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Unlock Hidden Features of Your Audi S4: The Ultimate VCDS and Carly Coding Guide

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As an Audi S4 owner, you might be unaware of the numerous customizable features hidden within your vehicle’s software. Vehicle Diagnostic System (VCDS), also known as VAG-COM, and user-friendly OBD-II Bluetooth devices like Carly, offer enthusiasts the power to unlock and modify these settings. This comprehensive guide compiles a list of popular VCDS tweaks specifically for Audi S4 models, providing step-by-step instructions to personalize your driving experience.

This article is inspired by community efforts to centralize VCDS information, making it easier for Audi owners to discover and implement modifications. Consider this your go-to resource for exploring the coding potential of your Audi S4.

Note: While this guide focuses on VCDS coding, it’s important to understand that tools like Carly simplify many of these modifications through their intuitive apps. Whether you prefer the in-depth control of VCDS or the ease of Carly, this list serves as a valuable reference.

Comprehensive List of Audi S4 (B8) VCDS Tweaks

Below is a detailed list of VCDS modifications for your Audi S4 B8, categorized for easier navigation. Each modification includes a description and the VCDS coding procedure.

Lighting Modifications

1. Disable After-wipe of Windscreen Wipers

  • Description: Prevents the wipers from making an extra wipe a few seconds after washing the windshield, often smearing remaining water.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> [Dropdown] -> “x ** 8K1 955 119 ** WWS xxxx”
    • Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 – Uncheck the box (1 = active)

2. Disable Amber Corner Lights (US vehicles)

  • Description: Removes the amber corner lights for a cleaner, Euro-style headlight appearance.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 10 Submodule 0 Bit 3 – Set to 0 to disable amber side markers (U.S. vehicles)

3. Disable Amber Side Markers

  • Description: Disables the amber side marker lights, contributing to a more streamlined look.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 10 Submodule 0 Bit 3 – Set to 0 to disable amber side markers.

4. Disable LED ‘wink’ on Turn Signal

  • Description: Stops the LED daytime running lights (DRLs) from dimming or “winking” when the turn signal is activated, maintaining consistent brightness.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 3
      • Bit 2 – LEDs remain at full brightness with parking lights (1 = active)
      • Bit 7 – Turn off LED-strip DRLs with indicators (1 = active)

5. Disable “Lights are on” Warning

  • Description: Turns off the audible warning chime that sounds when you open the driver’s door with the headlights still on.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 5 Bit 3 – Set to 0 to disable “lights are on” warning when you open the door.

6. Enable Adaptive Brake Lights

  • Description: Activates emergency brake flashing, where the brake lights and/or turn signals flash rapidly during hard braking to warn drivers behind you.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [46 – Comfort System]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 8
      • Bit 0 – Emergency Brake Flashing via Turn Lights active (1 = active)
      • Bit 1 – Emergency Brake Flashing via Brake Lights active (1 = active)

7. Enable DRL Selectable via MMI

  • Description: Adds an option to the Multi Media Interface (MMI) menu to control Daytime Running Lights (DRL) on/off settings.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.] -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 3 Bit 5 set to 1

8. Enable DRL Options (via Front Side markers, High Beams, Fogs, LEDs, Side markers, Tail lights)

  • Description: Allows you to customize which lights function as your Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 2
      • Bit 1 = DRL via Front Side markers
      • Bit 2 = DRL via High Beams
      • Bit 3 = DRL via Fogs
      • Bit 4 = DRL via LEDs
      • Bit 6 = DRL via Side markers
      • Bit 7 = DRL via Tail lights

9. Enable Euro Parking Lights (Turn signal side lights at night)

  • Description: Activates the European parking light feature where the lights on one side of the car illuminate when parked at night with the turn signal lever engaged.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 9 Bit 0 – Set to 1

10. Enable Fog Lamp as Cornering Lights

  • Description: Turns on the fog light on the same side as the steering input during low-speed turns to improve visibility.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 4 Bit 0 – Check the box or change :Bit 0 set to 1

11. Enable Front Turn Signals as Parking Lights

  • Description: Allows the front turn signals to function as additional parking lights, increasing visibility.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 10 Bit 0 – Check the box or change :Bit 0 to 1
    • To enable as DRLs after the above change:
      • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
      • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 2 Bit 6 – Check the box or change :Bit 0 set to 1

12. Enable LEDs Remain Bright for Parking Lights

  • Description: Keeps the LED daytime running lights at full brightness when the parking lights are turned on, instead of dimming.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 3 Bit 2 – LEDs remain at full brightness with parking lights (1 = active)

13. Enable Rear Tail Lights on with DRLs

  • Description: Turns on the rear tail lights whenever the Daytime Running Lights are active, enhancing rear visibility.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 2 Bit 7 – DRL’s via Tail Lets Active (1 = Active)

14. Adjust LED Brightness

  • Description: Allows you to adjust the brightness of the LED daytime running lights to your preference.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Security Access – 16] (enter security code – default codes include 20113)
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 3 Set between 5 and 100

Convenience and Display Modifications

15. Disable Key Warning (Keyless Models)

  • Description: Stops the warning beep that occurs when you open the door with the keyless ignition system and the engine is off.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [46 – Central Conv.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 9 Bit 7 set to 0 (Uncheck)

16. Disable NAV & Phone Warning Messages at Speed

  • Description: Removes the annoying warning messages that appear on the navigation and phone screens when trying to input data while driving above a certain speed.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [5F – Information Electr.] -> Adaptation -> Set channel 2 & 3 to 250

17. Disable Seatbelt Chime

  • Description: Turns off the audible seatbelt warning chime. Note: Disabling safety features is done at your own risk and is generally not recommended.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [17 – Instruments]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 0 Bit 2-4 – Seat Belt Warning inactive

18. Enable Ambient Interior Lighting Control

  • Description: Adds control for ambient interior lighting to the MMI, allowing for customization of brightness and color (if equipped).
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [Hidden menu] [car] [carmenuoperation] [interior light] Set to 5
    • [Hidden menu] [car] [cardevicelist] [interior light] Enable
    • Reset MMI

19. Enable Automatic Gear Selection Shown in DIS

  • Description: Displays the current gear selection (D or S) in the Driver Information System (DIS) when in automatic or sport mode.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [02 – Auto Trans]
    • [Adaptation – 10]
    • Select “Single Gear Display” from top channel drop down menu
    • Select “D on/S on” from New value drop down menu

20. Enable Automatic Hill Hold Assist ‘lite’

  • Description: Activates a “lite” version of hill hold assist, which helps prevent the car from rolling back on inclines when starting from a stop.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [03 – ABS brakes]
    • [Security Access – 16] (Enter code presented by program)
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 6 set to 1 to enable hill hold assist.

21. Enable Auxiliary Ventilation

  • Description: Enables the auxiliary ventilation system, allowing the car’s ventilation to run even when the engine is off, helping to cool down or ventilate the cabin.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [5F – Information Electr.] -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 6 Bit 1 – Set to 1
    • [Hidden menu] [car] [cardevicelist] [Auxiliary heating] Enable
    • [08 – Auto HVAC] -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 – Set to 1, Bit 4 – Set to 1

22. Enable Battery Meter

  • Description: Displays a battery voltage meter in the MMI or radio display, providing real-time battery status.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • Method 1 (MMI):
      • [Hidden menu] [car] [cardevextdevicelist] [Battery] Enable
      • [Hidden menu] [car] [carmenuoperation] [Battery] Set to 5
      • Reset MMI
    • Method 2 (Radio):
      • [56 – Radio] -> Adaption -> Channel 39, add 16 to your value

23. Enable DIS with Efficiency Program (MY2010+)

  • Description: Activates the Efficiency Program within the Driver Information System (DIS) for models 2010 and newer, providing driving efficiency tips.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [17 – Instruments] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 77 change 0 to 255

24. Enable Double Disarm Beep

  • Description: Adds a double beep sound when disarming (unlocking) the car using the remote, providing audible confirmation.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [46 – Central Conv.] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 63 Add 4

25. Enable Gauge Test/Needle Sweep

  • Description: Performs a gauge test or needle sweep upon starting the ignition, where the instrument cluster needles sweep across their ranges and back.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [17 – Instruments]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 0 – Check the box for “Gauge Test/Needle Sweep active”

26. Enable Hidden Menu in MMI

  • Description: Unlocks the hidden green menu in the MMI system, providing access to advanced settings and diagnostic options. Caution: Use with extreme care as incorrect settings can cause issues. Avoid the “Bootloader” option.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [5F – Information Electr.] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 6 change 0 to 1

27. Enable Import CDs to MMI’s HD

  • Description: Enables the function to import CDs directly to the MMI’s hard drive (if equipped).
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [Hidden menu] Main/Diagnose/Settings Import Media Set to 4 of 4 “Copy/Ripping”

28. Enable Independent Fogs Control with High Beams

  • Description: Allows you to keep the fog lights on even when the high beams are activated.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 4
      • Bit 1 – (Front) Uncheck the box or change :Bit 1 to 0
      • Bit 2 – (Rear) Uncheck the box or change :Bit 2 to 0

29. Enable Lap Timer

  • Description: Activates a lap timer function in the Driver Information System (DIS), useful for track days or performance measurement.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [17 – Instruments]
    • [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 – Check the box for “Lap Timer active”

30. Enable Remote Operation Windows and Sunroof

  • Description: Allows you to control the windows and sunroof remotely using the key fob (open and close).
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [46 – Cent. Conv.]
    • [Coding – 07] -> [Long Coding Helper] Byte 2 Bit 2 – Set to 1

31. Enable Release Parking Brake without Foot on Brake

  • Description: Allows you to release the electronic parking brake without having to press the brake pedal.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [53 – Parking Brake]
    • [Security Access – 16] (Enter code presented by program)
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 4 Set to 0

32. Enable Release Parking Brake without Seatbelt

  • Description: Allows releasing the electronic parking brake even if the driver’s seatbelt is not fastened.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [53 – Parking Brake]
    • [Security Access – 16] (Enter code presented by program)
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 7 Set to 0

33. Enable Reverse Mirror Tilt

  • Description: Tilts the passenger side mirror downwards when reversing to improve visibility of curbs and obstacles.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [52 Door Elect, Pass.] -> [Coding – 07] -> [Long Coding Helper] -> Byte 4 Bit 4 and Bit 2 set to 1

34. Enable Speed Through MMI

  • Description: Displays the current vehicle speed in the MMI system. Note: May not work on vehicles equipped with navigation.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [56 – Radio] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 02, Set to 1

35. Enable TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

  • Description: Activates the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Note: Requires compatible ABS unit (1AT). Check your vehicle’s sticker.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [Hidden menu] [car] [cardevicelist] [RDK] Enable
    • [Hidden menu] [car] [carmenuoperation] [Tires Air Pressure Control] Set to 5
    • [03 – ABS Brakes] -> [Security Access – 16] (login code: 61378) -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 – Tire Pressure Monitoring (PR-7K6) active (1 = active)
    • [17 – Instruments] -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 4 Bit 0 – Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) installed (1 = active)
    • Reset MMI

36. Enable VIM (Video In Motion) on MMI

  • Description: Allows video playback on the MMI screen while the vehicle is in motion. Note: Use responsibly and in accordance with local laws.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [5F – Information Electr.] -> [Advanced ID – 1A] Note 1st Serial number
    • [Security Access] Enter Digits 6, 13, 10, 14, 11 of the 1st Serial number
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 48 Set to 255
    • Reset MMI

System Settings Adjustments

37. Set Audi Parking System – Switch OFF Speed

  • Description: Adjusts the speed at which the Audi parking system deactivates.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [10 – Park/Steer Assist] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 23 Set to 20 (max value in km/h)

38. Set Custom ADS (Audi Drive Select) Settings

  • Description: Allows you to pre-select a specific Audi Drive Select mode (Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, or Individual) to be active upon vehicle start-up.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.][Security Access – 16]
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 63 Set to 01 – Comfort, 02 – Auto, 03 – Dynamic or 04 – Individual
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 64 Set to 01 – Comfort, 02 – Auto, 03 – Dynamic or 04 – Individual
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 65 Set to 01 – Comfort, 02 – Auto, 03 – Dynamic or 04 – Individual
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 66 Set to 01 – Comfort, 02 – Auto, 03 – Dynamic or 04 – Individual
    • Note: All four channels need to be set to the same value.

39. Set Headlight Washer – Duration

  • Description: Modifies the duration for which the headlight washers spray.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.] -> [Security Access – 16]
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 6 change to e.g. 500

40. Set Headlight Washer – Cycles

  • Description: Adjusts the number of headlight washer spray cycles.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.] -> [Security Access – 16]
    • [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 26 change to e.g. 10

41. Adjust Consumption in DIS (Driver Information System)

  • Description: Calibrates the fuel consumption display in the DIS to match actual fuel economy more accurately.
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [17 – Instruments] -> [Adaptation – 10] -> Channel 3 change 100 to xxx (calculation needed – see examples below)
    • Sample 1 (l/100km): DIS: 9.3 l/100 km, Real: 9.8 l/100 km. (100 * 9.8 / 9.3 = 105.38). Channel 3 changed from 100 to 105.
    • Sample 2 (MPG): DIS: 23 MPG, Real: 24 MPG. (100 * 23 / 24 = 95.83). Channel 3 changed from 100 to 96.

42. Set Automatic Transmission Start Mode

  • Description: Configures the default start mode for the automatic transmission (D or S).
  • VCDS Coding:
    • [09 – Cent. Elect.] -> [Security Access – 10]
    • [Adaptation 10] -> Channel 64
      • Stored Value = 218 = Starting mode is always D
      • New Value = 00; Starting mode is determined by ADS selection at engine shutdown (Comfort and Auto=D, Dynamic=S, Individual=whatever you pick)
      • New Value = 03; Starting mode is always S regardless of ADS selection at engine shutdown (opposite of stock)
      • New Value = 11; Starting mode is S with all ADS settings at shutdown except Comfort where it’s D
      • New Value = 19; Starting mode is S with all ADS settings at shutdown except Auto where it’s D

Conclusion: Personalize Your Audi S4 with VCDS and Tools like Carly

This list provides a comprehensive starting point for customizing your Audi S4 B8 using VCDS. Remember to exercise caution and double-check each coding step before applying changes to your vehicle.

For users seeking a more streamlined and user-friendly approach, consider exploring tools like Carly. Carly simplifies many VAG coding procedures with its mobile app interface, making it accessible for owners who may not be familiar with VCDS software.

Whether you choose VCDS or Carly, unlocking these hidden features can significantly enhance your ownership experience and personalize your Audi S4 to your exact preferences. Explore the possibilities and enjoy a vehicle tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer: Modifying vehicle settings using VCDS or similar tools is done at your own risk. Be sure to back up your original settings and proceed with caution. We are not responsible for any issues arising from these modifications. Always consult with a qualified automotive technician if you are unsure about any procedure.

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