I’ve had my 2016 L&K 190 DSG for a couple of weeks now, and I already have an urge to tinker...

 

I have a new wheel with DSG paddles arriving tomorrow (and the M12 spline nut) and I’m looking at enabling the full potential using VCDS.

 

I’ve looked at the excellent VCDS tried & tested adaptations thread and am considering the following:

 

Enable High beam assist

Enable Tailgate closing from inside (button on centre console)

Change Throttle response to Audi settings

Disable stop start  (so can turn on with button but doesn’t reset after engine off?) OR so it remembers the OFF setting when turned off?   Or is it only possible to have it permanently disabled?

Enable both rear fogs

Enable DRLs menu in the MIB2

Enable blower speed when set to auto

Enable refuel qty on maxi dot

Enable Driving mode display on maxi dot

 

From what I’ve read it seems that I’ll need either the HEX-V2 or HEX-NET for this model - or of course I need to supply beer tokens to my local Briskoda sponsored VCDS guru!  Will either version do the job or is one more suitable than the other?

 

Also, if I do borrow a VCDS interface, will it work over USB on a Mac running Windows 7 via boot camp, or do I need a genuine Windows laptop?

Hi,

 

Sorry, but VCDS won't allow you to enable tailgate closing from the inside. You need VCP for that.

Note that if you switch to Audi Throttle response you may lose the mode selection of the DCC if you have it. This has been frequently reported.

Regarding refuel quantitu on maxi dot. It's awfully useless. Indeed, it only gives you volume to be refilled with poor resolution (5 liter steps --> assumed to be 1 gal for UK)

 

I can't answer other questions. I do use a Laptop fitted with Windows10.

 

 

15 minutes ago, Bap33 said:

Hi,

 

Sorry, but VCDS won't allow you to enable tailgate closing from the inside. You need VCP for that.

Note that if you switch to Audi Throttle response you may lose the mode selection of the DCC if you have it. This has been frequently reported.

Regarding refuel quantitu on maxi dot. It's awfully useless. Indeed, it only gives you volume to be refilled with poor resolution (5 liter steps --> assumed to be 1 gal for UK)

 

I can't answer other questions. I do use a Laptop fitted with Windows10.

 

 

 

Thanks for your help and advice, so if I change to Audi throttle settings, will I perhaps lost the DCC options altogether, or just the setting that allows you to choose between normal and sport for throttle response?

 

And is it reversible?   Can I change back if it does bugger up DCC?

As far as I know, it makes the DCC somehow inoperative. I can just advise you to read the "tried & tested adaptation" to be sure...

The good news is that it is reversible.  

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

Enable Tailgate closing from inside (button on centre console)

 

Some can be done with VCP, depends on the controller fitted. 

 

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

Change Throttle response to Audi settings

 

Personally not had an issue with any of the cars I have done, it’s can’t be user error (unless they are not using VCDS, as it’s one of the easiest changes to make) 

 

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

Disable stop start  (so can turn on with button but doesn’t reset after engine off?) OR so it remembers the OFF setting when turned off?   Or is it only possible to have it permanently disabled?

 

Only permanently off to my knowledge 

 

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

Enable both rear fogs

 

Apparantly there are no LED’s inside the n/s fog light cluster

 

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

From what I’ve read it seems that I’ll need either the HEX-V2 or HEX-NET for this model - or of course I need to supply beer tokens to my local Briskoda sponsored VCDS guru!  Will either version do the job or is one more suitable than the other?

 

Either will do. 

5 hours ago, daveb99 said:

Also, if I do borrow a VCDS interface, will it work over USB on a Mac running Windows 7 via boot camp, or do I need a genuine Windows laptop?

 

I run VCDS (& VCP) on my MBP via boot camp without issue. 

Edited 12 March, 20197 yr by Gizmo

Thanks for the comprehensive reply, that’s very useful indeed, so it sounds like the Audi throttle settings shouldn’t upset the DCC unless it’s done incorrectly or with non-genuine software perhaps.

 

So once changed to the Audi throttle map, does that become the default “normal” setting in DCC?    Or would changing it to normal reset it back to the (laggy) default?

No, the Audi mod simply removes most of the lag in all mode settings, if nobody told you it had been done then you wouldn’t know anything had been changed as it is nearly how it should have left the factory. 

Brilliant - sounds perfect, thanks 

Another quick question, if I were to purchase my own genuine VCDS and also offer the service to others (I am an IT professional of nearly 25 yrs & very thorough with these things), what’s the done thing in terms of coding other people’s cars?   I presume the owner of the car does the research, understands that it’s done at their risk, and simply says what they wish to code/enable/tweak?   Is there a ‘going rate’ or anything like that, or do we normally just ask for beer money etc?

 

I’d like to help others out with such things, so it would be good to understand the way it usually works.  I realise I would need an unlimited VIN version.

I like to do my own research as coding can and does change, so relying on other people’s instructions has to be done with caution. 

 

Some people charge a set amount, but most do it for ‘a drink’

Quick update - I've now purchased a genuine VCDS HEX-V2 interface from Ilexa, one of the official Ross Tech UK distributors.   It's arriving tomorrow so I'm just doing a bit of preparatory research, downloading the software etc.

 

I intend to offer the service to other owners, once I have got my head around it a little more, but in the meantime here is the list of things I'd like to code, following the responses I've seen on here and in other threads:

 

Enable High beam assist 

Change Throttle response to Audi settings

Enable DRLs menu in the MIB2

Enable blower speed when set to auto

Enable refuel qty on maxi dot

Enable Driving mode display on maxi dot

Change upper threshold for cornering fogs (not sure what to, yet!)

Fog lights as coming home lights

Customize colour of ambient lighting

Automatically change clock to BST

Activate off road display

 

Have I missed anything?!   Any tips on getting started (and not making mistakes!) would be much appreciated.

 

22 minutes ago, daveb99 said:

Quick update - I've now purchased a genuine VCDS HEX-V2 interface from Ilexa, one of the official Ross Tech UK distributors.   It's arriving tomorrow so I'm just doing a bit of preparatory research, downloading the software etc.

 

I intend to offer the service to other owners, once I have got my head around it a little more, but in the meantime here is the list of things I'd like to code, following the responses I've seen on here and in other threads:

 

Enable High beam assist 

Change Throttle response to Audi settings

Enable DRLs menu in the MIB2

Enable blower speed when set to auto

Enable refuel qty on maxi dot

Enable Driving mode display on maxi dot

Change upper threshold for cornering fogs (not sure what to, yet!)

Fog lights as coming home lights

Customize colour of ambient lighting

Automatically change clock to BST

Activate off road display

 

Have I missed anything?!   Any tips on getting started (and not making mistakes!) would be much appreciated.

 

Too bad I missed your thread otherwise I would have recommended an OBDEleven for one fourth of the cost of the VCDS which would be ideal for the type of coding you're interested in. 4 years since I've switched to it, 5 different cars and probably more than a hundred adaptations and long coding in total, haven't come across something it couldn't do compared to VCDS and in one case it was actually the opposite that happened (VIM enabling)...
 

Edited 25 March, 20197 yr by newbie69

2 minutes ago, newbie69 said:

Too bad I missed your thread otherwise I would have recommended an OBDEleven for one fourth of the cost of the VCDS which would be ideal for the type of coding you're interested in. 4 years since I've switched to it, 5 different cars and probably more than a hundred adaptations and long coding in total, haven't come across something it couldn't do compared to VCDS and in one case it was actually the opposite that happened (VIM enabling)...
 

 

Now you tell me!   I haven’t seen any real discussion or coverage of OBDEleven on this forum, how does it work with VINs, licences etc?

13 minutes ago, daveb99 said:

 

Now you tell me!   I haven’t seen any real discussion or coverage of OBDEleven on this forum, how does it work with VINs, licences etc?

Sorry. The VCDS still cashes out on its much greater age and reputation (naturally) but it's exactly those type of casual users like yourself that would benefit from the OBDEleven the most. The word is out on the VW forums but there's still many more people to reach out to till everyone can make an informed choice.

Could you return the VCDS if you chose so? Especially if you don't unpack etc?

I can probably answer most of your questions about it if you have any but in short, it provides access to (every?) long coding and adaptation the standard VCDS HEX does, by following the exact same instructions as posted on VCDS forums/threads. Then if you're lazy it has preset applications for several stuff which work with credits. Those are purchased (rather cheap) but you don't need to do those via the preset apps, you can do all of it via detailed coding manually (as you would have to do with VCDS anyway...).

And there is no limitation on its use if you buy the Pro Version (which together with the dongle costs ~55 pounds as I said). I have been helping every VAG car owner I know (friends, colleagues) with various stuff they wanted activated, for free, as it is free for me also.

The only requirement per se is to have an Android phone, but it's so much cheaper (and easier) than VCDS that most iPhone users buy a cheapo Android just to use with the app and still save a lot of cash.
 

Edited 25 March, 20197 yr by newbie69

7 minutes ago, newbie69 said:

Sorry. The VCDS still cashes out on its much greater age and reputation (naturally) but it's exactly those type of casual users like yourself that would benefit from the OBDEleven the most. The word is out on the VW forums but there's still many more people to reach out to till everyone can make an informed choice.

Could you return the VCDS if you chose so? Especially if you don't unpack etc?

I can probably answer most of your questions about it if you have any but in short, it provides access to (every?) long coding and adaptation the standard VCDS HEX does, by following the exact same instructions as posted on VCDS forums/threads. Then if you're lazy it has preset applications for several stuff which work with credits. Those are purchased (rather cheap) but you don't need to do those via the preset apps, you can do all of it via detailed coding manually (as you would have to do with VCDS anyway...).

And there is no limitation on its use if you buy the Pro Version (which together with the dongle costs ~55 pounds as I said). I have been helping every VAG car owner I know (friends, colleagues) with various stuff they wanted activated, for free, as it is free for me also.
 

 

Thanks, that sounds like it could be an option, I’ll perhaps enquire about returning the VCDS, not sure yet.   I see that the OBDEleven needs an Android device though, which I don’t have, but I could buy a dirt cheap Kindle Fire or something?   Then my daughter could use it for reading too.  Happy to do the long coding, being an IT bod...

 

Edit - how much is the OBDEleven Pro and where’s the best (cheapest) place to get it from?   Any issues with connectivity, I’m concerned that it’s Wi-fi (or Bluetooth when in use in the car) compared to the wired connection of a VCDS HEX-V2?

Edited 25 March, 20197 yr by daveb99

3 minutes ago, daveb99 said:

 

Thanks, that sounds like it could be an option, I’ll perhaps enquire about returning the VCDS, not sure yet.   I see that the OBDEleven needs an Android device though, which I don’t have, but I could buy a dirt cheap Kindle Fire or something?   Then my daughter could use it for reading too.  Happy to do the long coding, being an IT bod...

Yeap, I added this to my reply above after I originally posted it, you need some Android device, don't think the Kindle Fire is the ideal Android variant for this though? No idea on the detail specs of the Kindle but you need decent Bluetooth and internet connectivity (any cheap but modern phone or tablet would do).

Even if you spent another 50 pounds on a device that you could just leave in the car I would still say it's worth it. Easier to work with in terms of interface, integrated changes history, cloud syncing (you never lose track of what you've done even if you lose/change your device and no need for manually keeping a log of changes you've done). You could check on YT on how the app looks like but it's really a piece of cake compare to VCDS (not that you sound as you'd struggle with that.

PS. iPhone?! What sort of IT bod does not have a rooted, heavily customized Android ?? 

So picture this....

 

Lets all go out any buy  OBDEleven, after all it’s cheaper, then when Ross-Tech call it a day and stop supporting VCDS who are OBDEleven going to copy for its updates?

1 minute ago, newbie69 said:

Yeap, I added this to my reply above after I originally posted it, you need some Android device, don't think the Kindle Fire is the ideal Android variant for this though? No idea on the detail specs of the Kindle but you need decent Bluetooth and internet connectivity (any cheap but modern phone or tablet would do).

Even if you spent another 50 pounds on a device that you could just leave in the car I would still say it's worth it. Easier to work with in terms of interface, integrated changes history, cloud syncing (you never lose track of what you've done even if you lose/change your device and no need for manually keeping a log of changes you've done). You could check on YT on how the app looks like but it's really a piece of cake compare to VCDS (not that you sound as you'd struggle with that.

PS. iPhone?! What sort of IT bod does not have a rooted, heavily customized Android ?? 

 

Haha cheers - yes I know, but in my defence it goes back to when they were giving iPhones out at work, I've just never switched over to Android (yet).

 

I'll see what the return policy is with Ilexa.

 

So in terms of using the ODBeleven, with the Pro version you can use it on an unlimited number of VAG vehicles?   I was looking at a Fire 7 anyway for my daughter (has decent wifi and Bluetooth) so I presume that would do the job?

2 minutes ago, Gizmo said:

So picture this....

 

Lets all go out any buy  OBDEleven, after all it’s cheaper, then when Ross-Tech call it a day and stop supporting VCDS who are OBDEleven going to copy for its updates?

 

It sounds like VCDS is the real pro tool though - i.e. for professional users, garages, people doing this kind of thing for a living (as well as casual / enthusiast users too).  I can't imagine Ross-Tech going out of business any time soon, looking at recent sales of VCDS interfaces on a well known auction site, as it seems there is still huge demand for both the latest models as well as the older HEX-CAN and VAG-COM stuff - genuine ones anyway.

 

I'll look into the OBDEleven option, but the ongoing demand for VCDS gives me the feeling that it's a safe thing to hang onto - financially - and it might just bring me some beers or equivalent at some stage too.   I have gone for the 10-VIN version so I can upgrade it to unlimited in one step, should I choose to.   I quite like the idea of helping others out with fault codes, some coding etc in exchange for a few beers or a few quid, time permitting (although I realise I could do that with OBDeleven too).

 

 

24 minutes ago, Gizmo said:

So picture this....

 

Lets all go out any buy  OBDEleven, after all it’s cheaper, then when Ross-Tech call it a day and stop supporting VCDS who are OBDEleven going to copy for its updates?

I wouldn't know about that, plus I doubt OBDEleven is an illegal product, at least in the sense of HEX cable clones? Haven't seen many (any...) pirate service apps on Google Play either to assume the OBDEleven is also one. Is there a legal dispute between the two companies?

Not everyone would go and buy an OBDEleven over a VCDS surely, I can see the reliability that professionals need with a cable connection. But honestly, for enthusiasts that will use it occasionally on their car or on their friends I wouldn't look anywhere else.

Edited 25 March, 20197 yr by newbie69

40 minutes ago, daveb99 said:

So in terms of using the ODBeleven, with the Pro version you can use it on an unlimited number of VAG vehicles?   I was looking at a Fire 7 anyway for my daughter (has decent wifi and Bluetooth) so I presume that would do the job?

I believe so yes. At least there is no mention of any car number limitation and I've used it on at least 10 cars including the really random ones that wanted the odd favour.

28 minutes ago, newbie69 said:

I believe so yes. At least there is no mention of any car number limitation and I've used it on at least 10 cars including the really random ones that wanted the odd favour.

 

Ok thanks.  I’m edging towards keeping the VCDS, not only to support Ross Tech but also to help others with it too, locally, perhaps even offering a service for a few quid to include a diagnostic check and coding, etc.

 

I have just found another couple of adaptations I want to apply on P57 of the big Superb VCDS thread, my list is getting longer.  Thanks to Tin82 for these.

 

Lock car with engine running with KESSY. 

 

09-Central Elect. 

Adaptation. 

 

ENG1411651-ENG115754-ZV allgemein-Funk bei klemme 15 ein 

Change from not active to active

 

Ideal to defrost windows with engine running. 

 

Disable orange led in Drive mode select/DCC button. 

 

This one annoyed me. The orange button is lit when you select another profile than normal.

This is the solution. 

 

09-Central Elect. 

Adaptation

 

IDE06507-ENG140243-Button in center console-Zusatzcodierung Fahrprofiltaster hat keine LED

Change from LED installed to LED not installed

 

Automatic brake releases with less throttle

 

03-Brakes

Security access: 11966

Adaptation

 

IDE05055-Hydraulic brake assistant

Change from normal to early

So given my discovery of the above, here is my list now.  I’ve removed the 'fog lights as DRLs' one, since I haven’t replaced the bulbs yet, and once I’ve enabled the DRLs menu in the MIB2 I can just turn them off temporarily while coding to preserve the battery.  I already have the Traffic Sign assist (Travel Assist option) so don’t need that.

 

Enable High beam assist 

Change Throttle response to Audi settings

Enable DRLs menu in the MIB2

Enable blower speed when set to auto

Enable refuel qty on maxi dot

Enable Driving mode display on maxi dot

Change upper threshold for cornering fogs (not sure what to, yet!)

Customize colour of ambient lighting

Automatically change clock to BST

Activate off road display

Lock car with engine running with KESSY

Disable orange LED in drive mode select / DCC button

Parking brake releases with less throttle

 

Any thoughts or comments, or problems encountered with an of the above?

 

 

57 minutes ago, daveb99 said:

Ok thanks.  I’m edging towards keeping the VCDS, not only to support Ross Tech but also to help others with it too, locally, perhaps even offering a service for a few quid to include a diagnostic check and coding, etc.

Well any decision is fine by me! I don't represent any company and as such I don't have any reason to particularly support either, I just wanted to make you and others aware of another option out there. Voltas IT (the OBDEleven developers) are a legitimate company as far as I know that employ a few software engineers working, updating and enhancing the app. I remember some time ago I had sent them a request about some function on a previous car and they sent me back a detailed technical answer after they'd investigated.

If it's about helping others though, OBDEleven would make more sense since you don't have to worry about wasting your VINs for pennies/beers? How much is the upgrade to unlimited VINs? I have never looked at the prices of other than the cables themselves.

Now that I think about, even if it's about making money the OBDEleven again makes more sense since it has a much lower "investment" cost. Say you charged 5 pounds for each mod you could be making money after just 10 operations! 

PS. I'd be interested to see if "fog lights as coming home lights" is do-able on a MY19 car following the old instructions as I didn't seem to locate the adaptations where they should be on mine and I was wondering if it has to do with OBDEleven or they've just moved them from where they were.
 

Adaptations do move around fairly frequently