I just had my 2019 R8 V10 Plus (Pre-facelift) serviced in the UK. During the repair, the technicians informed me that they needed to do a firmware/software upgrade on the vehicle. At the time, I didn't think much of it.
Upon arriving home, I immediately saw that the car's sound had significantly deteriorated. It was much quieter than previously, with the pops and bangs occurring seldom and at a reduced volume. Upon conducting online research, I came across a forum discussion from July of the previous year on a recall in the European Union (EU) aimed at addressing noise issues in the pre-facelift R8 models. It seems that this recall is currently being implemented in the United Kingdom as well.
I am quite disappointed. One of the factors that motivated me to purchase an older R8 was its distinctive sound. I comprehend that obtaining an ECU remap/tune might rectify the problem, but I anticipate that this action would nullify my warranty. If I were to pursue this course of action, I would choose to also install a bespoke exhaust system.
Does anybody know whether the upgrade just regulates the actuation of the valves or encompasses other functionalities? Typically, I consistently use the vehicle in Dynamic+Sport mode, and even in this mode, I can audibly perceive the valves opening and closing when I activate the corresponding button when the car is stationary. Consequently, I am uncertain about the specific modifications that have been made. When the vehicle is in Comfort or Auto mode, the valves are now mechanically closed. However, the button indicating the mode does not switch from Standard.
If the issue just pertains to the closure of the valves at a certain RPM, I might maybe get a controller to supersede this function. However, I am uncertain if this action would result in the nullification of the guarantee. Two controllers that I discovered are the CETE and SST. The SST one can be adjusted via a remote control and can be reset to its original settings when I bring it in for servicing. Therefore, I believe this would be acceptable.
Has anybody encountered this update and, if so, what measures did they take to undo it without invalidating the warranty?
Caution - The ECU update 26P7 has resulted in the temporary loss of sound in my vehicle during a service.
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Lucy_Wilson2002
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This is very sad. There is no alternative to accepting that reality. Apologies.
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AudiFan2021
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**** is really unsatisfactory!
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sarah_bentley77
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I regret to hear about it. I am inquiring if this upgrade is mandatory in the United States.
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generic_user2
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Is it not possible for them to reinstall the previous firmware for you?
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STAR89colin
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Audi is definitely capable of doing so. It is uncertain if the dealers have the ability to do so.
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AudiLover2003
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Last June, I took my gen2 to the main dealer for servicing. They advised me that an upgrade was necessary, but I declined their offer. I have completed and submitted a form pertaining to this matter.We are not a member of the European Union. I have scheduled my vehicle to be taken to the dealer in June. However, if there have been any changes to this need, I will choose to take it to an independent mechanic instead. In my opinion, that is a regression.
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Sophie_Williams2001
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I initiated the recall thread that you referred to.
Based on the information provided, it seems that this upgrade for pre-facelift gen2 vehicles is rather inferior to the current software for facelift gen2 cars. On later generation 2 vehicles, the exhaust button retains its usefulness in both auto and comfort modes. However, the issue is that it automatically shuts the valves between 2,000 and 4,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) in either mode.
My automobile has undergone extensive modifications, and I would like to share the details with you:
1. It is indeed feasible to revert to the prior version of the programme. I have reprogrammed my Engine Control Units (ECUs) on several occasions, specifically more than ten times. I own two ECUs in total. Additionally, I have undergone a tuning process that resulted in the production of loud popping and banging sounds from my vehicle's exhaust system. However, I eventually reverted back to the original settings without encountering any issues. However, the situation changes if a dealership is ready to do such task, provided that they possess the original software files.
2. The pops and bangs: the noises are now identical to those of the fl gen2. In order to do this, a distinct electronic control unit (ECU) calibration is necessary. However, it is important to note that undertaking this modification at a location other than the authorised service centre would undoubtedly result in the nullification of the engine warranty. Given your specific situation, your desire is just to have the original item returned to you. Therefore, it is reasonable to allow them to restore it.
3. Valve problem: You may resolve it by using the CETE controller, and doing so will not void your warranty. However, if they discover this, it is quite probable that your guarantee for the exhaust and valves would be invalidated. However, it is important to approach this statement with scepticism, since it may be used as a pretext to deny warranty claims for engine repairs by suggesting that having open valves somehow causes harm to the engine. They also have the ability to reverse this... It is possible for someone to write it, and I believe that valves should have an own controller ECU.
The CETE may be deactivated by double-pressing the ESP button. However, it is necessary to verify whether it still stays the same after restarting the automobile. The vehicle uses its own Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and should remain undetectable by the dealership's software. Nevertheless, the CETE would just eliminate the 2-4k rev valve auto-closing feature in dynamic mode. However, with their bluetooth app version, it is possible that you could also make modifications to the other driving modes.
Based on the information provided, it seems that this upgrade for pre-facelift gen2 vehicles is rather inferior to the current software for facelift gen2 cars. On later generation 2 vehicles, the exhaust button retains its usefulness in both auto and comfort modes. However, the issue is that it automatically shuts the valves between 2,000 and 4,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) in either mode.
My automobile has undergone extensive modifications, and I would like to share the details with you:
1. It is indeed feasible to revert to the prior version of the programme. I have reprogrammed my Engine Control Units (ECUs) on several occasions, specifically more than ten times. I own two ECUs in total. Additionally, I have undergone a tuning process that resulted in the production of loud popping and banging sounds from my vehicle's exhaust system. However, I eventually reverted back to the original settings without encountering any issues. However, the situation changes if a dealership is ready to do such task, provided that they possess the original software files.
2. The pops and bangs: the noises are now identical to those of the fl gen2. In order to do this, a distinct electronic control unit (ECU) calibration is necessary. However, it is important to note that undertaking this modification at a location other than the authorised service centre would undoubtedly result in the nullification of the engine warranty. Given your specific situation, your desire is just to have the original item returned to you. Therefore, it is reasonable to allow them to restore it.
3. Valve problem: You may resolve it by using the CETE controller, and doing so will not void your warranty. However, if they discover this, it is quite probable that your guarantee for the exhaust and valves would be invalidated. However, it is important to approach this statement with scepticism, since it may be used as a pretext to deny warranty claims for engine repairs by suggesting that having open valves somehow causes harm to the engine. They also have the ability to reverse this... It is possible for someone to write it, and I believe that valves should have an own controller ECU.
The CETE may be deactivated by double-pressing the ESP button. However, it is necessary to verify whether it still stays the same after restarting the automobile. The vehicle uses its own Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and should remain undetectable by the dealership's software. Nevertheless, the CETE would just eliminate the 2-4k rev valve auto-closing feature in dynamic mode. However, with their bluetooth app version, it is possible that you could also make modifications to the other driving modes.
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craigstomer
- Senior
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- Joined: Tue Sep 27, 2022 2:20 pm
In the first generation, there is no independent electronic control unit (ECU) specifically dedicated to managing the exhaust valves. Instead, the solenoid responsible for controlling the valves is directly operated by the engine's ECU using a ground switching mechanism. Most aftermarket controllers, including the ones mentioned by the OP, feature a distinct ground wire. This is because the ground on the solenoid harness is only useful if one intends to strictly adhere to the valve operations commanded by the ECU. It would be counterproductive to install an aftermarket controller with the sole purpose of replicating stock functionality. The +v may be used as a power source as it remains active continuously while the engine is running, regardless of the solenoid's condition.
Additionally, in the gen1 model, you have the option to easily detach the vacuum tube from the single source and attach it elsewhere. The valves will remain in an open position indefinitely. I sprinted in this direction for a period of time until I acquired an aftermarket exhaust system that produces excessive noise, making it impractical to keep the valves open constantly. If you want to keep the valves open continuously, it seems to be a more cost-effective alternative, or rather a complimentary modification, compared to purchasing a new controller.
Based on my reading, both of the above statements are applicable to the gen2, and I have not come across any indication to the contrary. Furthermore, to the best of my knowledge, no one has discovered a method to modify the functioning of the exhaust valves without using an aftermarket map. There is no programming (such as VCDS) available to modify this. The melody incorporates it in a challenging manner.
Additionally, in the gen1 model, you have the option to easily detach the vacuum tube from the single source and attach it elsewhere. The valves will remain in an open position indefinitely. I sprinted in this direction for a period of time until I acquired an aftermarket exhaust system that produces excessive noise, making it impractical to keep the valves open constantly. If you want to keep the valves open continuously, it seems to be a more cost-effective alternative, or rather a complimentary modification, compared to purchasing a new controller.
Based on my reading, both of the above statements are applicable to the gen2, and I have not come across any indication to the contrary. Furthermore, to the best of my knowledge, no one has discovered a method to modify the functioning of the exhaust valves without using an aftermarket map. There is no programming (such as VCDS) available to modify this. The melody incorporates it in a challenging manner.