To nemohm,
(by the way, sorry I called you ironically "Martin" - as in Martin Vogel, and I'll leave it to that)

as a matter of fact someone else posted in a different thread an EBay "search" link about VAG405. I don't know, but for some reason I am somewhat reluctant to bid on/purchase an item that ships from Hong Kong.
In case of a dispute, the headache and aggravation may amount to more than just losing the sum paid in advance for the item.
I'm neither racist, nor discriminatory toward a certain person, or a group of people. However, I prefer to bid on items from people that can be traced easier by EBay in case of a mishap.
I'll keep digging online and see what more options I come across.

George,
at this point I'm just sort of threading water, or just getting informed. I am contemplating getting an OBD reader or the VAG-COM, but this isn't a priority as the car has no codes (knock on wood/my head to stay this way).
I will consider buying the Harbor Freight one (that's what you meant by HF, I would assume?), unless I find a better alternative.
Considering what hxgaser said, I doubt I will ever recode anything as I'm not really into or pro chipping/remodding cars. Reading the faulty codes and ability to reset the MIL and service lights probably it will be all I need.
Nevertheless, whatever option I find suitable for my needs, that reader should come with a "2x2/2-way" adapter cable that can plug in the OBD connector(s) just as the 2 prongs you talk about for older models.


Lastly, although I have to disagree with Bob that you can find a GOOD laptop for under $ 200 (unless at a yard sale buying someone else's junk), I may look into that as well.

Thanks guys. I'm much obliged.

 

Chefro,

I won't say much more on the laptop, except to say that at the boneyard, the mech had the VAGCOM plugged into the PRE 96, with the 2 or however many prong connector, and the computer was about 50 feet away at the end of a CAT5 cable.

It doesn't require a laptop, just a computer.

Cheers,

George

 

hm.....this is really something it can be researched.
I know that USB over cat5 cable is possible via an adapter. This would take care of the computer side.

I would have to figure out exactly what I need for the OBD side.
You gave me a great idea worth looking into. I believe I still have a home-made 100 ft Cat5 cable. I wouldn't need one that long to reach in the backyard with it.
And according to many, probably the free VAG-CoM software might suffice my needs.

Thanks, George.