After retrofitting a Virtual Cockpit (VC) in a 2013 Audi A3 2.0 TDI, several issues have arisen despite successful calibration and component protection removal. These include the loss of Drive Select and cruise control, intermittent auto stop/start functionality, and non-functional steering wheel buttons (while lights and paddles work). The MIB2 system functions correctly. An error related to “4E – Ctrl Head RR – INTERFACE NOT COMPATIBLE” is persistent. This article will analyze a VCDS scan to diagnose the root causes of these problems and suggest potential solutions. Understanding the VCDS output is crucial for troubleshooting a virtual cockpit retrofit.
Decoding the Virtual Cockpit VCDS Scan
The provided VCDS scan reveals numerous fault codes across various modules, offering valuable clues for diagnosing the issues. Key findings related to the Virtual Cockpit Vcds retrofit include:
Engine Control Module (Address 01)
- Fault Code: 17149 – Check Coding of ECUs on Powertrain Data Bus. This suggests a mismatch in coding between the engine control module and other modules on the powertrain data bus, likely due to the VC retrofit. This miscommunication can disrupt functionalities like Drive Select and auto stop/start.
ABS Brakes (Address 03)
- Fault Code: 8299 – Databus U1121 – Missing Message. This indicates that the ABS module is not receiving necessary information from other modules on the data bus. This missing communication could be related to the VC installation.
- Fault Code: 8309 – Engine Control Module Incorrectly Coded. This further reinforces the coding mismatch within the powertrain system.
Instruments (Address 17)
- Fault Code: 13636608 – Control Module Incorrectly Coded. This fault directly points to incorrect coding within the instrument cluster, a critical component of the virtual cockpit system.
- Fault Code: 16776994 – Databus U1121 – Missing Message. Similar to the ABS module, the instrument cluster is also missing crucial data from the data bus.
Information Electronics (Address 5F)
- Fault Code: 15360768 – Component Protection. While component protection has reportedly been removed, this active fault suggests potential lingering issues or incorrect procedure during removal. This could be contributing to the non-functional steering wheel buttons. Addressing component protection is vital after a virtual cockpit vcds retrofit.
- Fault Codes: Various other faults related to communication issues (U1101, U1104, U11B8, U1111) highlight broader network communication problems potentially stemming from the VC retrofit. These communication errors can impact a wide range of features.
4E – Ctrl Head RR (Address 4E)
- Error: INTERFACE NOT COMPATIBLE. This error indicates the VCDS interface used is outdated and unable to communicate with this module. Upgrading to a current-generation Ross-Tech interface is necessary for proper diagnosis. A compatible interface is essential for analyzing virtual cockpit vcds data.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The VCDS scan reveals significant coding and communication issues likely caused by the Virtual Cockpit retrofit. To resolve the problems, the following steps are recommended:
- Address Coding Issues: Focus on correcting the coding mismatches in the Engine Control Module (Address 01), ABS Brakes (Address 03), and Instruments (Address 17). Consult official documentation or resources for correct coding procedures. Using VCDS efficiently is crucial for this task.
- Re-verify Component Protection Removal: Thoroughly re-check the component protection removal process, ensuring it was performed correctly for all relevant modules, particularly Address 5F.
- Upgrade VCDS Interface: A current-generation Ross-Tech interface is necessary to diagnose and address the “INTERFACE NOT COMPATIBLE” error with module 4E (Ctrl Head RR). This will enable a complete scan and potentially uncover further issues.
- Consult Wiring Diagrams: Verify all connections related to the VC retrofit, ensuring proper wiring and grounding. Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams for accurate information.
By systematically addressing these issues, the functionality of the Virtual Cockpit and associated systems can likely be restored. Remember to clear all fault codes after making changes and re-scan to confirm successful resolution.
