How to Enable Audi Mirror Dip in Reverse with VCDS

The mirror dip function automatically lowers the passenger-side exterior mirror when reverse gear is selected. This makes it easier to see the kerb, parking lines and the area next to the rear wheel.

On compatible Audi vehicles, the function can be enabled through VCDS. Availability depends on the vehicle, door control module and mirror equipment, so the coding option may not be supported by every model.

Before You Start

You will need:

• a compatible VCDS diagnostic interface,
• a Windows laptop with VCDS installed,
• access to the passenger door control module,
• electrically adjustable exterior mirrors.

Before changing the coding, save the original coding value or take screenshots of the current settings. This allows you to restore the original configuration if the function does not work correctly.

Switch the ignition on, but do not start the engine.

How to Enable Mirror Dip in Reverse with VCDS

1. Connect the VCDS interface to the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
2. Switch the ignition on.
3. Open VCDS.
4. Select Select Control Module.
5. Open 52 – Door Elect, Pass.
6. Select Coding – 07.
7. Open Long Coding Helper.
8. Go to Byte 4.
9. Enable Bit 2 and Bit 3.
10. Close Long Coding Helper.
11. Select Do It! to save the coding.
12. Switch the ignition off and then on again.

The wording displayed next to individual bits may vary depending on the installed door controller and the VCDS label file.

Do not enable undocumented bits if your module uses a different coding layout.

Set the Mirror Switch to the Passenger Side

For the mirror dip function to operate, the mirror adjustment switch on the driver’s door must be left in the passenger-mirror position.

Use:

• the right mirror position in a left-hand-drive vehicle,
• the left mirror position in a right-hand-drive vehicle.

The original article reversed this explanation, which could make the correctly coded function appear not to work.

How to Set the Lowered Mirror Position

After completing the coding:

1. Switch the ignition on.
2. Place the mirror selector in the passenger-mirror position.
3. Select reverse gear.
4. Adjust the passenger mirror downward until the kerb or parking line is visible.
5. Move out of reverse.
6. Drive forward or switch the ignition off to check whether the mirror returns to its normal position.

The exact return behaviour may depend on the vehicle and door control module. On some vehicles, the mirror returns after driving forward; on others, it may return after the ignition is switched off or the selector position is changed.

Why Is the Mirror Not Tilting in Reverse?

If the coding has been accepted but the mirror does not move, check the following:

• The mirror selector must be set to the passenger side.
• Reverse gear must be selected while the ignition is on.
• The passenger door module must support the function.
• The installed mirror motor and controller must be compatible.
• The coding layout may differ from the one shown in this guide.
• Some vehicles may require an additional adaptation or coding change.
• The function may be limited if the car does not have compatible mirror-position memory.

Do not assume that every Audi supports mirror dip simply because module 52 is accessible.

Does Mirror Dip Require Memory Seats?

Not in every Audi. Some door control modules can perform an approximate mirror dip without full seat-memory equipment, while other configurations require compatible position-memory hardware.

If the mirror lowers but does not return precisely to its original position, this may be a limitation of the installed mirror motor or door module rather than incorrect coding.

How to Disable Mirror Dip

To restore the original configuration:

1. Open 52 – Door Elect, Pass.
2. Select Coding – 07.
3. Open Long Coding Helper.
4. Go to Byte 4.
5. Clear Bit 2 and Bit 3.
6. Save the coding by selecting Do It!
7. Cycle the ignition.

Alternatively, restore the original coding value saved before making the change.

Frequently Asked Questions