Glen9010

We are learning about all of the variables available on our Audi's. We have an S5 and an SQ5, both 2017. Two things we would like to know how to control, one is the engine soundaktor? and the other is the exhaust valves. Is there an easy what to turn the soundaktor off? As for the exhaust valves, we have the car system set to dynamic for the valves, but, can they be turned on (open) and left on? I have seen the aftermarket units that interface with the valves and use a remote to manually open and close them. Just wondering if they can be controlled through software. For a beginner, what VAG-COM unit would be best to learn systems on? Obviously, they will be under warranty for a long while, will altering any software settings void warranty?

Thanks for the help!

plat27265

Welcome to the forum!

Is there a way to turn the Soundaktor off?
Yes, just pull the fuse out. Your vehicle's owners manual should be able tell you which fuse. But, if you want it subdued, just set the 'Engine Sounds' in Audi Drive Select to Comfort. FYI, I do not think the SQ5 has a soundaktor. There is a valve at the exhaust pipe that modulates the exhaust sounds. Maybe SQ5 owners can chime in and let you know if the SQ5 has a soundaktor or not. The S5 definitely has the soundaktor and it does not have the variable valve at the exhaust pipe.

Which VCDS cable do you need? The HEX-CAN USB cable (Ross-Tech: HEX-USB+CAN Interface) will work on your 2017 S5 and SQ5. It can do unlimited VINs that's why it is eas to resell it. It is no longer available from Ross-Tech but you can watch out for used cables in the classified sections of this forum or other Audi/VW forums. They're priced around $230 to $295 each. Or, if you decide to get the newer cable, the HEX-V2 will work well for your vehicles (https://store.ross-tech.com/shop/vchv2_ent/) but they can only do limited VIN's, 3 or 10.

Altering the software settings using VCDS will not void your warranty as long as you don't fool around with stuff that can affect engine and transmission performance. But, when the dealer updates the firmware in the ECU, some settings you did on VCDS will be lost. You'll have to re-do them all over again.

Glen9010

Thanks for the info. I gotta get under them and have a look for the valves. As for the soundaktors, more investigating......

WuMu-tien

Glen,

While reviewing the VCDS site, I suggest you look at this page in particular: http://wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/index.php/Official_Factory_Repair_Information

VWAG documentation is available on the various erWin sites world-wide. Site content depends on the model(s) of vehicle it supports and the market: RoW, NAR, etc.

A one day subscription to erWin US costs about $35.00. Once you have access, you can download as much as you have time for in the way of Repair Manuals, Wiring Diagrams, Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) / Technical Product Information (TPI), Vehicle Identification (by VIN) and much more.If you intend to do your own work, then erWin is your source for authorized Audi repair/install guidance.