The “direct throttle tweak” using VCDS or OBDEleven is a popular modification discussed in VW forums and Facebook groups, often touted for improving throttle response and making the car feel more lively. This tweak involves changing the “driving profile switchover” setting in the steering control unit. However, data suggests this modification doesn’t directly impact the throttle map but rather alters how driving modes transition.
This article delves into the “driving profile switchover” setting using OBDEleven and live data from a Golf Sportwagen S and an Atlas, both MQB platform vehicles. While the Golf Sportwagen S lacks comprehensive driving mode options, the Atlas provides a full range for testing. Adjusting the steering to “dynamic” in the Sportwagen using OBDEleven mimics the “sport” mode found in other VAG cars.
By default, the “driving profile switchover” is set to “Incremental, controlled over time.” Observing live data in the steering control unit (44) while switching between sport and normal modes reveals a sequential change. First, the “specified value” transitions from “dynamic” (sport) to “automatic” (normal), followed by the “actual value” making the same change. This gradual shift aligns with the “incremental” description.
Changing the “driving profile switchover” to “Direct, controlled over threshold value” and repeating the mode switch reveals a different behavior. Both the “specified value” and “actual value” change simultaneously from “dynamic” to “automatic.” This immediate transition corresponds to the “direct” setting.
The key takeaway is this setting only affects the speed at which driving mode changes are implemented, not the throttle mapping itself. The “direct” setting results in an instantaneous switch between modes, while the “incremental” setting introduces a slight delay.
Therefore, the perceived improvement in throttle response from the “direct throttle tweak” is likely a placebo effect stemming from the quicker driving mode transitions. The actual throttle map remains unchanged. The setting accurately describes its function: managing the “driving profile switchover” within the steering unit. It has nothing to do with altering the throttle response curve. While the “direct” setting might provide a more responsive feel due to the immediate mode changes, it doesn’t fundamentally enhance the engine’s performance.
