Audi’s Drive Select system allows drivers to customize their driving experience. While some modes like Comfort and Dynamic are standard, others, like Race mode, might be hidden. This guide will walk you through activating hidden Audi Drive Select modes, specifically focusing on how to enable Audi Vcds Race Mode using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System).
Understanding Audi Drive Select and VCDS
Audi Drive Select modifies throttle response, steering feel, transmission shift points, and suspension settings (if applicable) to provide distinct driving experiences. VCDS, a diagnostic tool, allows access to the car’s control modules to customize various settings, including Drive Select. Accessing these settings requires understanding binary code and how each bit corresponds to a specific driving mode.
Activating Audi VCDS Race Mode: Step-by-Step Instructions
This guide focuses on a 2013 Audi A5 Sportback S-Line Quattro with MMI 3G Plus as an example. While the process is generally similar across various Audi models, slight variations might exist. Always consult your vehicle’s specific documentation.
- Connect and Access Module: Connect your VCDS cable to the OBD-II port and launch the VCDS software on your computer. Select “Select Control Module.”
- Choose Central Electrics: Navigate to “09 – Cent. Elect.” This module controls various vehicle functions, including Drive Select.
- Security Access: Click on “Security Access.” You’ll need the appropriate security access code for your specific vehicle model. This information can often be found online in VCDS user forums or documentation.
- Adaptation: Enter the security access code and confirm. Once access is granted, click on “Adaptation – 10.”
- Drive Select Standard Setting: Locate “Drive Select Standard Setting.” The channel number might vary, but it’s often channel 66. Read the current value.
- Understanding Binary Values: Each Drive Select mode corresponds to a specific bit in a byte of data. The bits are numbered from right to left, starting with Bit 1.
- Bit 1: Individual (Decimal Value 1, Binary 00000001)
- Bit 2: Comfort (Decimal Value 2, Binary 00000010)
- Bit 3: Auto (Decimal Value 4, Binary 00000100)
- Bit 4: Dynamic (Decimal Value 8, Binary 00001000)
- Bit 5: Offroad/Race (Decimal Value 16, Binary 00010000) – Controlled by Bit 7
- Bit 6: Efficiency (Decimal Value 32, Binary 00100000)
- Bit 7: Offroad/Race Switch (Decimal Value 64, Binary 01000000) – Enables either Offroad or Race, not both.
- Calculating Your Desired Value: Determine which modes you want active. For example, enabling Individual, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Race would require setting Bit 7 to enable Race and then adding the decimal values for the other desired modes (1 + 2 + 4 + 8 + 64 = 79).
- Inputting the New Value: Enter the calculated decimal value into the “New Value” field.
- Test and Save: Test the new configuration by cycling through the Drive Select modes on your MMI. If everything works as expected, click “Save” and then “Done, Go Back.” Exit VCDS.
Important Considerations for Audi VCDS Race Mode
Race mode is designed for track use. Activating it on public roads may be illegal and dangerous. Enabling Race mode may void your warranty. Always exercise caution and responsibility when modifying vehicle settings. This guide is for informational purposes only.
