Hello fellow car enthusiasts,
I recently tackled a project on my wife’s Audi Q7 to address a common need for more storage space – removing the 3rd row seats. Living in the USA, all Audi Q7 models come standard with a 3rd row, which, while occasionally useful, often compromises valuable cargo space. I sourced the necessary parts internationally to perform a conversion, effectively deleting the 3rd row seating.
The process was surprisingly straightforward and took approximately 3 hours of my time at a leisurely pace. While I consider myself a capable DIYer, I certainly don’t rush through these kinds of tasks.
Now, having completed the physical removal, I’m facing a minor hurdle: the dashboard is displaying a warning light indicating that the 3rd row is disconnected. Additionally, the electronic buttons used to control the 3rd row are blinking red, signaling an error.
My immediate goal is to eliminate these error warnings from the instrument cluster and MMI display. I understand that error codes might still be present within the system modules, and I’m okay with that as long as they are not visible and causing distractions.
Coming from a BMW background, where I have extensive experience with retrofitting and coding, my usual approach would be to disconnect the 3rd row module, then use coding to remove the 3rd row option from the Vehicle Order. This would typically involve adjusting settings in other relevant modules and then updating the Vehicle Order across the primary control units, followed by a default coding of remaining modules to learn the new vehicle configuration.
However, I’m still learning the intricacies of the Audi coding system and would greatly appreciate some guidance on the correct procedure for this platform. Below, you’ll find my Auto Scan data for reference. Any assistance in resolving these error warnings would be fantastic!
Step-by-Step Audi Q7 3rd Row Delete: Gaining Sub Cargo Floor Storage
As mentioned, the physical removal of the Audi Q7 3rd Row seats is a relatively simple process. For anyone looking to increase their Q7’s cargo capacity, particularly the often-lacking sub-cargo floor storage, this modification is well worth considering. It mainly involves unbolting the existing 3rd row components and replacing them with parts designed for a two-row configuration, commonly found in European models.
The entire physical conversion took me around 3 hours, working at a relaxed pace. A more experienced mechanic or someone working quickly could likely complete it in less time. The mechanical aspect is truly the easier part of this project.
Addressing the 3rd Row Delete Error Codes and Warnings
The real challenge, and the focus of my current request for assistance, lies in the software side – specifically, coding out the error messages triggered by the removal of the 3rd row. After disconnecting the 3rd row seats and their associated module, the Audi Q7’s system understandably detects a fault. This manifests as a persistent warning light on the dashboard and blinking red lights on the 3rd-row seat control buttons.
Coding Options for 3rd Row Seat Deletion
I’ve initiated some preliminary exploration using VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) to identify potential coding and adaptation options within the 3rd Row seat module. Within the adaptations menu, I noticed options related to “transport mode” and “service mode.” It’s possible that one of these settings, or a combination thereof, might offer a solution to suppress the error warnings.
My experience with BMW coding suggests a process of removing the option code for the 3rd row from the Vehicle Order and then propagating this change across the car’s systems. I’m seeking insights into the analogous procedure within the Audi ecosystem. What is the correct way to inform the Audi Q7 that the 3rd row is no longer present, thus eliminating the error messages?
Seeking Community Expertise for Audi Coding
If anyone in the community has experience with coding out features in Audi vehicles, particularly related to seating configurations or module removal, your expertise would be invaluable. Specifically, I’m looking for guidance on:
- The correct modules to access via VCDS for 3rd row seat configuration.
- Specific adaptation or coding changes needed to eliminate the error warnings.
- Any potential pitfalls or considerations during this coding process.
Any advice or step-by-step instructions you can provide would be greatly appreciated as I work to finalize this Audi Q7 3rd row removal project and regain full, error-free functionality. Thank you in advance for your support!
