This article outlines several VCDS tweaks and adaptations for a 2017 Volkswagen Passat (B8). These modifications allow for customization of various vehicle features using a VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) interface. These tweaks were successfully implemented on a 2017 Passat and shared to potentially help other owners.
Popular 2017 Passat VCDS Modifications
Here’s a breakdown of some common VCDS adjustments for the 2017 Passat:
XDS Adjustment for Enhanced Handling
- Control Unit: 03 (ABS)
- Adaptation Channel: Expanded Electronic Differential Lock
- Change: Standard to Strong
This modification strengthens the XDS (Electronic Differential Lock) function, providing improved handling and reducing understeer during spirited driving. It electronically simulates a limited-slip differential for better traction.
Increased Fan Speed in Auto Mode
- Control Unit: 08 (Air Conditioning/A/C)
- Long Coding: Byte 11, Bit 6
- Change: Deactivate to Activate
Activating this bit increases the fan speed in automatic climate control mode, potentially improving cooling performance. This can be beneficial in hotter climates.
Earlier Hill Start Assist Engagement
- Control Unit: 03 (ABS Brakes)
- Adaptation Channel: Hill Start Assistant
- Change: Normal to Early
This adjustment makes the Hill Start Assist engage earlier, preventing rollback on inclines. The “Early” setting provides a more noticeable and proactive hill hold function.
More Responsive Auto Hold
- Control Unit: 03 (ABS Brakes)
- Adaptation Channel: Dynamic Starting Assist
- Change: Normal to Early
Similar to the Hill Start Assist modification, this tweak makes the Auto Hold feature (also known as Dynamic Starting Assist) more responsive, engaging quicker and holding the brakes more firmly when the vehicle comes to a stop.
Enabling Needle Sweep on Startup
- Control Unit: 17 (Instruments)
- Long Coding: Byte 1, Bit 0
- Change: Disable to Enable
This popular visual modification enables a needle sweep on startup, where the gauges move to their maximum range and back to their resting position. It adds a sporty touch to the vehicle’s startup sequence.
Adjusting Comfort Turn Signal Blinks
- Control Unit: 09 (Central Electrics)
- Security Access Code: 31347
- Adaptation Channel: Comfort Blink Cycle
- Change: 3 to 4 (Valid values are 1-5)
- Additional Step: Reset the light controls in the navigation system: CAR > Setup > Reset to factory settings > Reset individual settings > Light
This modification changes the number of times the turn signals blink when the stalk is tapped lightly. Changing the value from 3 to 4 increases the number of blinks to four.
Original Autoscan Data
The original VCDS autoscan of the 2017 Passat before these adaptations were made is included below. This data provides a snapshot of the vehicle’s control module information and any existing fault codes. Note that several modules showed malfunctions, which may be unrelated to the tweaks performed.
Conclusion
These VCDS tweaks offer a way to personalize your 2017 Passat. Remember to proceed cautiously when modifying vehicle settings and ensure you have a proper understanding of VCDS before making any changes. Incorrect adjustments could potentially lead to unexpected behavior or even damage to vehicle systems. Always back up your original coding before making any modifications.
