startup & Initial Setup
Note:
The initial language selection made in Step 1 below cannot be changed after the device is placed in
service. Avoid having to repeat the recovery process by selecting the language carefully!
1. If the following Windows setup screen appears, carefully scroll down and select My language is
English and select Next: …otherwise, skip to Step 2.
2. Confirm the regional settings, time/currency and keyboard layout as illustrated, and then select Next:
(cont.)
Page 6 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
3. If the license terms and conditions are displayed, accept by checking the appropriate boxes and
click Next: …otherwise skip to Step 4.
4. Set the Time Zone, Daylight Saving Time, Date and Time as applicable to your location. Click Next:
• Various settings are saved and the device automatically reboots to the Windows desktop.
• For convenience, the device can now be returned to its base station if desired (not mandatory).
• In all cases the A/C power adapter must remain connected for the following procedures. The
USB mouse and keyboard should also remain connected where applicable.
Page 7 of 17
© 2016 Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Volkswagen
Group of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this
document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
Service Information
5.1.1 – Delete Non-Applicable Information
The Windows 7 desktop may include documents that are not applicable to the -US/CDN- market. If
present as described below, please delete these documents as follows:
1.
From the Windows desktop: Locate two document shortcut icons entitled:
- 💯【Conta.ct us for Support Directly】If you met any...
- 🔥🔥🔥【2026 AUTEL FLAGSHIP MK900BT MK900-BT, NEW...
- 🚗【3000+ ACTIVE TESTS (50➡3000+), SAME AS MS...
- 🚗【40+ HOT SERVICES FOR 150 MAKES (28+➡40+)】Full...
- 🚗【OE ALL SYSTEM DIAGNOSE, AUTO SCAN 2.0: SCAN LICENSE...
- 【TURN OFF CEL】 This AL319 car scanner diagnostic tool...
- 【EXTENSIVE APPLICATION】 Autel AL319 Compatible with...
- 【FOR END USER & DIYERS】 This error code reader AL319 is...
- 【USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN】 This OBD2 scanner and check...
- 【HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES】 12 months war.ranty from the...
Last update on 2026-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If the PDF is very large, it may not load in the preview below.
Some older TSBs had multiple PDFs — visit the NHTSA Website to view all PDFs.
If the TSB PDF does not show, download or view it on the NHTSA Website.
Click on the (+) Plus Sign
Then Click on Associated Document(s)
Search NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Investigations
View Latest Vehicle Investigations
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Complaints
View Latest Vehicle Complaints
TSB/Document ID: VHW-16-02
Replacement Service Bulletin Number:
MFR Communication Date: 2016-01-22
MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:
Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NHTSA Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
MFR Component System:
MFR Component Subsystem:
Previous TSB | Next TSB |
- Stay Updated with Lifetime Access: This obd2 scanner includes lifetime free software updates for all app service functions. With a single payment, enjoy full access to diagnostics, reset tools, and maintenance features — zero subscription fees. A budget-friendly choice for weekend mechanics, home car owners, and DIYers, supporting vehicles from 1996 onward. Come to us with your VIN to check compatibility.
- Full Bidirectional Control/Active Tests & Stable Wireless Connectivity: This car code reader features full bidirectional control, allowing you to send commands to the vehicle's ECU for active tests on components such as fuel pumps, injectors, A/C clutches, windows, sunroofs, and more. This car scanner diagnostic tool helps DIYers quickly diagnose and test vehicle parts, cutting down troubleshooting and repair time. With BT 4.0 wireless connectivity, you can enjoy cable-free diagnostics up to 33 feet. Stand in your garage and test windows, wipers, or even engine components—all without needing to move around your car.
- Portable Car Scanner with 26 Special Functions: Scheduled vehicle maintenance with the A30M car diagnostic scanner can keep your vehicle in peak condition and save you big on dealership trips. The XTOOL A30M obd2 scanner diagnostic tool features essential reset and relearn functions, such as Oil Reset, EPB Reset (Electronic Parking Brake Release), SAS, ABS Brake Bleeding, Throttle Body Relearn, Injector Coding, Crank Sensor Relearn, Headlight Adjustment, and Tire Size Reset. Note: Service functions may vary by vehicle model – check compatibility beforehand!
- Wide Compatibility CAN FD & FCA
Autoauth: This obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is compatible with over 85+ car brands from the U.S., Europe, and Asia, providing extensive coverage through a BT connection with your smartphone or iPad. Now upgraded to support the latest protocols, it includes FCA
AutoAuth access for Chrysler
, Jeep
, Dodge
, and Fiat
(2018+), and supports CAN FD for GM (2020+) models, giving you greater access to newer vehicles and systems. Note: The FCA
AutoAuth account is not included with the device. Users must register and pay separately through the official FCA
AutoAuth website to access diagnostic functions for vehicles that require it. - Up to 8 Live Data Streams Graphing – Real-Time Graphing for Deeper Insight: This car scanner supports up to 8 live data streams simultaneously with intuitive, real-time graphing. Gain comprehensive insights into your vehicle’s performance, making it easier to spot issues, detect trends, and make informed diagnostic decisions with confidence.
- Comprehensive OBD2 Scanner with 16 Resets: The XTOOL D5S car code reader and vehicle reset tool provides an advanced diagnostic solution with 16 commonly needed reset functions, including Electronic Parking Brake Reset (EPB Reset), SAS, BMS Reset (Battery Test), Throttle Body Relearn, TPMS Reset, ABS Bleeding, Injector Coding, Gearbox Match, Suspension Adjustment, Headlight, Window Initialization, Crank Sensor Relearn and more. Equipped with CAN FD Protocol and FAC AutoAuth, the D5S obd2 scanner diagnostic tool ensures compatibility with a broad range of modern vehicles, allowing users to address common maintenance needs quickly. NOTE: Please Check the Compatibility before ordering.
- 4 Main System Car Scanner & Full OBD2 Diagnostics: The XTOOL D5S car code reader is ideal for home mechanics, DIYers, and professionals, providing access to Transmission/Engine/ABS/SRS systems to read DTCs, Live data can be displayed in text or up to 4 PID data graphs, along with full OBD2 diagnostics to check the engine light on, other obd2 issues and routine maintenance. This car diagnostic scanner ensures you can keep your vehicles in top condition, avoiding costly repairs or unexpected breakdowns. NOTE: Some vehicles display three systems after connection because the transmission and engine of some vehicles are integrated into one.
- Check Engine Code Reader & Real-Time Engine Monitoring: Whether you're a car owner, a DIYer, or run a repair shop, the XTOOL D5S obd2 scanner diagnostic tool makes engine diagnostics fast and frustration-free, reading and explaining trouble codes in seconds—no confusion. Check live data like fuel trim, 02 sensor voltage, RPM, and coolant temp to pinpoint mis~fires, rough idle, or sensor issues. After repairs, simply use the D5S check engine code reader and reset tool to turn off the check engine light and confirm the problem’s fixed—saving time, money, and unnecessary shop visits. - Note: If the check engine light comes back on, it indicates the original problem still exists.
- Portable Car Scanner for ABS and SRS: XTOOL D5S gives you peace of mind when ABS or airbag warning lights come on. It reads and clears ABS codes to help you fix brake sensor, traction control, or wheel speed issues, and supports ABS bleeding after repairs like caliper or master cylinder replacement. For airbag systems, it scans and clears SRS codes related to airbags, seatbelt tensioners, and crash sensors. Whether you're doing repairs at home or running a small shop, the D5S is a cost-effective solution for safety diagnostics. Note: If a fault code returns after clearing, it usually means the issue hasn’t been fully resolved. Please check the compatibility before ordering.
- Transmission Warning Light ON? Here’s the Transmission Diagnostic and Reset Tool You Need: The XTOOL D5S is more than just a basic car scanner—it’s an easy-to-use transmission diagnostic tool. From rough shifts to slipping gears, the D5S lets you read and clear transmission trouble codes, monitor real-time TCM data, and perform transmission resets after fluid changes or repairs. Whether you’re a hands-on car owner or a pro running a busy shop, this OBD2 scanner with transmission functions helps you catch problems early—saving you time, money, and future headaches.. Note: Clearing fault codes is equivalent to a reset on some vehicles, but not all. For help, contact XTOOL Tech Support.
- Top Reasons to Choose the D7S OBD2 Scanner: XTOOL D7S car scan tool, an upgrade of XTOOL D7, offers comprehensive features for automotive technicians, workshops, and DIY enthusiasts 1. Upgraded Hardware: 2+64GB memory, rear camera, intuitive interface, foldable bracket 2. Complete Diagnostics: FCA
Autoauth, OE-level all system scan, 39+ maintenance services, 4K+ bidirectional, CANFD/DoIP protocol 3. Advanced Capabilities: ECU c0ding, PMI functions 4. Wide Compatibility: Support 10,000+ models, covering 99% vehicle brands 5. Multi-language: Available in 22+ languages, No IP Restrictions 6. 3-Year Updates: Save 300 bucks on software updates for the latest features and optimizations - 2026 Upgraded D7S Car Scanner Features: The newly 2026 D7S V2.0 scanner for car brings exciting features for advanced vehicle diagnostics and enhanced user experience 1. FCA
AutoAuth: Now supports FCA
SGW module for Chrysler
, for Jeep
, for Dodge
(2018+), for Fiat
(2017+), enabling faster vehicle communication without gateway restrictions 2. PMI (Offline ECU Pr0gramming): Allows for Ford
, for Lincoln
, and for Mazda
ECU pr0gramming for new modules 3. Optimized Diagnostic Report 2.0: Personalized reports with logos and customer info for auto shops. Note: Compatibility varies by cars, please check before order - 39+ Services/Resets/Adaptations/Relearns/Calibrations: XTOOL D7S full system car scanner diagnostic tool tackles 99% of common car issues through its 36+ special functions, including Oil Reset, EPB, SAS, BMS, Throttle Reset, Injector C0ding, ABS Bleed, TPMS Reset, Power Balance, etc and also covers specific-vehicle functions like Crank Sensor Relearn, ABS Initialization, Cylinder Power Balance, Fuel Trim Reset, Idle Relearn etc. This car diagnostic scanner enhances efficiency, making repairs and maintenance hassle-free. Tip: DO NOT for All vehicles, please check compatibility first
- Cost-effective ECU C0ding Scan Tool for Specific Brands: Enhance your vehicle's performance with XTOOL D7S! This obd2 scanner all systems bidirectional offers advanced capabilities at an affordable price, supports online for BMW
, for Benz and offline for BENZ, for MIT, along with PMI functions for Ford
, for Mazda
, and for Lincoln
. Ideal for technicians and DIY enthusiasts, this automotive scanner diagnostic tool optimizes vehicle performance and enhances the driving experience. Note: Not for all cars and modules, please send car VIN to check the compatibility before purchase - OE All System Diagnostic & 8 Pids Graphing: XTOOL D7S is a comprehensive all system bi directional obd2 scanner that delivers dealer-level diagnostics, completely controlling over your vehicle’s performance and health. This automotive scan tool can read and clear DTCs, view live data and ECU information, retrieve freeze frames, and perform active tests and full obd2 functions. This bi-directional scan tool can can identify your vehicle's make, model, and year information with just one click and show up to 8 PIDs live data with options for CSV viewing, playback, and recording for in-depth analysis. It is easy-to-use for both professionals and beginners, helping pinpoint issues efficiently
Last update on 2026-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.




