What do I need ? VCDS Software and Cable

[steveyoshi]

Someone has said Ne-Tech, others say OBD... many say Vagcom and Ross Tech VCDS.

I want to plug in and change those bits and bytes, clear codes and understand all about my car.

Love to have a fiddle... lol

Please help me gentleman.

[steveyoshi]

and any females too... sorry!

A little confused about what I need but I have only just started to learn today.

[kamold]

VAGCOM is now known as VCDS. From the same company - Rosstech in the US.
OBD is 'Onboard Diagnostics' and is the term for the physical port which these cables connect to.
Whilst the connector is standardised across the industry, only basic fault code scans are standard, the rest are proprietary per manufacturer.

Bottom line is you want a VCDS cable (the licence is in the cable itself). You only need the newer micro-can to support your vehicles:
Ross-Tech Store: VCDS License with Micro-CAN Unlimited VIN (most VW '05.5 to current)

[steveyoshi]

Thank you for that... very much appreciated.

So download the free software from the same website... buy this lead and plug and play... so too speak ? Lol

Is there any software licensing costs that are hidden. The website isnt so clear and confuses me a little, however I dont think there is.

[kamold]

Yes you can download the software for free, the license is in the cable itself. That way you can install VCDS on as many laptops as you like, just use the cable and activate it. There are no additional costs. Software upgrades for life.
If the cable is second hand, you can pay $99 to transfer the license to a new owner, only if you want direct support from Rosstech.
I have a second hand cable but haven't needed to pay that transfer cost yet as there is plenty of info online.
With that said their support is excellent should it be required.