For Audi enthusiasts, the desire to personalize and optimize their vehicle’s performance and features is a natural inclination. If you’re an Audi S4 B8 owner looking to tap into a world of customization, you’ve come to the right place. This guide delves into the realm of Audi Car Coding, specifically focusing on Vehicle Diagnostics Coding System (VCDS) modifications that can unlock hidden functionalities and tailor your driving experience to your preferences.
Based on community knowledge and readily available information, this article serves as a consolidated resource for popular and effective VCDS tweaks for your Audi S4 B8. Think of this as your go-to checklist and instruction manual for enhancing your car’s features right in your garage.
Please note: While this guide is compiled with care, car coding involves modifying your vehicle’s software. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand each modification before implementation. We are not responsible for any unintended consequences resulting from these modifications.
Essential Audi S4 B8 VCDS Coding Modifications
This section outlines a range of VCDS coding modifications categorized for easy navigation. Each modification includes a brief description and the step-by-step VCDS coding procedure.
Visibility and Lighting Enhancements
Enhance your Audi S4’s lighting system with these coding tweaks:
Disable After-wipe of Windscreen Wipers
Eliminate the annoying final wipe of your windscreen wipers a few seconds after using the washers.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> [Dropdown] -> "x ** 8K1 955 119 ** WWS xxxx" -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 - Remove check mark (1 = active)
Disable Amber Corner Lights (For US Vehicles)
Clean up the look of your headlights by disabling the amber corner lights, often preferred for a cleaner, Euro-style aesthetic.
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)
Disable Amber Side Markers
Similar to corner lights, disabling amber side markers can streamline the side profile of your Audi.
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)
Disable LED ‘Wink’ on Turn Signal
Prevent 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)
Byte 7 - Turn off LED-strip DRLs with indicators (1 = active)
Disable “Lights are on” Warning
Silence the 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.
Enable Adaptive Brake Lights
Activate the adaptive brake light function, causing brake lights to flash rapidly during hard braking to warn drivers behind you more effectively.
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)
Enable DRL Selectable via MMI
Gain control over your Daytime Running Lights through the Multi Media Interface (MMI) system, allowing you to easily toggle them on or off.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] -> [Coding – 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 3 Bit 5 set to 1
Enable DRL Options
Customize which lights function as your Daytime Running Lights, choosing from front side markers, high beams, fog lights, LEDs, side markers, or tail lights.
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
Enable Euro Parking Lights
Activate the European parking light feature, illuminating the parking light on the side of the vehicle corresponding to the activated turn signal at night.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 9 Bit 0 - Set to 1
Enable Fog Lights as Cornering Lights
Program your fog lights to activate as cornering lights, turning on the fog light on the same side as the steering input or turn signal for enhanced visibility during поворотах.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 4 Bit 0 - Check the box or change :Bit 0 set to 1
Enable Front Turn Signals as Parking Lights
Set your front turn signals to function as additional parking lights, increasing visibility when parked.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 10 Bit 0- Check the box or change :Bit 0 to 1
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 2 Bit 6 - Check the box or change :Bit 0 set to 1 (for DRL function)
Enable Rear Tail Lights on with DRLs
Keep your rear tail lights illuminated whenever the Daytime Running Lights are active, increasing your car’s visibility from the rear at all times.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 2 Bit 7 - DRL's via Tail Lets Active (1 = Active)
Convenience and Comfort Features
Enhance your Audi S4’s comfort and convenience through these VCDS modifications:
Disable Key Warning (Keyless Models)
Silence the warning chime that sounds when you open the door on keyless models while the key is not detected inside.
VCDS Coding:
[46 – Central Conv.] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 9 Bit 7 set to 0 (Uncheck)
Disable NAV & Phone Warning Messages at Speed
Remove the annoying safety warnings that appear on your navigation or phone interface when inputting data while the vehicle is in motion.
VCDS Coding:
[5F - Information Electr.] -> Adaptation -> Set channel 2 & 3 to 250
Disable Seatbelt Chime
Deactivate the seatbelt warning chime for situations where it might be temporarily undesirable (use with caution and always prioritize safety).
VCDS Coding:
[17 - Instruments] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 0 Bit 2-4 – Seat Belt Warning inactive
Enable Ambient Interior Lighting Control
Unlock control over ambient interior lighting settings within the MMI, allowing for greater customization of your cabin’s atmosphere.
VCDS Coding:
[Hidden menu] [car] [carmenuoperation] [interior light] Set to 5
[Hidden menu] [car] [cardevicelist] [interior light] Enable
Reset MMI
Enable Automatic Gear Selection Shown in DIS
Display the current automatic gear selection (D or S) within the Driver Information System (DIS) for clearer driving information.
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
Enable Automatic Hill Hold Assist ‘lite’
Activate a ‘lite’ version of hill hold assist, preventing rollback on inclines without requiring aggressive braking input.
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.
Enable Auxiliary Ventilation
Enable the auxiliary ventilation system, allowing you to circulate fresh air within the cabin even when the engine is off, improving comfort in hot weather.
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
Byte 1 Bit 4 – Set to 1
Enable Battery Meter
Display a battery voltage meter in your MMI or DIS, providing real-time insight into your car’s battery health.
VCDS Coding:
[Hidden menu] [car] [cardevextdevicelist] [Battery] Enable
[Hidden menu] [car] [carmenuoperation] [Battery] Set to 5
Reset MMI
OR
[56 - Radio] -> Adaption -> Channel 39, add 16 to your value
Enable DIS with Efficiency Program (MY2010+)
For 2010+ models, enable the Efficiency Program within the DIS, providing driving efficiency information and tips (note: may not be a complete program without Start/Stop system).
VCDS Coding:
[17 - Instruments] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 77 change 0 to 255
Enable Double Disarm Beep
Add a double beep confirmation when disarming your alarm system, providing audible feedback.
VCDS Coding:
[46 - Central Conv.] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 63 Add 4
Enable Gauge Test/Needle Sweep
Activate the gauge test or needle sweep function, causing the instrument cluster needles to sweep across the gauges upon vehicle start-up for a sporty visual effect.
VCDS Coding:
[17 - Instruments] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 0 - Check the box for "Gauge Test/Needle Sweep active"
Enable Hidden Menu in MMI
Unlock the hidden menu within your MMI system, granting access to advanced settings and diagnostic information (use with caution).
VCDS Coding:
[5F - Information Electr.] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 6 change 0 to 1
Enable Import CDs to MMI’s HD
Allow the import of CDs directly to your MMI’s hard drive for convenient media storage (if applicable to your MMI version).
VCDS Coding:
[Hidden menu] Main/Diagnose/Settings Import Media Set to 4 of 4 "Copy/Ripping"
Enable Independent Fog Light Control with High Beams
Allow independent control of fog lights even when high beams are activated, providing maximum lighting flexibility.
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
Enable Lap Timer
Activate the lap timer function within your DIS, allowing you to time laps on the track or measure performance metrics.
VCDS Coding:
[17 - Instruments] [Coding - 07] -> Long Coding Helper -> Byte 1 Bit 3 - Check the box for "Lap Timer active"
Enable Remote Operation Windows and Sunroof
Enable remote operation of your windows and sunroof via the key fob, allowing you to open or close them remotely for ventilation or convenience.
VCDS Coding:
[46 - Cent. Conv.] [Coding - 07] -> [Long Coding Helper] Byte 2 Bit 2 - Set to 1
Enable Release Parking Brake without Brake Pedal
Allow release of the electronic parking brake without needing to depress the brake pedal.
VCDS Coding:
[53 - Parking Brake][Security Access - 16] (Enter code presented by program) [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 4 Set to 0
Enable Release Parking Brake without Seatbelt
Enable releasing the parking brake even when 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
Enable Reverse Mirror Tilt
Activate the reverse mirror tilt feature, automatically tilting the passenger side mirror downwards when reverse gear is engaged to improve visibility of curbs.
VCDS Coding:
[52 Door Elect, Pass.] -> [Coding - 07] -> [Long Coding Helper] -> Byte 4 Bit 4 and Bit 2 set to 1
Enable Speed Display in MMI
Display your vehicle speed digitally within the MMI screen (may not function on NAV-equipped models).
VCDS Coding:
[56 - Radio] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 02, Set to 1
Enable TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Activate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) if your car is equipped with the necessary ABS unit (1AT ABS – check stickers, 1AS not compatible).
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
Enable Video in Motion (VIM) on MMI
Unlock Video in Motion (VIM) functionality, allowing video playback on the MMI screen even while the car is moving (passenger use only and obey 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
Performance and System Adjustments
Fine-tune system behaviors and performance characteristics with these coding options:
Set Audi Parking System Switch OFF Speed
Adjust the speed threshold 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)
Set Custom ADS (Audi Drive Select) Settings
Customize the default Audi Drive Select (ADS) mode to Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, or Individual at 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.
Set Headlight Washer Duration
Adjust the duration of the headlight washer spray.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Security Access - 16] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 6 change to e.g. 500
Set Headlight Washer Cycles
Modify the number of wash cycles for the headlight washers.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Security Access - 16] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 26 change to e.g. 10
Adjust Consumption in DIS
Calibrate the fuel consumption display in your DIS to match actual fuel usage more accurately.
VCDS Coding:
[17 - Instruments] [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 3 change 100 to xxx (calculation examples provided in original article)
Adjust LED Brightness
Fine-tune the brightness of your LED daytime running lights.
VCDS Coding:
[09 – Cent. Elect.] [Security Access - 16] (security code: 20113) [Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 3 Set between 5 and 100
Set Automatic Transmission Start Mode
Customize the default start mode for your 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
Channel 64 - New Value = 00; Starting mode determined by ADS
Channel 64 - New Value = 03; Starting mode is always S
Channel 64 - New Value = 11; Starting mode is S except Comfort (D)
Channel 64 - New Value = 19; Starting mode is S except Auto (D)
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and based on community contributions. Always exercise caution when performing car coding. Double-check each step and ensure you have a backup plan in case of unexpected issues.
Further Exploration: For more advanced Audi car coding options and in-depth information, explore reputable online forums and resources dedicated to VCDS modifications. Remember to use these modifications responsibly and within legal boundaries.
By utilizing VCDS and understanding the possibilities of Audi car coding, you can truly personalize your Audi S4 B8 and unlock its full potential, making your driving experience even more enjoyable and tailored to your specific needs.