Understanding the intricacies of your VW Alltrack’s features can be challenging. One common question revolves around enabling the automatic rain closing function, often requiring the use of a VCDS tool. This article delves into the complexities of rain light recognition sensors (RLS) and how a VCDS scan can help determine compatibility for enabling automatic rain closing on a VW Alltrack. We’ll analyze specific part numbers and real-world examples using VCDS scan data to clarify the process.
Identifying Compatible Rain Light Sensors for Rain Closing
Recent discussions on various forums have highlighted the differences between various rain light sensor (RLS) part numbers and their compatibility with the automatic rain closing feature in VW vehicles, specifically the Alltrack. A key distinction lies in the sensor’s designation: RLHS (Rain Light Sensor) versus RLFS (Rain Light/Fog Sensor). Generally:
- RLHS: Indicates rain closing is not possible.
- RLFS: Indicates rain closing is possible.
However, real-world scenarios often present discrepancies. One user reported successful rain closing with part numbers 5Q0 955 559, 5Q0 955 547, despite some inconsistencies in VCDS scan data. Conversely, part numbers 8U0 955 559 and 7N0 955 559 did not enable the feature.
Analyzing a 2018 VW Alltrack VCDS Scan
A VCDS scan from a 2018 VW Alltrack provides valuable insights:
Address 09: Cent. Elect. (J519) Labels:. 5Q0-937-08X-V2.clb
...
Rain Light Recognition Sensor: Subsystem 2 - Part No SW: 5Q0 955 559 B HW: 5Q0 955 559 B Labels: 5Q0-955-547.CLB Component: RLS 047 0105 Serial number: S4Y17M09D13H12M27S26 Coding: 00A8DD
...This scan reveals the installed RLS part number as 5Q0 955 559, which theoretically supports rain closing. However, the “Labels” field shows 5Q0-955-547.CLB, potentially indicating a different sensor variant. The “Component” designation as “RLS” rather than “RLFS” adds further ambiguity.
Practical Application and Further Investigation
While the 2018 Alltrack scan suggests potential for rain closing with part number 5Q0 955 559, further confirmation is needed by testing the actual functionality. In another instance, a 2016 Golf R with an unspecified RLS part number successfully enabled rain closing via the vehicle settings.
This highlights the importance of using a VCDS tool not just for identifying part numbers but also for accessing and potentially modifying coding to enable hidden features like automatic rain closing. Further research and experimentation with different RLS part numbers and coding variations are crucial for definitive answers.
Conclusion: Leveraging VCDS for Rain Closing Activation
The VCDS tool proves invaluable for diagnosing and understanding the complexities of the rain closing feature on VW vehicles like the Alltrack. While general guidelines exist for RLS part number compatibility, real-world scenarios can vary. Utilizing VCDS scans to identify specific part numbers and potentially adjust coding provides a pathway to enabling this convenient feature. However, thorough research and testing are essential for successful implementation.
