Retrofitting an Active Information Display (AID) or “Virtual Cockpit” in your Volkswagen offers a significant upgrade to the driving experience. One common challenge after installation is enabling the navigation map display. This guide focuses on using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) and the critical “map switch” settings to activate navigation on your retrofitted AID. We’ll walk you through the necessary coding changes, specifically focusing on a 2017 Golf Alltrack SEL example, but the principles apply to various VW models.
After physically installing the AID, initial coding with tools like ODIS may leave the display showing a generic Golf model and lacking navigation functionality. This is where VCDS and understanding the map switch settings become essential. The map switch essentially toggles the ability to display the navigation map on the AID.
Key VCDS Adjustments for Activating the Vcds Map Switch:
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Module 17 (Instrument Cluster): Within Module 17, access the Long Coding Helper. Several critical byte adjustments are required:
- Byte 2, Bits 3-6 (Model): This setting defines your car model for the AID. Change this to the correct variant to ensure proper display representation (e.g., changing from “Variant 2” to “Variant A” in the Alltrack example).
- Byte 12, Bit 2 (Alternative Dimming): Enabling this often resolves dimming inconsistencies between the AID and other interior lights.
- Adaptations – Display Depiction: Switching to “Version 2” enables navigation map support within the AID. “Version 1” typically does not. This is a crucial step for the VCDS map switch to function correctly.
- Adaptations – Tube_version: Selecting the appropriate variant (e.g., “variant_2” for the Alltrack) ensures the correct speedometer and tachometer styles are displayed.
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Module 5F (Information Electr.): This module controls the infotainment system and its interaction with the AID.
- Byte 22, Bit 0 (Instrument Cluster Graphics): Unchecking this option allows the AID to utilize its own graphics, enabling the map display. This is another key aspect of activating the VCDS map switch.
- Adaptations: Several adaptations need adjustments:
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-ability_switch_nav_maps: Setting this to “On” activates the navigation map toggle button on your touchscreen. This is the actual “map switch” that allows you to switch between different views on the AID.
- Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_transmission_mode: Setting this to “MOST_streaming” ensures data transmission compatibility for map display.
Verification and Fine-tuning:
After making these changes, perform a test drive to confirm the navigation map displays correctly on your AID. Ensure the map switch on your touchscreen functions as intended, allowing you to toggle between different information displays.
By understanding these VCDS coding adjustments, specifically related to the map switch, you can successfully enable navigation on your retrofitted Volkswagen AID and enjoy the full functionality of your new digital cockpit. Remember to always back up your existing coding before making any changes.
