what do i need if i want to use VAG-COM ?

i see loads of cables and software on Ebay but it seems there are different versions of the cable, i have a Feb 04, '53 plate Fabia vRS

the software thats listed with them, is it an old version, trial version, pirated ???

ive looked but i cant find that many answers, thought there might have been a big thread explaining it all but i cant find it

Vag com will work with your car, you don't have to worry about the model/age.

The cheaper leads on Vagcom need a basic version to run them, so you won't have all the features of Vagcom and might find it won't do some of the newer models.

The genuine lead isn't cheap, but is worth the money if you add up how much a few hours at the dealer will cost.

i only want to use it on my car, nothing newer or other models etc, which lead would i need

Buy a proper one from a reseller such as ilexa or Gendan.

If you want to buy a cheapo lead from eBay then it will work on your car and you can use the trial version of VAG-COM free of charge. If you like it and the lead works ok then you can purchase a licence for $99. Alternatively you could purchase a genuine lead from the outset.

If you use an eBay lead with a genuine licence Ross Tech will only support the software and not the lead.

but isnt a lead a lead ?.....why spend loads on one when its only the same as one for a tenner from Ebay ?

and the trial version, what can it actually do, is it time limited ?

but isnt a lead a lead ?.....why spend loads on one when its only the same as one for a tenner from Ebay ?

No. A genuine cable has a key built-in to activate the software so you can use it on more than 1 PC. The genuine cable is also the only route to a CAN-capable solution for newer cars. It is also supported by Ross-Tech, and can be used with the latest version of software.

and the trial version, what can it actually do, is it time limited ?

No, it isn't limited.

Ross-Tech: VAG-COM: Function Table

The trial version is limited but not time limited.

is it as good as a generic OBDII code reader, as the leads are only £10-£15 so obviously this would be the cheaper option

VAG-COM will be infinately better than a generic reader, even in trial form.