The exhaust valve position on a 2019 VW Golf is determined by the selected Driving Mode. This functionality is controlled by the driving mode (FPA) dataset within the gateway module (Module 19). Analysis of Golf R datasets reveals three distinct exhaust valve positions:
- Comfort and Eco: Position “1” (likely closed)
- Normal: Position “2” (assumed mid-range)
- Race: Position “3” (assumed open)
Following an ignition cycle, the exhaust valves default to the Normal position (Position 2, mid-range). This behavior is consistent across various systems affected by Driving Modes. For instance, the DSG gearbox also reverts to Normal after ignition, regardless of the previously selected mode. The engine mode follows the same pattern.
To re-engage Race mode for the exhaust valves, engine, and DSG, you need to cycle through the available Driving Modes or re-select Race mode on the Individual settings page. It’s important to note that the exhaust valves and the soundaktor are grouped under “Engine Sound” and are therefore adjusted simultaneously.
While there’s a setting in Module 01 (Engine) that might influence exhaust valve behavior, its effectiveness is uncertain. Verification through sound or visual inspection is recommended to confirm whether the valves are in Normal (mid-range) or Race (open) positions. If the Module 01 setting has no impact, a “tissue test” might falsely indicate functionality due to the valves defaulting to Normal after ignition.
A slight RPM increase upon clutch release is considered normal and observed in various VW models, likely as a stall prevention mechanism.
As an unrelated observation, DSG Coasting defaults to Normal mode after each ignition cycle. While DSG Coasting offers Normal and Eco modes, selecting Eco mode requires cycling through the Driving Modes again after restarting the vehicle. This nuance might be less familiar to Golf R drivers who seldom utilize Eco mode.
