VW Active Info Display VCDS Coding: Retrofitting AID to a Golf Alltrack

Retrofitting a Volkswagen Active Info Display (AID), also known as the Virtual Cockpit, to a Golf Alltrack significantly enhances the driving experience. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, focusing on the essential VCDS coding required for a successful installation in a 2017 Golf Alltrack SEL. While the physical installation is straightforward, correctly coding the new cluster can be challenging. This article details the necessary steps using VCDS to ensure full functionality.

Parts and Preparation for AID Retrofit

Before starting, gather the following parts, preferably using the VIN of a comparable German-spec Golf Alltrack:

• Active Information Display (AID) Cluster: 5G1 920 791
• AID Bezel: 5G0 857 189 B FQZ (Polar Night – note: this might not match your existing interior trim)
• Fiber Optic Splitter Cable: Search “18e1 Kabelsatz” on eBay (you only need the dark yellow cable).

Prior to any physical installation, connect your vehicle to VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) and create a complete backup of modules 17 (Instrument Cluster) and 5F (Information Electr.). This backup will be crucial for reference in case any issues arise.

Physical Installation of the AID Cluster

Begin by carefully removing the interior trim around the touchscreen and existing instrument cluster. Consult online resources or videos for detailed trim removal instructions, as this process can be intricate.

Next, remove the old cluster and the MIB2 head unit. Disconnect all connections to the MIB2 and run the fiber optic splitter cable from the glove box area (MIB2 location) to the opening behind the instrument cluster.

Once the new AID cluster is installed and connected, have your local VW dealership perform the initial coding and immobilizer adaptation using ODIS. Ensure module 5F is connected before this step to avoid coding errors. After ODIS coding, the AID will be functional, but the display might depict a standard Golf instead of the Alltrack variant.

VCDS Coding for the VW Active Info Display

This section details the necessary VCDS adjustments to correctly configure the AID for your Golf Alltrack.

Module 17 (Instrument Cluster):

• Byte 2, Bit 3-6: Change to 50 (Model: Variant A). This corrects the vehicle depiction in the AID.

• Byte 1, Bit 0 and Bit 3 (Optional): Enable needle sweep and lap timer functionality.

• Byte 12, Bit 2: Enable Alternative Dimming Function.

• Adaptations – Display depiction: Change from Version 1 to Version 2 to enable navigation display in the AID.

• Adaptations – Tube_version: Change to variant_2 for correct Alltrack-specific speedometer and tachometer graphics.

Module 5F (Information Electr.):

• Byte 22, Bit 0: Uncheck “Instrument Cluster Graphics [STANDARD]” to enable AID graphics.

• Byte 14, Bit 3 (Optional): Disable AM radio band to toggle between FM and Satellite radio only.

• Adaptations: Change the following channels:

  • Dashboard_Display_Configuration-ability_switch_nav_maps to On
  • Dashboard_Display_Configuration-call_picture to On
  • Dashboard_Display_Configuration-fastlist_most to On
  • Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_compression_mode to H264
  • Dashboard_Display_Configuration-navigation_map_transmission_mode to MOST_streaming

Enjoy Your Upgraded VW Golf Alltrack

After completing these VCDS coding steps, your Golf Alltrack will feature a fully functional Active Info Display. Enjoy the modern and customizable digital instrument cluster!