Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Coding Engine Control Module (A4, A6 & S4)
Connect VAS 5051 or equivalent scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC). DLC is located behind cover under left side of steering column. Turn ignition on. On scan tool, select vehicle system 01 - ENGINE ELECTRONICS. From selection 1, select diagnostic function 07 - CODE CONTROL MODULE. Press "Q" button to confirm input. Following scan tool instructions, access ECM coding information. Enter ECM code as necessary. For ECM coding options, see ENGINE CONTROL MODULE CODING OPTIONS (A4) or ENGINE CONTROL MODULE CODING OPTIONS (A6) table.
As an example, a properly coded ECM for an A4 model with Front Wheel Drive (FWD) with traction control (ASR/ESP) and 5-speed automatic transmission would read 16501 on the VAS 0551 scan tool.
| Application/Code | Option | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country/Emissions | ||||
| 16 | (1) USA ULEV | |||
| Drive/Additional Functions | ||||
| 0 | Front Wheel Drive With Anti-Lock Brake System | |||
| 2 | All Wheel Drive With Anti-Lock Brake System | |||
| 5 | Front Wheel Drive With Traction Control (ASR/ESP) | |||
| 3 | All Wheel Drive With Traction Control (ESP) | |||
| Transmission | ||||
| 0 | 5-Speed Manual Transmission | |||
| 5 | Automatic Transmission 01V | |||
| Vehicle Type | ||||
| 1 | A4 | |||
|
||||
| Application/Code | Option | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country/Emissions | ||||
| 07 | (1) USA LEV | |||
| Drive/Additional Functions | ||||
| 2 | All Wheel Drive Without Electronic Stability Program | |||
| 5 | Front Wheel Drive With Anti-Slip Regulation | |||
| 7 | All Wheel Drive With Electronic Stability Program | |||
| Transmission | ||||
| 0 | 5-Speed Manual Transmission | |||
| 5 | Automatic Transmission 01V | |||
| Vehicle Type | ||||
| 2 | A6 | |||
|
||||
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.