Loads to choose from on the 'bay, what should I look out for (and avoid)

This looks interesting for the bundled software, but is that a gimmick to cover a crap interface?

http://www.ebay.co.u...#ht_2499wt_1069

I already have a copy of Scantool.net which I have used with a borrowed cable.

I'm in the same boat. Looking for a diag cable and software but the ads all go on about OBD2 compliant, then the compatibility list shows every car EXCEPT Audi, VW, SKoda.

ELM cables will not work with VCDS-Lite

ELM cables will not work with VCDS-Lite

How much would you expect to pay for VCDS-Lite, and what cable is required?

How much would you expect to pay for VCDS-Lite, and what cable is required?

VCDS-Lite is free, but it isn't available for cars with CAN-Bus diagnostics. Which car do you have?

All versions of VCDS are very focused on VAG cars. That's why it's the diagnostic tool of choice on the VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda forums.

see http://ross-tech.com...-functions.html

Assuming your car does not require CAN-Bus, then you just need a cable. I recommend http://www.gendan.co...uct_VAGUSB.html or you can take your chances with a KKL cable from eBay

VCDS-Lite is free, but it isn't available for cars with CAN-Bus diagnostics. Which car do you have?

All versions of VCDS are very focused on VAG cars. That's why it's the diagnostic tool of choice on the VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda forums.

see http://ross-tech.com...-functions.html

Assuming your car does not require CAN-Bus, then you just need a cable. I recommend http://www.gendan.co...uct_VAGUSB.html or you can take your chances with a KKL cable from eBay

It's a 2006 TFSI

Thanks for the advice, perfect. £20 is not too painful, what features does the lite version forego? I don't want tpo mes about changing the default settings of the car in any way, simply read all DTCs and be able to view the engine sensors dynamically.

A 2006 TFSI is a CAN based vehicle. VCDS-Lite and the cable from Gendan will not work on that car. You need a VCDS License with MicroCAN interface or a VCDS License with HEX-USb+CAN interface.