Are you looking to personalize your Audi and unlock some of its hidden features? VAG car coding, also known as VCDS (VAG-COM) coding, allows you to modify your vehicle’s software to enable or disable various functions. This guide focuses specifically on Audi vehicles, providing a comprehensive list of popular and useful codings you can perform to enhance your driving experience.
This article is your central resource for discovering and implementing VAG car coding for your Audi. We’ve compiled a detailed list of modifications, drawing from expert communities and resources, to help you easily customize your car to your preferences.
Note: While this guide aims to provide accurate information, car modification involves inherent risks. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand the coding process before making changes to your vehicle. We are not responsible for any issues arising from modifications based on this guide.
Essential VAG Car Coding Modifications for Your Audi
Below is an extensive list of VAG car coding modifications for Audi vehicles. Each modification includes a brief description of its function and the step-by-step VCDS coding instructions.
Lighting Modifications
Personalize your Audi’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 you’ve used your washer fluid.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Select the dropdown menu and choose your wiper module, typically labeled “x ** 8K1 955 119 ** WWS xxxx”.
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 1 Bit 3 – Uncheck the box (1 = active).
Disable Amber Corner Lights
For US vehicles, disable the amber corner lights for a cleaner, more European look.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “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, you can disable the amber side markers on US-spec Audis.
VCDS Coding:
- Same as “Disable Amber Corner Lights” – Byte 10 Submodule 0 Bit 3.
Disable LED ‘Wink’ on Turn Signal
Stop the LED daytime running lights (DRLs) from dimming or ‘winking’ when the turn signal on the same side is activated.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 3 Bit 2 – Uncheck “LEDs remain at full brightness with parking lights” (1 = active to dim).
- Byte 7 Bit 7 – Uncheck “Turn off LED-strip DRLs with indicators” (1 = active to turn off).
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]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 5 Bit 3 – Set to 0 to disable the “lights are on” warning.
Enable Adaptive Brake Lights
Activate the flashing of brake lights or turn signals during hard braking for increased visibility in emergency situations.
VCDS Coding:
- [46 – Comfort System]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 8 Bit 0 – Check “Emergency Brake Flashing via Turn Lights active” (1 = active).
- Byte 8 Bit 1 – Check “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 turn them on or off.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 3 Bit 5 set to 1.
Enable DRL (Daytime Running Lights) Options
Customize which lights function as your DRLs. Options include front side markers, high beams, fog lights, LEDs, and tail lights.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “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
- Check the bits corresponding to your desired DRL configuration.
Enable Euro Parking Lights
Activate the European-style parking lights where only the front and rear lights on one side of the car illuminate when parked on a street at night.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 9 Bit 0 – Set to 1.
Enable Fog Lights as Cornering Lights
Program your fog lights to turn on automatically on the side you are turning towards, improving visibility during cornering at night.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 4 Bit 0 – Check the box or set Bit 0 to 1.
Enable Front Turn Signals as Parking Lights
Have your front turn signals illuminate at a dimmed intensity when the parking lights are on, similar to some US-spec vehicles.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 10 Bit 0 – Check the box or set Bit 0 to 1.
- To enable them as DRLs as well:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 2 Bit 6 – Check the box or set Bit 6 to 1.
Enable LEDs to Remain Bright for Parking Lights
Ensure your LED DRL strips maintain full brightness even when the parking lights are turned on.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 3 Bit 2 – Uncheck “LEDs remain at full brightness with parking lights” (1 = active to dim). Setting to 0 will keep them bright.
Enable Rear Tail Lights on with DRLs
Activate your rear tail lights to illuminate whenever your Daytime Running Lights are active, increasing your car’s visibility from behind.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 2 Bit 7 – Check “DRL’s via Tail Lights Active” (1 = Active).
Convenience and Comfort Modifications
Enhance your Audi’s convenience and comfort features with these VAG car coding options:
Disable Key Warning (Keyless Models)
Silence the warning chime that sounds when you open the door on keyless models if the key is not detected inside.
VCDS Coding:
- [46 – Central Conv.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 9 Bit 7 – Set to 0 (Uncheck).
Disable NAV & Phone Warning Messages at Speed
Remove the annoying warning messages that appear on your navigation and phone screens when trying to input data while driving at speed. Use responsibly and prioritize safe driving.
VCDS Coding:
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- Adaptation
- Set channel 2 & 3 to 250.
Disable Seatbelt Chime
Deactivate the seatbelt warning chime. Always prioritize safety and wear your seatbelt.
VCDS Coding:
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 0 Bit 2-4 – Select “Seat Belt Warning inactive” from the dropdown.
Enable Ambient Interior Lighting Control
Unlock control over the ambient interior lighting through the MMI, allowing for adjustments to brightness and color (depending on your Audi model’s capabilities).
VCDS Coding:
- Access Hidden Menu in MMI (See “Enable Hidden Menu in MMI” section below).
- [car] [carmenuoperation] [interior light] Set to 5
- [car] [cardevicelist] [interior light] Enable
- Reset MMI.
Enable Automatic Gear Selection Display in DIS
Show the selected gear (D, S, or gear number) in the Driver Information System (DIS) display when using the automatic transmission.
VCDS Coding:
- [02 – Auto Trans]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Select “Single Gear Display” from the channel dropdown menu.
- Select “D on/S on” from the “New value” dropdown menu.
Enable Automatic Hill Hold Assist ‘lite’
Activate a ‘lite’ version of Hill Hold Assist, which helps prevent rollback when starting on inclines.
VCDS Coding:
- [03 – ABS brakes]
- [Security Access – 16] (Enter code provided by VCDS software).
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “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 run the car’s ventilation fan even when the engine is off, helping to circulate air and reduce cabin temperature.
VCDS Coding:
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 6 Bit 1 – Set to 1.
- Access Hidden Menu in MMI (See “Enable Hidden Menu in MMI” section below).
- [car] [cardevicelist] [Auxiliary heating] Enable
- [08 – Auto HVAC]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “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 a real-time view of your car’s battery status.
VCDS Coding:
- Access Hidden Menu in MMI (See “Enable Hidden Menu in MMI” section below).
- [car] [cardevextdevicelist] [Battery] Enable
- [car] [carmenuoperation] [Battery] Set to 5
- Reset MMI.
- Alternative Method:
- [56 – Radio]
- Adaptation
- Channel 39, add 16 to your current value.
Enable DIS with Efficiency Program
For MY2010+ models, enable the Efficiency Program in the Driver Information System (DIS), which provides driving tips and fuel consumption information to promote more efficient driving. (Note: May not be a complete program without the Start/Stop System)
VCDS Coding:
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 77 change 0 to 255.
Enable Double Disarm Beep
Activate a double beep sound when disarming your Audi using the remote, providing audible confirmation that the car is unlocked.
VCDS Coding:
- [46 – Central Conv.]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 63 Add 4 to the current value.
Enable Gauge Test/Needle Sweep
Enable the gauge test or needle sweep feature, causing the instrument cluster needles to sweep across their full range when you start the car, adding a sporty visual effect.
VCDS Coding:
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 1 Bit 0 – Check the box for “Gauge Test/Needle Sweep active”.
Enable Hidden Menu in MMI
Unlock the hidden green menu in your MMI system, which provides access to advanced settings and diagnostic information. Use with caution and avoid modifying settings you don’t understand, especially the “Bootloader” section.
VCDS Coding:
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 6 change 0 to 1.
Accessing the Hidden Menu:
- Press and hold the [CAR] and [MENU] buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the hidden menu appears.
Enable Import CDs to MMI’s HD
Enable the function to import CDs to your MMI’s internal hard drive (if equipped), allowing you to store your music collection directly in the car.
VCDS Coding:
- Access Hidden Menu in MMI (See “Enable Hidden Menu in MMI” section above).
- Navigate to: Main/Diagnose/Settings
- Import Media
- Set to 4 of 4 “Copy/Ripping”.
Enable Independent Fog Light Control with High Beams
Allow your fog lights to remain on even when the high beams are activated. By default, fog lights usually turn off when high beams are turned on.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 4 Bit 1 – (Front) Uncheck the box or change Bit 1 to 0.
- Byte 4 Bit 2 – (Rear) Uncheck the box or change Bit 2 to 0.
Enable Lap Timer
Activate the lap timer function in your DIS, allowing you to record lap times on a track or during spirited drives.
VCDS Coding:
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 1 Bit 3 – Check the box for “Lap Timer active”.
Enable Remote Operation of Windows and Sunroof
Enable the ability to control your windows and sunroof using your key fob remote. You can open or close them by holding down the lock or unlock button.
VCDS Coding:
- [46 – Cent. Conv.]
- [Coding – 07]
- [Long Coding Helper]
- Byte 2 Bit 2 – Set to 1.
Enable Release Parking Brake without Foot on Brake
Allow releasing the electronic parking brake without having to press the brake pedal simultaneously.
VCDS Coding:
- [53 – Parking Brake]
- [Security Access – 16] (Enter code provided by VCDS software).
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 4 Set to 0.
Enable Release Parking Brake without Seatbelt
Enable releasing the electronic parking brake even if the driver’s seatbelt is not fastened.
VCDS Coding:
- [53 – Parking Brake]
- [Security Access – 16] (Enter code provided by VCDS software).
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 7 Set to 0.
Enable Reverse Mirror Tilt
Program the passenger side mirror to automatically tilt downwards when you put the car in reverse, providing a better view of the curb.
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 the current vehicle speed digitally in your MMI screen. (Note: May not work if your Audi is equipped with navigation.)
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 Audi is equipped with the necessary hardware (1AT ABS unit). Verify your ABS unit sticker to ensure compatibility (1AS unit is not compatible).
VCDS Coding:
- Access Hidden Menu in MMI (See “Enable Hidden Menu in MMI” section above).
- [car] [cardevicelist] [RDK] Enable
- [car] [carmenuoperation] [Tires Air Pressure Control] Set to 5
- [03 – ABS Brakes]
- [Security Access – 16] (Login code likely: 61378)
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 1 Bit 3 – Check “Tire Pressure Monitoring (PR-7K6) active” (1 = active).
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Coding – 07]
- Go to “Long Coding Helper”.
- Byte 4 Bit 0 – Check “Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) installed” (1 = active).
- Reset MMI.
Enable VIM (Video In Motion) on MMI
Unlock Video In Motion (VIM) functionality, allowing you to play videos on your MMI screen while the car is moving. Use responsibly and prioritize safe driving. This feature is intended for passenger use only.
VCDS Coding:
- [5F – Information Electr.]
- [Advanced ID – 1A] Note the 1st Serial number displayed.
- [Security Access] Enter Digits 6, 13, 10, 14, 11 of the 1st Serial number.
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 48 Set to 255.
- Reset MMI.
System Behavior Adjustments
Fine-tune your Audi’s system behaviors with these coding adjustments:
Set Audi Parking System Switch-Off Speed
Adjust the speed at which the Audi parking system (parking sensors) automatically deactivates.
VCDS Coding:
- [10 – Park/Steer Assist]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 23 Set to your desired speed in km/h (e.g., 20 km/h is the maximum value).
Set Custom ADS (Audi Drive Select) Settings
Force Audi Drive Select (ADS) to start in a specific mode (Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, or Individual) regardless of the previous setting.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Security Access – 16]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 63 Set to:
- 01 – Comfort
- 02 – Auto
- 03 – Dynamic
- 04 – Individual
- Repeat for Channels 64, 65, and 66, setting them to the same value as Channel 63. All four channels must be set to the same mode.
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 your desired duration in milliseconds (e.g., 500).
Set Headlight Washer Cycles
Modify the number of headlight washer cycles that occur each time you use the windscreen washer fluid.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Security Access – 16]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 26 Change to your desired number of cycles (e.g., 10).
Adjust Consumption in DIS (Fuel Economy Correction)
Calibrate the fuel consumption display in your DIS to match actual fuel economy more accurately.
VCDS Coding:
- [17 – Instruments]
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 3 Change 100 to your calculated adjustment value.
Calculation Examples:
-
Example 1 (Volume per distance e.g., l/100km):
- DIS Display: 9.3 l/100 km
- Actual Consumption: 9.8 l/100 km
- Calculation: (100 * 9.8 / 9.3 = 105.38)
- Set Channel 3 to 105.
-
Example 2 (Distance per volume e.g., MPG):
- DIS Display: 23 MPG
- Actual Consumption: 24 MPG
- Calculation: (100 * 23 / 24 = 95.83)
- Set Channel 3 to 96.
Adjust LED Brightness
Dim the brightness of your LED DRLs or other LED lights.
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Security Access – 16] (Security code may be 20113, check VCDS).
- [Adaptation – 10]
- Channel 3 Set to a value between 5 and 100 (lower value = dimmer).
Set Automatic Transmission Start Mode
Configure the default start mode for your automatic transmission (D or S).
VCDS Coding:
- [09 – Cent. Elect.]
- [Security Access – 10]
- [Adaptation 10]
- Channel 64 – Set to your desired value:
- 218 = Starting mode is always D.
- 00 = Starting mode determined by ADS selection at engine shutdown (Comfort/Auto=D, Dynamic=S, Individual=user preference).
- 03 = Starting mode is always S.
- 11 = Starting mode is S except in Comfort (D in Comfort).
- 19 = Starting mode is S except in Auto (D in Auto).
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide provides a wide array of VAG car coding options for your Audi. By utilizing a VCDS tool and following these instructions, you can personalize your vehicle to better suit your needs and preferences. Remember to proceed with caution, double-check your coding changes, and always prioritize safe and responsible vehicle modification. Explore the possibilities of VAG car coding and unlock the hidden potential of your Audi today!
