right then think i need to get my own cable with some tech support so im thinking i may get a proper vag com (as my experience with ebay copies has been baaaad!!!)

so which one do i need of mk1 oct and 03 S3?

And how much will it cost me?

ill be using an XP laptop with USB only.

cheers.

edit ive been nosing around the Ross Tech Website and i think i need

VAG-COM Software License $99

VCDS License with KEY-USB Interface $249

this correct? thats $348 which is approx £179?

Have you got cable ???If so justbuy the license. For $99

The other one is for Usb cable and license but is compatable with the CanBus system which is on the newer models

You don't need a license if you by a genuine ross-tech cable, as the cable has dongle licence built in.

If you want to cover all bases (current and future) get http://www.ross-tech.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=VCHUC&Category_Code=VAGCOM

I think the S3 has a mix of Canbus and K-line so your better of with the above one anyway.

Sorry I should have said third party cable ..........whoops

i did have 3rd party cable but gave up as i could never get it to work properly and brother bought it and sent it back in end. i fancy proper VAG COM cable to avoid grief and so ill have some good tech support.

would the one i mentioned work on an original S3 and Octavia as tbh i dought ill mess to much and plan on keeping my car for a long time.

You got pm

i did have 3rd party cable but gave up as i could never get it to work properly and brother bought it and sent it back in end. i fancy proper VAG COM cable to avoid grief and so ill have some good tech support.

would the one i mentioned work on an original S3 and Octavia as tbh i dought ill mess to much and plan on keeping my car for a long time.

The one you mentioned will defo work on the Octy (not sure on the S3 though due to it having bits of Canbus)