Many Volkswagen Jetta owners want their radio to stay on even after turning off the ignition. This can be useful for listening to music while working on the car or waiting for someone. This guide will walk you through how to achieve this using a VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System).
While this modification offers convenience, it’s crucial to monitor your battery level to prevent draining. Always ensure you have enough power to start your vehicle. Incorrectly using VCDS can lead to unintended consequences, so proceed cautiously and consult your vehicle’s repair manual.
This guide provides instructions for various Jetta models. However, always refer to your specific vehicle’s factory repair manual for the most accurate information. Ross-Tech, the maker of VCDS, is not responsible for any issues arising from following these instructions.
Programming Your Jetta Radio with VCDS
You’ll need a VCDS interface and software to adjust the settings in your Jetta’s Central Convenience module. Here’s a general procedure, though it may vary slightly depending on your specific Jetta model year:
Method 1: Adaptation Channel
-
Connect VCDS: Plug your VCDS interface into your Jetta’s OBD-II port and launch the VCDS software on your computer.
-
Select Controller: Navigate to [Select] -> [46 – Cent. Conv.] or [35 – Cent. Locking], depending on your Jetta’s model. You can find the correct controller for your specific model year in the Ross-Tech Wiki.
-
Adaptation: Go to [Adaptation – 10].
-
Channel Selection: Enter channel “01” or “21” (refer to your vehicle’s specific instructions in the Ross-Tech Wiki). Click [Read]. This displays the number of currently stored remotes.
-
Modify Stored Value: Enter the desired number of remotes (up to 4) in “New Value”. Click [Test] to verify, then [Save]. This step may not be related to the radio staying on but is part of the general remote matching procedure.
-
Remote Matching (if applicable): This step may not be necessary if you’re only changing the radio setting. If you are also matching new remotes, within 15 seconds, press and hold the unlock button on each remote for at least one second. Your Jetta might acknowledge each successful pairing with flashing lights or a horn beep.
Method 2: Measuring Blocks
If Method 1 doesn’t work, try this:
-
Connect VCDS and Select Controller: Follow steps 1 and 2 from Method 1.
-
Measuring Blocks: Go to [Meas. Blocks – 08].
-
Group Selection: Enter group “003” or “007” (check your vehicle’s specific instructions). Click [Go!]. Field 2 will indicate the number of matched remotes. This method typically deals with key matching, not directly with the radio staying on. Consult the Ross-Tech Wiki for specific instructions on keeping your radio on.
Clearing Existing Remotes:
If necessary, clear existing matched remotes:
-
Connect VCDS and Select Controller: Follow steps 1 and 2 from Method 1.
-
Adaptation: Go to [Adaptation – 10].
-
Channel Selection: Enter channel “00”. Click [Read] then [Save]. Confirm when prompted. This will erase all matched remotes, requiring you to reprogram them.
Finding Your Jetta’s Specific Instructions
The Ross-Tech Wiki (http://wiki.ross-tech.com) provides detailed, model-specific instructions for various VCDS procedures. Searching for “radio” or “convenience” along with your Jetta’s model year should yield relevant results. Always cross-reference this information with your factory repair manual.
Remember, making changes to your car’s settings with VCDS can have unintended consequences. Proceed with caution, back up your existing settings, and consult reputable resources like the Ross-Tech Wiki and your factory repair manual. Enjoy listening to your Jetta’s radio even after the ignition is off!
