Upgrading your Volkswagen with an Active Info Display (AID)? This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, focusing on the crucial VCDS coding steps required to activate and customize your new digital instrument cluster. We’ll cover the necessary modifications for a seamless integration, ensuring your AID functions flawlessly.
This retrofit was performed on a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack SEL. While the physical installation is relatively straightforward, correctly coding the AID can be challenging. This guide details the precise VCDS adjustments needed for a successful activation.
Parts and Preparation
Before diving into VCDS, gather the following:
- Active Info Display (AID) cluster: Part number 5G1 920 791.
- AID Bezel: Part number 5G0 857 189 B FQZ (Polar Night). Note: This bezel color may not match your existing interior trim.
- Fiber Optic Splitter Cable: Source this from online marketplaces like eBay. Ensure it’s the dark yellow cable specifically designed for this purpose.
Prior to installation:
- Back up existing coding: Using VCDS, create a complete backup of modules 17 (Instrument Cluster) and 5F (Information Electr.). This is crucial for restoring original settings if needed.
- Disconnect Battery Disconnecting the battery negative terminal is a safety precaution to prevent short circuits.
Installing the Hardware
The physical installation involves removing the old cluster, installing the new AID, and routing the fiber optic splitter cable from the head unit (MIB2) to the back of the AID. This process requires careful disassembly of the dashboard trim and potentially removing the head unit. Consult your vehicle’s service manual or online resources for detailed instructions.
Initial Coding with ODIS
After the hardware installation, your Volkswagen dealership will need to perform initial coding using ODIS, Volkswagen’s official diagnostic software. This step is essential for pairing the AID to your car and immobilizer. Ensure module 5F (MIB2) is connected before ODIS coding to avoid potential issues. After ODIS coding, the AID will be functional, but likely with incorrect graphical representations for your specific model. This is where VCDS comes in.
VCDS Coding: Fine-Tuning the AID
Here’s how to use VCDS (Active Info Display Vcds coding) to configure the AID correctly:
Module 17 (Instrument Cluster):
- Byte 2, Bit 3-6: Change to
50(Model: Variant A). This corrects the car model displayed on the AID. - Byte 1, Bit 0 and Bit 3 (Optional): Enable needle sweep on startup and lap timer functionality.
- Byte 12, Bit 2: Enable Alternative Dimming Function.
Module 17 (Instrument Cluster) – Adaptations:
- Display depiction: Change from
Version 1toVersion 2to enable navigation display on the AID. - Tube_version: Change to
variant_2for Alltrack-specific speedometer and tachometer displays.
Module 5F (Information Electr.):
- Byte 22, Bit 0: Uncheck “Instrument Cluster Graphics [STANDARD]” to enable the AID graphics.
- Byte 14, Bit 3 (Optional): Disable AM radio band if desired, allowing toggling between FM and Satellite radio only.
Module 5F (Information Electr.) – Adaptations:
Enable the following:
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-ability_switch_nav_maps:
On(Enables the navigation map toggle on the touchscreen). - Dashboard_Display_Configuration-call_picture:
On - Dashboard_Display_Configuration-fastlist_most:
On - Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_compression_mode:
H264 - Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_transmission_mode:
MOST_streaming
Enjoy Your New AID!
After completing these VCDS coding steps, your Active Info Display should be fully functional and customized for your Volkswagen Alltrack.
