VCDS (formerly VAG-COM) is a powerful diagnostic and coding tool for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles. This guide focuses on understanding and utilizing Vagcom Vcds Coding to customize various control modules within your car.
Understanding VAGCOM VCDS Coding
Coding refers to changing the configuration settings of various control modules in your vehicle, allowing you to enable or disable features and customize functionalities. This process involves using a specific code string, which dictates the module’s behavior. VCDS provides an interface to access and modify these codes.
Recoding with VCDS
The “Recode” function in VCDS corresponds to function 07 in the older VAG 1551/1552 diagnostic tools. It allows you to adjust options within a control module.
Important Considerations Before Recoding:
- Consult Factory Repair Manual: Always refer to your car’s factory repair manual or documented procedures before attempting any coding changes. This ensures you understand the implications of each modification.
- Backup Original Coding: Record the original coding values before making any changes. This provides a safety net to revert to the factory settings if needed. There’s no automatic “undo” function.
- Login/Security Access: Some modules require a valid login or security access code before allowing recoding.
Key Features of VCDS Recoding:
- Workshop Code Flexibility: VCDS allows you to leave the Workshop Code unchanged or enter a custom one, unlike some other diagnostic tools that leave a default code.
- Importer Number: This is relevant for controllers using the KWP-2000 communication protocol. VCDS usually leaves this unchanged unless you’ve configured a specific Importer Number in the Options screen.
- Coding Charts (Registered Version): The registered version of VCDS provides coding charts within label files. These charts offer guidance on the available coding options and their effects. They appear as pop-up balloons when you click on the Software Coding field.
- Airbag Coding Suggestions (Registered Version with Professional Interface): For many VW models, VCDS can suggest appropriate coding values for new airbag modules. While not guaranteed to be correct, these suggestions can be helpful starting points. If incorrect, the module should reject the suggested code. In some cases, you may need to manually enter an index to receive coding suggestions.
Long Coding with VCDS
Modern vehicles using CAN bus communication often require Long Coding for certain modules, especially gateways. Long Coding involves strings of hexadecimal data up to 255 bytes. VCDS facilitates this process with copy and paste functionality due to the complexity of these strings.
Coding Slave Modules
VCDS allows coding of “slave” modules on newer vehicles. Both regular and long coding screens offer a drop-down list to select the specific module for coding.
Additional Coding Features in VCDS
- Battery Coding Assistant: For cars requiring battery coding in the 61-Battery Regulation module, VCDS provides a dedicated assistant to simplify the process.
- Long Coding Helper: This feature works with external applications like LCode.exe to further assist with long coding procedures. You can transfer coding from LCode to VCDS, then use the “Do It!” button to save changes.
Conclusion
VAGCOM VCDS coding offers a significant level of customization for VAG vehicles. However, it’s crucial to proceed cautiously, consult official documentation, and back up original coding before making any changes. Understanding the different coding methods and utilizing the available features within VCDS will allow you to safely and effectively tailor your vehicle’s functionalities to your needs. Remember, the full functionality of coding charts and suggestions are only available in the registered version of VCDS.
