Vagcom, also known as VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System), is a powerful diagnostic and customization tool for Volkswagen vehicles. With VAGCOM, you can access and modify various hidden settings in your car’s control modules, allowing you to personalize its features and behavior. This guide compiles a comprehensive list of popular VAGCOM tweaks and modifications for various Volkswagen models.
Common VAGCOM Modifications
Convenience Features
- Delayed Panic Alarm: Prevent accidental triggering of the panic alarm by adding a delay. Access module 09 – Central Electronics, Security Access code 31347, Adaptations, and modify “Anti-theft device – Verzoegerung Panikalarm” to a 2-second delay.
- Disable Seatbelt Warning: Deactivate the seatbelt warning chime and light. Access module 17 – Instruments, Adaptation Channels, and enable “disable seatbelt warning.”
- Disable Door Open Tone: Silence the annoying chime when the ignition is on and the driver’s door is open. Access module 17 – Instruments, Adaptations, and change “Ignition active message; Trigger” to “No display.”
- Comfort Turn Signal Blinking: Increase the number of comfort blinks when lightly tapping the turn signal stalk. Access module 09 – Central Electronics, Adaptation Channels, and modify “Turn Signal Controls.” The default is 3, adjustable up to 5. Reset light settings to factory defaults afterward.
- Rain Closing Windows: Enable automatic window closing when rain is detected. Access module 09 – Central Electronics, Security Access code 31347, Adaptations. Set “Regenschliessen_ein aus” to Active, “Regenschliessen_art” to Permanent, and “Menuesteuerung Regenschliessen” to Active. Also, in module 09 – Central Electronics, enable Bit 2 in Byte 0 of Rain and light sensor.
Lighting Adjustments
- Full DRL Brightness for Parking Lights: Increase the brightness of the daytime running lights (DRLs) when used as parking lights. Access module 09 – Central Electronics, Security Access code 31347, Adaptations, and modify dimming values for “Leuchte2SL VLB10” and “Leuchte3SL VRB21” (specific channels may vary based on region).
- Disable DRLs: Gain control over DRL activation through the infotainment screen or disable them completely. Access module 09 – Central Electrics, Security code 31347, Adaptations, and modify “Daytime Running Lights” activation settings.
- Change Brightness of Reverse Lights: Adjust the intensity of the reverse lights. Access module 09 – Central Convenience, Security code 31347, Adaptations, and modify dimming values for “Leuchte 28RFL LC11” and “Leuchte 29RFL RA64.”
- High Beams and Fog Lights Flash Together: Enable simultaneous flashing of high beams and fog lights. Access module 09 – Central Electronics, Security code 31347, Adaptations, and modify light function settings for “Leuchte12NL LB45” and “Leuchte13NL RB5”.
Display and Instrumentation
- Gauge Sweep on Startup: Enable a dramatic needle sweep during startup. Access module 17 – Instrument Coding, Function 10, and enable bit 0 in Byte 1.
- Display Fuel Used Since Last Fill: Show the amount of fuel consumed since the last refueling. Access module 17 – Instruments, Long Coding, and enable bit 4 in Byte 10.
- Display Battery Charge Level (SOC): Enable the display of the battery’s state of charge. Access module 17 – Instruments, Adaptation Channels, and change “Battery Charge” to “active.” Access the display by holding the trip reset button with the ignition off.
- Display Driving Mode on MFD: Briefly show the current driving mode (Sport, Individual, Comfort) on the multi-function display (MFD) upon startup. Access module 19 – CAN Gateway, Long Coding, and check Bit 4 in Byte 8.
Advanced Modifications
- ESC OFF: Modify the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) button behavior. Access module 03 – ABS, Coding, Long Coding, and change byte 29 to adjust button options.
- Change Instrument Cluster to Carbon Fiber Look: Alter the appearance of the instrument cluster. Access module 17 – Instruments, STG adjustment, Function 10, and change “Channel display representation” to “Version 2.”
- Folding Mirrors with Lock/Unlock: Enable automatic mirror folding when locking and unlocking the car. Requires a hardware kit and specific coding adjustments in module 09 – Central Electronics.
- Driving School Mode: Activate a special driving mode with data logging capabilities. Requires coding changes in module 5F – Information Electr. 2.
- Passenger Mirror Dip in Reverse: Enable the passenger side mirror to automatically dip when reversing. Requires coding changes in modules 52 – Passenger door and 09 – Central Electronics.
This list provides a starting point for exploring the world of VAGCOM modifications. Remember to research each tweak thoroughly before implementing it and always back up your original coding. Incorrect coding can lead to unexpected behavior or even damage to your vehicle’s systems. Enjoy customizing your Volkswagen!