VCDS versions 17.2 through 17.5 introduce significant improvements and bug fixes, enhancing user experience and functionality. A key feature is the introduction of “Experimental” coding descriptions, offering access to raw coding data for newer vehicle models. This article explores these updates and their implications for VCDS users.
Experimental Coding Data in VCDS
The increasing complexity of modern vehicles has made it challenging to manually review and verify all coding descriptions. To address this, VCDS now offers access to “Experimental” or “Raw” coding data. This data, sourced directly from the control modules, provides insights into coding options not yet officially verified.
When only experimental data is available for a module, VCDS displays a warning and prompts the user to confirm its use. Accessing this data opens the Long Coding Helper with a distinctive yellow background, signifying the experimental nature of the information.
If both experimental and verified coding data exist, VCDS allows users to choose between them. Selecting the verified data displays the familiar light turquoise background in the Long Coding Helper. Opting for experimental data triggers an additional warning before presenting the information with the yellow background. This clear visual distinction ensures users are aware of the data source.
Example of Long Coding Helper with experimental data.
Example of Long Coding Helper with verified coding data.
Example of the warning message before displaying experimental data.
Additional Updates and Bug Fixes
Beyond experimental coding data, these beta versions include:
- New ROD Data Set (DS274): This updated data set incorporates improvements and includes the experimental coding data.
- Progress Indicator on Select Button: A progress indicator now appears when retrieving MQB/MLBEvo subGVLs.
- Bug Fixes: Several bugs have been addressed, including issues with saving large ADP channels, searching for IDE numbers, equipment number limitations, communication drops after long coding, and DTC clearing errors with BRP dual ECUs. These fixes enhance the stability and reliability of VCDS.
Conclusion
The introduction of experimental coding data in VCDS versions 17.2 – 17.5 provides valuable access to emerging coding options for the latest vehicle models. This feature, coupled with the new ROD data set, progress indicator, and numerous bug fixes, significantly enhances the diagnostic and coding capabilities of VCDS, empowering users to stay at the forefront of automotive technology.
