Modifying your Audi’s exterior lighting with VCDS can seem daunting, especially for beginners. Many online tutorials showcase the Long Coding Helper (LCH) for easy navigation, but what if it’s missing? This guide provides clarity on using VCDS for common exterior light modifications, even without the LCH. We’ll break down popular coding changes, focusing on byte and bit locations within module 09 – Central Electrics.
Understanding VCDS and Long Coding Helper
VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) is a powerful software used to diagnose and modify settings in Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) vehicles. The Long Coding Helper (LCH) simplifies the process by presenting coding options in a user-friendly format. However, the LCH isn’t always available, depending on the specific controller and VCDS version.
Common Audi Exterior Light Coding Modifications
Even without the LCH, you can still make desired changes by directly adjusting the binary code. Here’s a breakdown of common modifications within module 09 – Central Electrics, accessible via [Coding – 07]:
Disabling Amber Corner Lights
- Byte 10, Submodule 0, Bit 3: Set to 0. This deactivates the amber cornering lights during turn signal activation.
Enabling DRL Selectability via MMI
- Byte 3, Bit 5: Set to 1. This enables control over Daytime Running Lights (DRL) settings through the Multi Media Interface (MMI).
Disabling “Lights are on” Warning
- Byte 5, Bit 3: Set to 0. This silences the audible warning chime that sounds when the exterior lights are left on.
Enabling DRL Options
- Byte 2: This byte controls various DRL activation methods:
- Bit 1: DRL via Front Side Markers
- Bit 2: DRL via High Beams
- Bit 3: DRL via Fog Lights
- Bit 4: DRL via LEDs
- Bit 6: DRL via Side Markers
- Bit 7: DRL via Tail Lights
Set the desired bit to 1 to activate the corresponding DRL option.
Enabling Cornering Fog Lights (Curb Side Lighting)
- Byte 4, Bit 0: Set to 1. Activates the fog light on the side corresponding to the turn signal. Note: Headlights must be on without fog lights initially activated for this to function.
Keeping LED DRLs On With Turn Signals
- Byte 3, Bit 7: Change 1 to 0. This allows the LED DRLs to remain illuminated even when the turn signals are active.
Locating Bytes and Bits in VCDS
Without the LCH, you’ll see a hexadecimal string representing the long coding. Each two-digit pair represents a byte. Convert each byte to binary to identify and modify the specific bits. Numerous online resources provide byte-to-binary conversion tools. Refer to your VCDS documentation for further guidance on navigating long coding.
Conclusion
While the Long Coding Helper simplifies VCDS navigation, understanding the underlying byte and bit structure empowers you to modify your Audi’s exterior lighting even without it. This guide provides a starting point for common modifications. Always back up your original coding before making changes and proceed cautiously. Refer to reputable Audi forums and resources for detailed instructions and support specific to your model year. Incorrect coding can potentially lead to errors, so double-check your work before saving any modifications.
