Audi Drive Select (ADS) retrofitted

[a4audio]

I've been doing so research into installing and enabling the ADS system on my car for some time and finally did it last weekend. I had read mixed reviews as to whether or not this was worth it, on a car without the active dampers or active steering, but I can report that it does make a big difference to the standard power steering and engine throttle response. In comfort mode, the throttle seems very smooth and progressive, and the power steering light and easy to move the wheel, Auto mode is back to the factory standard, and Dynamic sharpens up everything. The best way I can describe the throttle response is like chipping the engine, you get a strong surge of power without having to depress the pedal as much and the power steering is firm and a lot more responsive and sharp.

All in all it cot me £110 in parts from the Audi garage: switch, console surround, and some repair wires, and a 5 amp fuse. Took me about 2hrs start to finish, including the VCDS changes.

Credit for this must got to this site for the parts list and how to guide, although the fuse box for correct installation was slightly different, and I was fitting this on a non MMI car.


AudiEnthusiasts Vag Com (http://www.audienthusiasts.com/Project_ADS.html)

all in all a worthwhile mod.

[Dieseldoos]

I have set up the engine and steering using VCDS and enabled it so its controlled through the MMI. You are right, it does tighten the steering and make the engine more responsive.

I did not activate the dampers, as for me there is no point as I only have the S line suspension.

I am debating about completing this mod and adding the switches, but its cool to be able to switch through the MMI.

Fully agree with you, its a worthwhile mod!

[a4audio]

I would recommend installing the switch. Control module was throwing up error messages without it on mine. You may not get this with the MMI version though?

[Dieseldoos]

I get the error show on on VCDS but I ignore it as I know its only because I have not actually fitted the switch. I think I only need the switch itself for mine, as mine has sat nav, so where the switch would be I just have a blanking panel. Will look into it a bit more I think!

[shanekk]

Any 1 know part no for console surround I only have the space for ESP?

[a4audio]

If you have a non MMI car like mine, and without the advanced key (no start stop button) then:
console surround piece p/n is: 8k0 864 216 B
the ADS switch p/n is: 8k0 959 673 E ( without 'individual setting')
the plug that goes into the bottom of the switch is: ICO 973 119 B
and the repair wires / pins for the plug are: 000 979 009 (tel:000 979 009)

I put a link to a how to guide in the first post.

Good luck

[chiefinspector]

Is this something that can be done at the Audi garage? I just got my new car last week and although it has loads of features through the MMI, the ADS is not one of them.

[a4audio]

My local garage would not install this, as its a factory fit option. As the wires are not there in the existing wiring harness, they would need to replace these, ie stripping the interior out. Actually all you need to do is add 3 wires, following the existing cable runs if you do a neat job, and keeping it as close to oem as possible. You will need VCDS to enable as well.

Switch p/n is different for MMI cars as it goes in the dash rather than the centre console. See: AudiEnthusiasts Vag Com (http://www.audienthusiasts.com/Project_ADS.html)

[shanekk]

Do you know we're I could get that 8k0864216 b with out going to audi? I looked eBay can't see any

i think audi would cost a lot for this part

[a4audio]

No, Audi specific part, so unless you can find a right off which is being broken for parts, the dealer is your best option. Even with all the parts from a deal, it's half the price of it factory fitted from new.

[Dieseldoos]

Chief Inspector, If you don't want to go adding wires etc, you can do as I have done and just have the ads activated via VCDS and use it via MMI. It does show an error message if you do a scan but you can ignore it. I might add the switch later but in the mean time mine is all through the MMI.

[shanekk]

No, Audi specific part, so unless you can find a right off which is being broken for parts, the dealer is your best option. Even with all the parts from a deal, it's half the price of it factory fitted from new.
Ok thanks one thing do you think it's worth doing when I have no servotronic ? i would have no effect in the steering or would I?

i know you said you can make it hard but I'd really like to make it lighter as my power steering is quite hard anyway

[shanekk]

Chief Inspector, If you don't want to go adding wires etc, you can do as I have done and just have the ads activated via VCDS and use it via MMI. It does show an error message if you do a scan but you can ignore it. I might add the switch later but in the mean time mine is all through the MMI.

whats the advantage off adding the switch? If you have it all ready? Would this way be better?

[chiefinspector]

Chief Inspector, If you don't want to go adding wires etc, you can do as I have done and just have the ads activated via VCDS and use it via MMI. It does show an error message if you do a scan but you can ignore it. I might add the switch later but in the mean time mine is all through the MMI.

Thanks Diesel. This is something i might look to do in the future once i have had the car for a bit longer.

[a4audio]

In dynamic mode the steering is more responsive and has less 'play' in the wheel. It's not any heavier to turn I don't think, infant maybe lighter at lower speeds for a sharper response.

[Dieseldoos]

"whats the advantage off adding the switch? If you have it all ready? Would this way be better?"

The only advantage for me adding the switch is it would stop the error message showing up when I do a scan. That said, it does not bother me to much as I know its only throwing the error up as the actual switch is not there.

[Ben k]

I have a switch for an mmi car I purchased by mistake as I have a concert radio

[shanekk]

can some one help? what am i doing wrong? I cab get as far as "Complete the above steps channels 63 64 65 66" in the guide but from here im lost!! I cant get the hidding menu up as i am holding down car and set up but noting is happen any ideas?

[Gunnark100]

[QUOTE=shanekk;807831]can some one help? what am i doing wrong? I cab get as far as "Complete the above steps channels 63 64 65 66" in the guide but from here im lost!! I cant get the hidding menu up as i am holding down car and set up but noting is happen any ideas?[/QUOTE

Looks like you have to enable hidden menu function with cable first!

[shanekk]

Any idea how?

I have try to go to 07-control head also try to go to 5F information - but I cant remember now but something like not found it says, so can my mmi not have the drive select on the screen? as i cant have a hidden menu any help please

[Gunnark100]

Any idea how?

I have try to go to 07-control head also try to go to 5F information - but I cant remember now but something like not found it says, so can my mmi not have the drive select on the screen? as i cant have a hidden menu any help please

the hidden menu in MMI 2G can be enabled with:
[07 - Control Head]
[Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 8
change 0 to 1


Enable Hidden menu in MMI
[5F - Information Electr.]
[Adaptation - 10] -> Channel 6
change 0 to 1

If none of those working for you, its strange, i cant remember was the access in 2G different from 3G or not, 3G is 100% car+setup for 6 seconds! What system you have in your car(radio)?

[shanekk]

I dont know what mmi I have I have no nav so maybe mmi2

I have tryed both 5F and 07 and the two off them keep coming up not found dont know why tho do i not have these?

[Gunnark100]

I dont know what mmi I have I have no nav so maybe mmi2

I have tryed both 5F and 07 and the two off them keep coming up not found dont know why tho do i not have these?

If you have concert or sympfony radio its not proper mmi, i belive ads is not for that system!

[shanekk]

Yes My one says concert so I cant have the ads on the screen then that must be it

[shanekk]

So is putting in the button the only way off getting the ads? would you say?

[shanekk]

All in all it cot me £110 in parts from the Audi garage: switch, console surround, and some repair wires, and a 5 amp fuse. Took me about 2hrs start to finish, including the VCDS changes.

Credit for this must got to this site for the parts list and how to guide, although the fuse box for correct installation was slightly different, and I was fitting this on a non MMI car.


AudiEnthusiasts Vag Com (http://www.audienthusiasts.com/Project_ADS.html)

all in all a worthwhile mod.

Hi the part number you give me for the console surround audi said its not showing up is the number right? also that link to do the install is for a mmi car not a non mmi like you done is there much off a difference in the 2 fittings?

[size12]

I just tried to enable this on my car with mmi I have managed to bring ADS up on the mmi display under car options menu but it's greyed out?? Has anyone else had this?

[Dieseldoos]

I just tried to enable this on my car with mmi I have managed to bring ADS up on the mmi display under car options menu but it's greyed out?? Has anyone else had this?

Have you definately followed the guide word for word? It sounds like its only activated in hidden menu so that it shows up on MMI but not actually programmed fully via VCDS.

[size12]

Yeah it seems man reading instructions is not the way forward :-$
Ok set the long code ok I think but having trouble getting security access as I am using avdi not vcds it's taking some Woking out lol
Cheers.
Jon

[Celica-Boy]

I've been doing so research into installing and enabling the ADS system on my car for some time and finally did it last weekend. I had read mixed reviews as to whether or not this was worth it, on a car without the active dampers or active steering, but I can report that it does make a big difference to the standard power steering and engine throttle response. In comfort mode, the throttle seems very smooth and progressive, and the power steering light and easy to move the wheel, Auto mode is back to the factory standard, and Dynamic sharpens up everything. The best way I can describe the throttle response is like chipping the engine, you get a strong surge of power without having to depress the pedal as much and the power steering is firm and a lot more responsive and sharp.

All in all it cot me £110 in parts from the Audi garage: switch, console surround, and some repair wires, and a 5 amp fuse. Took me about 2hrs start to finish, including the VCDS changes.

Credit for this must got to this site for the parts list and how to guide, although the fuse box for correct installation was slightly different, and I was fitting this on a non MMI car.


AudiEnthusiasts Vag Com (http://www.audienthusiasts.com/Project_ADS.html)

all in all a worthwhile mod.


Im thinking of doing this soon. But when you stated about the fuse box installation being slightly different, can you explain why and how you went about it, please.

The reason I ask, is because I've just had a look on our 2009 A4 passenger fuse box (brown) and can't see where the other positive fuse blade socket is on number 2, so where would it be able to get a positive current from once you've installed the positive wire from the switch and a fuse into the fuse box?

[a4audio]

There is a main red power cable that feeds the majority of the supply side of the line of fuses. Unfortunately the live metal plate didn't extend down to the fuse 2 empty slot so I used the other end of the repair wire, and about 2 inches of the cable. Carefully stripped back some of the insulation on the big red power wire, and soldered the end of the repair wire to this, then taped everything up with insulating tape. I spent ages trying to solder the repair wire on to the actual metal part, but failed, so ended up tapping into the cable about 1 inch up from where it connects to the metal part. I should have take photo's at the time in hind sight. This is where the stock feed would have come from. just goes to show that it you ordered ADS originally Audi would have used a different wiring loom. I dread to think how many variations they have.

[Celica-Boy]

That's brilliant mate, just what I needed to know, Thanks. Just a few more questions if you don't mind. :Blush2: The power repair wire you have to order from Audi, does that come with 2 fuse slot ends? and can you use both ends in the same fuse box slot (No.2)? Also, how long are the wires we have to order, are they long enough for the whole installation?

[a4audio]

The repair wires are about 30cm long, each end having a receptacle, so if you cut the fire in half, you have the two you need :-)

[blackABT]

Is there anyone living in my area with VCDS that can help me do the ADS retrofit (not for free of course)? I`ve got everything I need for the job :)

[Guest 2]

Have a look in my signature for the VCDS map.

If you find someone let me know and I will PM them on your behalf and bring their attention to this thread.

You won't be able until you have 10 USEFUL posts so please don't spam the forum specifically for PM ;)

Welcome to VWAF ;)

[hsmithboy30]

Hi mate
I have ordered the kufatec retrofit wiring loom for ADS and have sourced a used switch from ebay Germany, I just need the gear surround trim now. How much was it from audi?
Thanks
stu

[Guest 2]

Hopefully a4audio will see your reply and confirm prices from his post earlier in the thread

Welcome to VWAF ;)


All in all it cot me £110 in parts from the Audi garage: switch, console surround, and some repair wires, and a 5 amp fuse. Took me about 2hrs start to finish, including the VCDS changes.

[hsmithboy30]

Thanks, I bought the items mentioned for about £40 so I'm hoping the surround isn't too expensive. A4audio spent £110 all new so hopefully I can retrofit it all for a very good price :)

[blackABT]

Hi mate, I`ve ordered all parts from an AUDI retailer from Germany. That piece (code: 8K0864261BV10) was €41.17 so approx. £35. I hope this helps! Cheers!

[hsmithboy30]

£35ish, that's great I can live with that :) thanks for posting can't wait to get all the parts and install it

[a4audio]

Hi, finally found the receipt for the parts I ordered. (See photo) also bought a couple of packets of fine wire from Maplins which wasn't much. 24/0.2 wire. 10metres. Came in packets. Yellow code is BA42

[hsmithboy30]

Thanks mate much appreciated

[s7gpt]

I can understand this option improving throttle response but not how it effects normal power steering, can some one explain ?

[hsmithboy30]

This is the theory anyway, i will let you know how the reality is when all the parts arrive :)

Audi Drive Select makes the steering ratio more direct at low speeds, with a higher level of power assistance. This renders the steering extremely light when manoeuvring, and only two turns of the wheel are needed from lock to lock. As the car's speed increases, however, the steering ratio becomes gradually less direct and in parallel with this the amount of power assistance is reduced. At high motorway speeds the A4 can therefore be driven smoothly and has excellent straight-line stability.

[sportq]

Is it possible to set the Drive Select parameters with the full VCDS without the hardware switch in the console? I'd like to have the sharper throttle response permanently and possibly the lighter low speed steering assistance. I'd happily use the laptop to set it once and leave it like that.

Peter

[Dieseldoos]

Is it possible to set the Drive Select parameters with the full VCDS without the hardware switch in the console? I'd like to have the sharper throttle response permanently and possibly the lighter low speed steering assistance. I'd happily use the laptop to set it once and leave it like that.

Peter

You can do as I did and enable it using VCDS and control it through MMI. Then you can adjust it or leave it on the settings you prefer.

I have not fitted the actual switch. Only downside is if you do a scan it will show an error as its activated but the switch is not there, and I can live with that!

[sportq]

You can do as I did and enable it using VCDS and control it through MMI. Then you can adjust it or leave it on the settings you prefer.

I have not fitted the actual switch. Only downside is if you do a scan it will show an error as its activated but the switch is not there, and I can live with that!

I don't have MMI, not the full sat-nav version anyway, just the Concert radio with the colour screen. I take it that won't work?

Peter

[blackABT]

As far as I know ADS can be (retro)fitted on every A4 B8 model, no matter what system you have: Concert, Symphony, MMI 2G, MMI 3G so on.

[s7gpt]

I believe you need dynamic steering to notice any effect after making these changes Audi Dynamic Steering A4 S4 A5 S5 Q5 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge7huVZANC4) and without there will be no difference with ads on either setting in your steering ?

[Dieseldoos]

I don't have MMI, not the full sat-nav version anyway, just the Concert radio with the colour screen. I take it that won't work?

Peter

In the A5 forums I did read that someone enabled it on an A5 without MMI and it still works, its just if you want to change the settings you need to re-connect VCDS and change it, (unless you retro fit the switch) but if you want to change it and leave it on another setting then it will not matter.

To do that just follow the instructions for enabling it using VCDS but not the part about hidden menus etc.

And I can confirm the steering does get either stiffer or softer depending on setting. Its only adaptive suspension that will not work (unless you have the suspension), so I did not enable that bit.

[s7gpt]

In the A5 forums I did read that someone enabled it on an A5 without MMI and it still works, its just if you want to change the settings you need to re-connect VCDS and change it, (unless you retro fit the switch) but if you want to change it and leave it on another setting then it will not matter.

To do that just follow the instructions for enabling it using VCDS but not the part about hidden menus etc.

And I can confirm the steering does get either stiffer or softer depending on setting. Its only adaptive suspension that will not work (unless you have the suspension), so I did not enable that bit.
ok gonner do the mod now and see how it feels, whats the settings in hidden menu for cars with 2g ?

[Dieseldoos]

Just remember what you change incase you need to put it back! I cant help with 2g, as mine is 3G, but all I did with the hidden menu is activate the settings and then enable it to show in the CAR menu to be controlled via MMI.

[hsmithboy30]

Hii how did you find the ADS mod? I'm retro fitting it for 2g tomorrow any tips?

[s7gpt]

Hii how did you find the ADS mod? I'm retro fitting it for 2g tomorrow any tips?

Not got round to it yet mate, need to look for 2g settings in hidden menu

[Guest 2]

I will be under Charisma in the cars menu maske (yes maske) menu.

[hsmithboy30]

Do you have instructions with how to access it?
thanks

[Guest 2]

I'll go out to the car now ;)

[Guest 2]

ADS doesn't support my A6 but as I have MMI 2G the option is still there.

Video uploading to YouTube now.

[Guest 2]

okay so just done a quick video to show people with MMI 2G how to enable it.

ADS will be shown in your CAR menu. It won't show it on my A6 as my chassis doesn't support it but this is the procedure anyway ;)

You do need to enable the hidden menu via vcds for this to work -

[Select]
[07 - Control Head]
[Adaption - 10]
Drop-down Menu
[Select - Service Menu]
Change 'New Value'to 1
[Test]
[Save]

Drop-down Menu
[Select - MMI System Retstart]
Change 'New Value' to 1
[Test]
[Save]
*MMI will now restart*
[Done, Go Back]


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fgglMrG33Q

[hsmithboy30]

Awesome thanks I will retrofit ADS tomorrow afternoon. I will update how I get on

[hsmithboy30]

Well fitted ADS and cruise control today, took about 3 house all in. ADS is a worthwhile mod comfort is nice and smooth with lighter steering and dynamic has a crisp steering and snappy throttle response overall very happy with my mods. Will fit the new RS4 pedals tonight

[mrbubba]

Thread resurrection, but this came up in my search. I have a 2010 S4, can I activate this in the MMI and will it work?

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

[Jackq]

I have to refresh :D


I retrofitted ADS in my A3 8V (intstalled & connected button, enabled ADS in CAR menu) last thing to do is coding. Everything was done by me myself (soldering, installing, coding in VCDS).
I don't have activation document. So i have found dude who disable CP and do other works, i think he have chinese odis or something else because he have low prices for services.


My question is, does any dude with odis or something similiar can enable - code an ADS in my car even if i don't have activation document?
How it can be done? I also installed airbag off switch and can't coding it with VCDS too. It should be enabled with an odis too?


Hope someone will answer, Regards, Jack