The Audi A3 8V (produced from 2012 to 2020) is built on the versatile MQB platform, which means it shares a vast library of hidden software features with other Volkswagen Group vehicles. By using tools like VCDS (Ross-Tech) or OBDeleven, owners can unlock "hidden" features or modify existing behaviors without changing physical hardware.
Below is a comprehensive coding list for the Audi A3 8V, categorized by function. Essential Tools & Safety To perform these modifications, you will need: Hardware: A Ross-Tech VCDS cable or an OBDeleven dongle.
Security Access: Many modules (especially 09-Central Electrics) require a security code to allow changes. The most common code for the 8V platform is 31347.
Backup: Always perform a full "Auto-Scan" or backup of your original module values before making any changes. 1. Dashboard & Instrumentation (Module 17)
These "cosmetic" tweaks are among the most popular for 8V owners as they change the startup experience and driver information display.
Needle Sweep (Staging): The dials perform a full sweep when the ignition is turned on.
Coding: Module 17 -> Coding -> Byte 1 -> Enable Bit 0 (Staging).
Lap Timer & Oil Temperature: Enables the lap timer and oil temp readout in the DIS, even on non-S/RS models. Coding: Module 17 -> Coding -> Byte 1 -> Enable Bit 3.
Refuel Quantity: Displays the approximate amount of fuel (in liters/gallons) needed to fill the tank. Coding: Module 17 -> Coding -> Byte 10 -> Enable Bit 4.
Seatbelt Warning Deactivation: Silences the chime and removes the dashboard light. audi+a3+8v+coding+list
Coding: Module 17 -> Adaptation -> "Deactivate seat belt warning" -> Yes. 2. Exterior Lighting (Module 09)
Customize how your DRLs, turn signals, and fog lights behave.
Pace Indicators (Semi-Dynamic): If you have LED tail lights, this offsets the inner and outer turn signal timing for a "chasing" effect.
Scandinavian DRLs: Keeps the rear tail lights on along with the front Daytime Running Lights.
Coding: Module 09 -> Adaptation -> "Tagfahrlicht-Dauerfahrlicht aktiviert zusaetzlich Standlicht" -> Active.
Comfort Turn Signal Count: Change the number of flashes (usually 3) to 4 or 5 when you tap the indicator stalk.
Coding: Module 09 -> Adaptation -> "Auussenlicht_Blinker-Komfortblinken_Blinkzyklen" -> Select 1-5.
Cornering Lights via Fog Lights: Fog lights illuminate automatically in the direction you are turning.
Coding: Module 09 -> Adaptation -> "Leuchte12NL LB45" and "Leuchte13NL RB5" -> Change "Abbiegelicht links/rechts". 3. Comfort & Convenience (Various Modules) The Audi A3 8V (produced from 2012 to
Passenger Mirror Dip in Reverse: The passenger side mirror tilts down when in reverse to help see the curb (requires the mirror switch to be in the "R" position).
Coding: Module 52 (Passenger Door) -> Coding -> Byte 4 -> Enable Bit 2 and 3.
Acoustic Lock Confirmation: Enables a short "beep" when locking or unlocking the car.
Coding: Module 09 -> Adaptation -> "Acknowledgement Signals" -> Enable "Akustische Rueckmeldung entriegeln/verriegeln".
Windows Comfort Opening/Closing: Allows you to open or close all windows by holding the lock/unlock button on the key fob.
Start/Stop Deactivation: While not a direct "off" switch, you can often "trick" the system by changing the voltage limit or ambient temperature requirements. 4. MMI & Infotainment (Module 5F) Audi A3 8V MMI (MSTD) red hidden menu (engineering mode)
Audi A3 8V (2013β2020), "developing" or activating features involves using diagnostic tools like VCDS (VAG-COM) or OBDeleven to access specific control modules. These modifications, often called "adaptations" or "long coding," unlock hidden factory settings that were either disabled by default or reserved for higher trim levels. Popular Coding Features for Audi A3 8V 1. Instrumentation & Dashboard
Needle Sweep (Staging): Causes gauge needles to sweep their full range when the ignition is turned on.
VCDS Path: Module 17 (Instruments) β Coding-07 β Long Coding Helper β Byte 1 β Enable Bit 0. Part 4: Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting 4
Laptimer & Oil Temperature: Adds a dedicated lap timer and real-time oil temperature display to the driver information system (DIS).
Refuel Quantity: Displays the estimated amount of fuel (in liters or gallons) needed to fill the tank. 2. Exterior Lighting & Mirrors HOW TO: AUDI REVERSE MIRROR DIP - Audi A3 A4 A5 A6 A7
| Feature | Module | Typical byte/bit (example) | |---|---:|---| | Mirror fold on lock | 09 | byte 0x0B, bit 3 | | Mirror tilt on reverse | 09 | byte 0x0C, bit 2 | | DRL mode change | Lighting | byte 0x05, bit 1 | | Auto-lock above speed | 09 | byte 0x10, bit 0 | | Digital speed in cluster | 17 | byte 0x12, bit 4 | | Disable start/stop | 01 / Engine | adaptation or byte toggle |
For MIB1 or MIB2 systems. Often requires VCP or Green Menu (hidden menu).
| Feature | Instructions |
| :--- | :--- |
| Video in Motion (VIM) | Play DVD/USB video while driving.
5F > Coding > Byte 24 > Change from 06 to 04 (MIB2) OR 22 to 02 (MIB1) |
| Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) | Display speed limits in cluster.
5F > Adaptations > Car_Function_List_BAP_Gen2 > traffic_sign_recognition_0x21 > Activated
Then A5 (Front Camera) > Coding > Byte 2 > Enable Bit 0 & Bit 1 |
| Battery Level Display | Shows % charge in MMI.
5F > Adaptations > Battery level display > Active |
| Audi Drive Select via MMI | Unlock driving modes (if not factory).
09 > Coding > Byte 7 > Enable Bit 5 AND Bit 6 |
| Feature | Adaptation | Setting |
|--------|------------|---------|
| Battery level display | Battery level display | Active |
| Audi drive select menu | Car_Function_Adaptations_Gen2-menu_display_drive_select | Active |
| Ambient lighting menu (if RGB LED) | Car_Function_Adaptations_Gen2-menu_display_ambient_lighting | Active |
| Activate hidden MMI menu (green menu) | Enable developer mode: Development mode | Active |
| Video in motion (VIM) | Speedlock at speed | 0 (or via patch) |
| Needle test in MMI | Display needle test | Active |
| Oil temperature in MMI | Oil temperature display | Active |
| Turn off disclaimer | Disclaimer | Not active |
| Coding Option | Description | | --- | --- | | 01 | MMI Radio | | 02 | MMI Navigation | | 03 | MMI Navigation Plus | | ... | ... |
| Feature | Adaptation | Value |
|--------|------------|-------|
| Lane Assist (if camera present) | Lane assist | Active |
| Traffic jam assist (with ACC) | Traffic jam assist | Active |
| Steering wheel vibration (for lane departure) | Vibration threshold | High / Medium |