The Volkswagen Amarok boasts impressive capabilities, but some factory settings can be frustrating. This guide explores using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) to customize an Amarok, specifically focusing on disabling the automatic start/stop function. We’ll also touch upon other successful modifications, such as adjusting the Alt Speed Display and Comfort Turn Signals.
Using VCDS to Modify the VW Amarok
Initial VCDS explorations yielded positive results. Utilizing online resources, the Alt Speed Display, showing speed in KPH, was successfully changed to display MPH. The Comfort Turn Signal flash count was also adjusted from the default three flashes to five. However, this setting was located in Channel 43 of the Central Electrics adaptation, guided by a helpful yellow pop-up within the VCDS software, contradicting information found online.
The primary goal remains disabling the Amarok’s automatic start/stop system. While a button allows manual deactivation with each engine start, a permanent solution is desired. Online suggestions point to a “Start/stop start voltage limit” drop-down menu within the VCDS software, typically found in module 19 – CAN Control Gateway / Adaptation 10. However, this specific option is absent. The only available entry in this location pertains to the Fatigue Alarm. All controllers appear to be CAN-based rather than UDS, though the relevance of this detail is uncertain.
Further research suggests modifying module 09 – Central Electrics, channel 34, by adjusting the default value. This channel currently displays a value of 30. While adding or subtracting from this value is possible, confirming this is the correct procedure for disabling the start/stop system is crucial before implementing changes. A tentative attempt to subtract 4 and execute a “Test” yielded no discernible effect. It’s unclear what the expected outcome of this test should be.
Troubleshooting with VCDS Auto Scan
To aid in diagnosing the issue, a complete VCDS auto-scan of the Amarok’s systems was performed. The scan log, detailed below, provides a comprehensive overview of the vehicle’s modules and their respective fault codes (none found in this case). Analyzing this data might provide insights into locating the correct adaptation channel for disabling the start/stop function.
Wednesday,26,December,2018,13:51:28:28075 VCDS -- Windows Based VAG/VAS Emulator Running on Windows 10 x64 VCDS Version: 18.9.0.4 (x64) HEX-V2 CB: 0.4437.4 Data version: 20181017 DS296.0 www.Ross-Tech.com VIN: WV1ZZZ2HZKH005968 License Plate: Chassis Type: 2H-VN81 (7E0) Scan: 01 02 03 04 08 09 10 15 17 19 25 32 5F 61 65 69 0B VIN: WV1ZZZ2HZKH005968 Mileage: 2030km-1261miles ...(truncated for brevity)... End----------(Elapsed Time: 02:13, VBatt start/end: 12.1V/12.1V)----------- This detailed auto-scan reveals no fault codes, indicating the Amarok’s systems are functioning correctly. However, the specific adaptation for permanently disabling the start/stop function remains elusive.
Conclusion
While initial success was achieved in modifying the Alt Speed Display and Comfort Turn Signals using VCDS, disabling the Amarok’s start/stop system presents a challenge. The commonly suggested adaptation channels either lack the expected options or produce no noticeable changes. Further analysis of the VCDS auto-scan data and consultation with experienced VCDS users might be necessary to pinpoint the correct procedure. Successfully disabling this feature will significantly enhance the driving experience.
