Retrofitting an Active Information Display (AID), also known as a digital cockpit, in a Volkswagen offers a significant upgrade to the driving experience. One crucial aspect of this upgrade is enabling the navigation map display within the AID. This guide focuses on utilizing VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) to activate the Vcds Map Switch and configure the necessary settings for seamless navigation integration. This process allows drivers to view navigation maps directly in front of them, enhancing safety and convenience.
This guide outlines the steps involved in enabling the map display on a retrofitted AID in a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, using VCDS for coding and adaptation changes. While this specific example uses a Golf Alltrack, the general principles can be applied to other compatible Volkswagen models.
Activating Navigation with VCDS: A Step-by-Step Guide
After physically installing the AID and establishing initial coding with ODIS, VCDS is required to fine-tune the settings and activate the navigation display. The following steps outline the VCDS coding process:
Module 17 (Instrument Cluster) Coding:
- Byte 2, Bit 3-6 (Model): Change the setting to “50 Model: Variant A” to correctly identify the vehicle model as a Variant/SportWagen. This ensures the proper graphical representation of the car within the AID. The default setting after ODIS coding is often incorrect, displaying a standard Golf instead of the Variant.
- Byte 1 (Optional): Enable needle sweep and lap timer by ticking Bit 0 and Bit 3, respectively. These are optional features that enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the AID.
- Byte 12 (Dimming): Check Bit 2 to activate the “Alternative Dimming Function,” optimizing screen brightness in various lighting conditions.
Module 17 (Instrument Cluster) Adaptations:
- Display Depiction: Change from “Version 1” to “Version 2.” This crucial step enables navigation map support within the AID. Version 1 lacks this capability.
- Tube_version: Change to “variant_2” for Alltrack-specific speedometer and tachometer displays, ensuring accurate readings and visual consistency.
Module 5F (Information Electronics) Coding:
- Byte 22: Uncheck Bit 0 – “Instrument Cluster Graphics [STANDARD].” This disables the standard instrument cluster graphics and allows the AID to take over the display functions. This is essential for displaying the navigation map on the AID.
- Byte 14 (Optional): If the AM radio band is unused, ticking Bit 3 allows toggling between FM and Satellite radio only.
Module 5F (Information Electronics) Adaptations:
Several adaptations within Module 5F need adjustments to enable the VCDS map switch functionality and optimize map display:
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-ability_switch_nav_maps: Set to “On” to enable the navigation map toggle switch on the touchscreen. This allows the driver to switch between different views on the AID.
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-call_picture: Set to “On.”
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-fastlist_most: Set to “On.”
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_compression_mode: Set to “H264” for optimal map data compression.
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_transmission_mode: Set to “MOST_streaming” for efficient data transfer to the AID.
Conclusion
Successfully implementing these VCDS coding changes enables the navigation map display within the AID, completing the digital cockpit retrofit. The VCDS map switch allows drivers to seamlessly toggle between different display options, including navigation, directly on the instrument cluster. By precisely following these steps, Volkswagen owners can enhance their driving experience with a fully functional and integrated digital cockpit. Remember to always double-check coding changes and consult reliable sources for model-specific instructions.
