Vag Vcds Coding, also known as VAG-COM Diagnostic System coding, empowers you to customize and optimize your Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, or SEAT vehicle’s functions. This comprehensive guide by CARDIAGTECH.NET will unlock hidden features and personalize your driving experience, helping you achieve enhanced vehicle performance and personalized settings. Delve into the world of automotive customization with vehicle diagnostics and ECU coding, and discover the possibilities of OBD2 diagnostics.
1. Understanding VAG VCDS Coding
VAG VCDS coding involves using specialized software and a diagnostic cable to communicate with your vehicle’s electronic control units (ECUs). These ECUs manage various functions, from lighting and comfort features to engine performance and safety systems. By modifying the coding parameters within these ECUs, you can alter how the vehicle operates.
1.1 What is VCDS?
VCDS, or VAG-COM Diagnostic System, is a software package developed by Ross-Tech. It allows users to diagnose, troubleshoot, and modify various settings within Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) vehicles, including Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, and SEAT. It’s a powerful tool for both enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
1.2 Key Components for VCDS Coding
To perform VCDS coding, you will require the following components:
- Laptop: A Windows-based laptop or computer to run the VCDS software.
- VCDS Software: The official VCDS software from Ross-Tech.
- VCDS Cable: A specialized diagnostic cable that connects your laptop to the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
1.3 Safety Precautions and Best Practices
Before diving into VCDS coding, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and take necessary precautions:
- Battery Voltage: Ensure your vehicle’s battery is fully charged and stable to prevent interruptions during coding.
- Software Compatibility: Always use the latest version of the VCDS software to ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s ECUs.
- Backup Original Coding: Before making any changes, always back up the original coding values to revert to the default settings if needed.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Adhere to the instructions provided in this guide and the VCDS software to avoid errors or unintended consequences.
- Consult Professionals: If you’re unsure about any coding procedure, seek guidance from experienced VCDS users or automotive professionals.
2. Essential VAG VCDS Coding Modifications for Audi Vehicles
This section explores some popular and useful VCDS coding modifications for Audi vehicles. Please note that the availability of specific features may vary depending on your vehicle’s model, year, and equipment level. All coding is performed via Ross-Tech Vag-Com with USA factory settings. If you are outside the USA the stored values might vary. Also, other conventional vag-com units can be purchased to do these modifications. The process is probably somewhat the same.
2.1 Lighting Enhancements
2.1.1 Disable Amber Corner Lights
This modification disables the amber side marker lights, providing a cleaner, more European look.
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper
- Byte 10
- Submodule 0
- Bit 3 – Set to 0 to disable amber side markers (U.S. vehicles)
2.1.2 Enable Adaptive Brake Lights
This feature activates emergency brake flashing via turn lights and brake lights during hard braking, increasing visibility and safety.
- [46 – Comfort System]
- [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper
- Byte 8
- Bit 0 – Emergency Brake Flashing via Turn Lights active (1 = active)
- Bit 1 – Emergency Brake Flashing via Brake Lights active (1 = active)
2.1.3 Tail Lights on with Front DRLs
This modification enables the rear tail lights to illuminate along with the front daytime running lights (DRLs), enhancing the vehicle’s presence during the day.
- [Select]
- [09-Central Electric]
- [Coding – 07]
- [Long Coding Helper]
- Click on byte 2 and enable bit 7
Turns on rear tail lights DRLs during the day, for a more aggressive look.
2.1.4 Enable Coming Home/Leaving Home function DRL
- [Select]
- [09 Central electric]
- [Coding – 07]
- [Long coding helper]
- Click on byte 6 and disable bit 4
Leaves the low beams off when unlocking the car and just have the DRLs on when its dark outside, similar to some other Audis. Much cleaner look.
2.2 Convenience and Comfort Features
2.2.1 Disable Seatbelt Chime
This modification disables the audible seatbelt warning chime, allowing you to drive without the constant reminder if you choose not to wear your seatbelt.
Note: While this modification is possible, remember that safety should always be your priority.
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper
- Byte 0
- Bit 2-4 – Seat Belt Warning inactive
2.2.2 Enable Automatic Gear Selection Shown in DIS
This feature displays the selected gear (D or S) in the Driver Information System (DIS), providing clear indication of the transmission mode.
- [02 – Auto Trans]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Select “Single Gear Display” from top channel drop down menu
- Select “D on/S on” from New value drop down menu
2.2.3 Enable Double Disarm Beep
This modification adds a brief beep from the alarm siren when the car is disarmed, providing audible confirmation.
- [46 – Central Conv.]
- [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 63
- Add 4
2.2.4 Enable Remote Operation Windows and Sunroof
This allows you to open and close the windows and sunroof using the remote key fob.
- [46 – Cent. Conv.]
- [Coding – 07] -> [Long Coding Helper]
- Byte 2
- Bit 2 – Set to 1
2.2.5 Increase Radio Play Time After Car is Turned Off
This tweak extends the amount of time the radio will continue playing after the ignition is turned off.
- In the Hidden Menu: From the main screen select ‘onofftimer’, set ‘Standby delay’. The maximum value is 30 minutes.
2.3 MMI and Infotainment System Tweaks
2.3.1 Enable Hidden Menu in MMI
This unlocks the hidden menu in the Multi Media Interface (MMI), granting access to advanced settings and diagnostic information.
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 6 change 0 to 1
Use this hidden menu at your own risk. Caution: Keep away from the “Bootloader”
2.3.2 Enable Import CDs to MMI’s HD
This modification enables the ability to import CDs directly to the MMI’s hard drive.
- [Hidden menu] Main/Diagnose/Settings
- Import Media Set to 4 of 4 “Copy/Ripping”
2.3.3 Enable VIM on MMI (Video in Motion)
This allows you to play videos on the MMI screen while the vehicle is in motion.
Note: Enable VIM at your own risk and only in areas where it is legal. Safety should always be the priority.
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- [Advanced ID – 1A] Note 1st Serial number
- [Security Access] Enter Digits 6, 13, 10, 14, 11 of the 1st Serial number
- [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 48 Set to 255
- Reset MMI
2.3.4 Adjust Bluetooth Microphone Sensitivity
Fine-tune the sensitivity of your Bluetooth microphone for clearer calls.
- Hidden menu
- Diagnose Settings
- Mic sensiblity – choose -6db/0db/+6db
2.4 Performance and Driving Dynamics
2.4.1 Enable Lap Timer
This feature activates a lap timer function in the instrument cluster, allowing you to track your lap times on the track or during spirited driving. Shown in HUD- also enables shift light
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper
- Byte 1
- Bit 3 – Check the box for “Lap Timer active”
2.4.2 Set Audi Parking System – Switch OFF Speed
Adjust the speed at which the Audi parking system deactivates.
- [10 – Park/Steer Assist]
- [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 23
- Set to 20 (max value in km/h)
2.4.3 Change the Adaptive Cruise Control Preset Distance
Customize the default distance setting for your adaptive cruise control system.
- [Select]
- [13 Distance Regulation]
- [Adaptation – 10] –> channel 7
- Change from 0 to 1
- Reboot MMI
Will now have an option in your MMI under Car –> Driver assistance –> Adaptive Cruise Control to set which of the 4 preset distances your car will default to when you activate your ACC.
2.5 Other VCDS Coding Options
2.5.1 Disable rear side markers in US vehicles
- [Select]
- [46-Central Convenience]
- [Security Access] enter 16017
- [Adaptation – 10] –> channel 209 for left rear side marker
- Document your existing number should you need to re-enable rear side markers later
- Change existing number to 0
- Channel 210 for right rear side marker
- Document your existing number should you need to re-enable rear side markers later
- Change existing number to 32
2.5.2 Turn off parking brake when in park mode
- [Select]
- [53-Parking Brake]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Click the drop down channel menu
- Select the “Automatic parking brake for selector lever position P”
- Change to Not Activated
2.5.3 Disable/memorize/invert Start & Stop:
- module 09-Cent. Elec.
- enter Security Code (20113)
- Adaptation on Channel 34:
- subtract 4 to the value –> Start&Stop always disabled
- add 32 to the value –> memorize last status (the Start & Stop status at engine startup will be the one at last engine shutdown)
- test & save
In addition of these values, if you add 64 to the value, the Start & Stop button light will be reversed: off if Start & Stop is disabled, and on if Start & Stop is enabled
2.5.4 Operating Windows and Sunroof with Remote
This will allow enables remote closing of the windows and sunroof by holding the Lock button on the remote control. In addition, it adds an menu item in the MMI to optionally allow opening the front windows/rear windows/sunroof by holding the Unlock button on the remote.
- [46 – Cent. Conv.] -> [Coding – 07] -> [Long Coding Helper] -> Byte 2-> Bit 2
- Check “Comfort Operation: Remote Control active” box.
- Save
Windows and Sunroof will now close with long button press of Lock button on remote. To Open Front Windows and/or Rear Windows and/or Sunroof with long press of Unlock button on remote:
- Reboot MMI to make sure the menu item appears (press Menu, Big Knob, and Top Right Soft Button simultaneously)
- Use the New MMI Menu to Change MMI Settings to allow remote down
- MMI: [Menu]->[Car]->[Car Systems]->[Vehicle Settings]->[Central Locking]->[Long press to open windows] -> Set Front Windows, Rear Windows, Roof to “On”
2.5.5 A7/S7/RS7 Only: Close the trunk (a.k.a. boot) remotely using the key fob and/or interior trunk switch (and retain the opening feature)
Go to Module 46 (cent convenience), coding, long coding helper byte 2, bit 2 “Comfort operation: Remote control active” should be checked, so no need to change it, just confirm that it’s set.
Then got to module 6D (Trunk Electrics), security access and enter security code “12345”. Then still in Module 6D, click Adaptation, channel and there are 8 options for “Activation using rear lid. . .”. Change the two “number 4” settings to active.
2.5.6 Change the time before the heated seats auto-change from level 3 to level 2
When the heated seat is set to full (level 3) it will only stay on full power (level 3) for 10 minutes before automatically dropping to level 2. To increase (or decrease) the amount of time this takes, go to Module 08 (HVAC) -> Adaptation -> drop in down box select the option ‘time until heated seat stage withdrawal from 3-2’. Enter a new value. Save. The default is 10, which is 10 minutes. I set it to 15 minutes. Change it to zero to prevent it from auto-switching from level 3 to level 2. There is also an option for auto-changing from Level 2 to Level 1. This is disabled by default (set to zero.) If you want to enable this, enter a value in minutes.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Lowering Your Audi with VCDS
Here is information on how to lower you car 17mm, using VCDS. This method is an alternative to Lowering Links (which are great if you don’t have the electronic tools/would rather go the mechanical route), or H&R lowering module (which is also great, and allows for on-the fly adjustments vs. having to mess with car systems).
3.1 Important Safety Considerations Before Lowering
Before you begin, please read this disclaimer: I am not responsible for anything that these changes may cause, or if your car breaks, or if dealership finds out and denies your warranty if something goes wrong… Try this at your own risk.
3.2 Step-by-Step Instructions for Lowering
- Set your car to “Auto” mode (not dynamic, comfort, etc.). Make sure car is on level ground. Close doors. If any doors are opened during the procedure, it will be interrupted. Make sure your car is NOT in a towing or tire changing mode.
- Load up VCDS, go to Module 34 – Level Control
- Go to “10 – Adaptation”, take note of 4 values titled as “Body height front left wheel house edge” – mine were set to around 384 from factory.
- Take the values you noted above, and ADD your desired drop in millimeters (mm) to each value, write it down… So if your left front wheel was 384.5, your new value will be 401.5. Repeat for the other wheels. It is not critical to be 100% precise here, rounding the values is fine. Note that maximum Audi-approved drop is 17mm from what I’ve gathered. You can go lower, but if you go lower, you’re also affecting other systems, such as cameras, adaptive cruise, etc., so be careful.
Technically, if you want this procedure to be done properly, instead of taking existing values, you will measure all 4 wheels after completion of the step 7, and then add your drop value if desired. Suspension height values are measured from the center of the wheel to the edge of the fender.
- Go to Security Access, enter code provided on the following website, under VCDS section, item #3 (I’m not posting this directly to avoid spreading sensitive data, although it’s been posted on other forums in past) http://www.stemei.de/pages/coding/au…ng-des-aas.php
- You should get a message stating that security code has been accepted – if you don’t, something failed, stop doing what you’re doing
- Go to 04 – Basic Settings
*** IMPORTANT: Whatever you do, DO NOT select “Reset All Adaptations” – this is not undoable, and will require a visit to the dealer. ***
- Select “Activate Level Control”, hit “Go”, wait for it to complete (should only take a second, until it says “not running”).
- Select “Delete Calibration For Level Control”, hit “Go”, wait for it to complete, your car will throw a fault code and you will see an error message stating Air Suspension Malfunction – this is normal.
- Select “Start Up to Reference Level”, hit “Go”. This step will take about a minute, and your car will go up/down during the process (you’ll hear hissing noises). Wait for it to complete, until it says “not running”.
- Select “Go Back”, go to “10 – Adaptation” on the previous screen.
- Next you will need to enter new adaptation values for all 4 wheels. Select “Body height front left wheel house edge”, then enter new adaptation value, and hit “Do it”, then repeat for the other 3 wheels. I did it in the order the menu was arranged (FL, RL, FR, RR) – not sure if the order matters, but just in case. Each time you enter a value, you should get a message stating that it has been accepted.
- After you’re done entering adaptation for all 4 wheels, select “Go Back”, and return to “04 – Basic Settings” again.
- In basic settings, select “Calibrate Level Control” and hit go, it will take a few seconds. Wait for it to say “not running”. If you get an error during this step, you either missed a step, or something went horribly wrong.
- Select “Activate Level Control”, hit “Go”
- You’re done, now go to “02 – Fault Codes” and Reset codes.
4. Common VAG VCDS Coding Issues and Troubleshooting
While VCDS coding can be rewarding, you may encounter some common issues. This section provides troubleshooting tips:
4.1 Connection Problems
- Cable Issues: Ensure the VCDS cable is securely connected to both your laptop and the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
- Driver Installation: Verify that the correct drivers for the VCDS cable are installed on your laptop.
- Port Selection: In the VCDS software, confirm that the correct communication port is selected.
4.2 Coding Errors
- Incorrect Values: Double-check the coding values you are entering to avoid errors.
- Security Access: Some coding changes require security access. Ensure you have the correct security code for the specific ECU.
- Software Updates: Keep your VCDS software updated to the latest version to resolve compatibility issues.
4.3 Fault Codes
- Clear Fault Codes: After making coding changes, clear any resulting fault codes using the VCDS software.
- Persistent Fault Codes: If fault codes persist, research the specific codes to identify the underlying issue and take corrective action.
5. Advanced VAG VCDS Coding Techniques
For experienced VCDS users, advanced coding techniques can unlock even more customization options. However, these techniques require a deeper understanding of vehicle systems and should be approached with caution.
5.1 Adaptation Channels
Adaptation channels allow you to fine-tune various parameters within the ECUs, such as sensor calibration, engine settings, and comfort features.
5.2 Long Coding Helper
The Long Coding Helper provides a user-friendly interface to modify complex coding strings by presenting options in a more understandable format.
5.3 Security Access Codes
Security access codes are required to unlock certain coding functions. These codes vary depending on the ECU and vehicle model.
5.4 VCDS Logs
VCDS logs record all the coding performed on a vehicle which can be saved to a file. This is a great tool for reviewing and auditing coding modifications.
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8. FAQs about VAG VCDS Coding
Here are some frequently asked questions about VAG VCDS coding:
Q1: What vehicles are compatible with VAG VCDS coding?
VCDS coding is primarily compatible with Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) vehicles, including Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, and SEAT.
Q2: Can VCDS coding damage my car?
When performed correctly with the proper equipment and knowledge, VCDS coding is generally safe. However, incorrect coding can lead to malfunctions. Always back up original settings and follow instructions carefully.
Q3: Do I need to be a professional mechanic to perform VCDS coding?
While professional mechanics often use VCDS, enthusiasts can also perform coding with the right tools and knowledge. However, it’s essential to have a good understanding of vehicle systems before making changes.
Q4: Where can I find reliable VCDS coding information and guides?
Reliable information can be found on the Ross-Tech website, VCDS forums, and automotive enthusiast communities. Always verify the accuracy of information before applying it to your vehicle.
Q5: What is the difference between coding and adaptation in VCDS?
Coding involves changing the basic functionality of a control module, while adaptation involves adjusting specific parameters within the module to fine-tune its behavior.
Q6: How do I revert to the original coding if I make a mistake?
Before making any coding changes, always back up the original coding values. If you make a mistake, you can use the VCDS software to restore the original coding.
Q7: Are there any legal restrictions on VCDS coding modifications?
Some modifications, such as disabling safety features or emissions controls, may be illegal in certain regions. Always check local regulations before making any modifications.
Q8: Can VCDS coding void my vehicle’s warranty?
Modifying vehicle settings through VCDS coding may void certain parts of your vehicle’s warranty. Check with your dealer or warranty provider for clarification.
Q9: What is the best VCDS cable to use?
The official Ross-Tech HEX-V2 cable is widely regarded as the best option for VCDS coding due to its reliability and compatibility.
Q10: How often should I update my VCDS software?
It’s recommended to update your VCDS software regularly to ensure compatibility with the latest vehicle models and access the latest features and bug fixes.
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