The Ross-Tech VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) is a powerful tool for diagnosing and customizing your Audi A4 B8. This article outlines some popular tweaks you can perform on your B8 A4 (and other compatible B8 platform vehicles like the S4, A5, and S5) using a genuine Ross-Tech VCDS interface. Remember, these modifications are performed at your own risk. Always ensure you’re using the latest VCDS software and a genuine Ross-Tech HEX-COM+CAN or HEX-USB+CAN interface for optimal compatibility with your vehicle’s CAN-Bus and UDS diagnostic systems.
Common VCDS Modifications for the Audi B8 Platform
Several coding changes can enhance your B8 A4 experience. Before starting, familiarize yourself with general diagnostic procedures for the Audi A4/S4 (8K) and A5/S5 (8T) on the Ross-Tech Wiki: Ross-Tech WIKI: Diagnostic Procedures: Audi A4/S4 (8K) and Ross-Tech WIKI: Diagnostic Procedures: Audi A5/S5 (8T).
Disabling the Seatbelt Chime
To disable the seatbelt chime reminder:
- Select:
[17 - Instruments] - Coding:
[07] - Long Coding Helper: Open the Long Coding Helper.
- Seatbelt Warning: Uncheck the box for “Seatbelt Warning active”.
- Save: Close the Long Coding Helper and click
[Do It!]to save the new coding.
Activating Gauge Test/Needle Sweep
Enjoy a dramatic needle sweep on startup by enabling the gauge test:
- Select:
[17 - Instruments] - Coding:
[07] - Long Coding Helper: Open the Long Coding Helper.
- Gauge Test: Check the box for “Gauge Test/Needle Sweep active”.
- Save: Close the Long Coding Helper and click
[Do It!]to save the coding.
Enabling the Lap Timer
Activate the built-in lap timer in your instrument cluster:
- Select:
[17 - Instruments] - Coding:
[07] - Long Coding Helper: Access the Long Coding Helper.
- Lap Timer: Check the box labeled “Lap Timer active”.
- Save: Exit the Long Coding Helper and confirm the change with
[Do It!].
Controlling Windows and Sunroof with the Remote
Conveniently operate your windows and sunroof (closing only) with your remote:
- Select:
[46 - Cent. Conv.] - Coding:
[07] - Long Coding Helper: Open the Long Coding Helper.
- Comfort Operation: Check “Comfort Operation: Remote Control active”.
- Save: Close the Long Coding Helper and click
[Do It!]to apply the changes.
Voice Control Activation
For information on enabling voice control in US-market S5 models, refer to this AudiWorld forum thread: http://forums.audiworld.com/a5/msgs/15745.phtml.
These are just a few examples of the customizations possible with Ross-Tech VCDS and your B8 A4. Remember to research thoroughly and proceed cautiously when modifying your vehicle’s settings. A genuine Ross-Tech VCDS is essential for safe and reliable coding changes.
