rockblock

I know there is a retrofit option to get access to the trip computer by changing the wiper stalk and doing some VAGCOM coding, however, since the trip computer already exists, I'm interested in the following:

1. Is there any way of accessing the trip computer info via some "hidden menu options"? (With BMWs there is a combination of buttons that you press to get access to that info - does the Audis also have this "hidden" capability?)
   
2. Is there any way of replacing the info displayed on the top of the DIS? I currently have the non-color DIS that displays RADIO/CD info - I would like to see consumption data instead - is there some VAGCOM coding that can be applied to change the type of info that can be displayed?

Thx

a4audi4fun

Not aware of anything for the B5 & B6. For the B7 with colour display (don't know about red display), there is a VCDS changeable parameter that will enable a menu option for the DIS. That menu option allow you to change things like the units (km/miles), modify the screens that can displayed (within limits), disable some of the info that is displayed. Nothing as extensive however, as what you asked about.

Don't know about the B8, though I expect it to be more flexible as the CAN-BUS vehicles seem to allow more options to be reconfigured as desired.

rockblock

Do you know what that parameter is and in which module?
Thx

a4audi4fun

Module 17 Instrument cluster, adaptation channel #19 "Additional Features" - DIS with Menu Guide and Unit Changing is what you want to look for

(Sorry original response was about consumption calculation)

rockblock

Yes, I've seen that feature but isn't that the one you would choose once you have installed the stalk? How else would you get to change the data you want displayed?

Not sure exactly what the other DIS options do - is there a description as to what will change and how it will show?

a4audi4fun

No can do - wiper stalk with buttons is required to make changes.

djkns

I can access all the trip info without the wiper stalk. But you need to do some coding, I have a 2011 A4, so i dont know if this works with other years or models

Enabling trip computer without the trip computer controls in wiper stalk:
56-Radio check byte 9, bit 6, then
17-Instruments check byte 1, bit 2

You should be able to access it like in this video

a4audi4fun

@djkns - agreed many more things can be modified using the MMI on the B8 but they aren't necessarily as user friendly as using the wiper stalk with the correct buttons. I can flip though most of the display options within 5 secs while driving. Wouldn't what to risk that using the MMI - you have to take you eyes off the road to make the changes unless you are really good and remembering the sequences for the MMI options.