Understanding and Checking the Launch Control Number on Audi, Volkswagen, Seat and Skoda Cars
Contents:
1 – Introduction to Launch Control
2 – How Launch Control works on Audi and Volkswagen
3 – The Launch Control Program: Conditions and Use
4 – The Impact of Launch Control on Vehicle Durability
5 – Why Check the Number of Launch Controls before a Purchase?
6 – Tutorial: How to Check the Number of Launch Controls with VCDS
7 – Conclusion
-> VCDS: Check mileage
-> VCDS: Reset / Reset DSG
1 – Introduction to Launch Control
Launch Control is an innovative feature found on Audi and Volkswagen vehicles, enabling lightning-fast starts by optimizing acceleration right from the start. It’s the perfect tool for drivers with a passion for performance.
2 – Launch Control operation on Audi and Volkswagen
On vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions such as DSG, Launch Control automatically manages traction and acceleration for powerful, controlled starts from standstill. It adjusts engine speed and optimizes the transmission to maximize performance from the very first touch of the gas pedal.
3 – The Launch Control program: Terms and conditions of use
The Launch Control program provides maximum acceleration under specific conditions:
- The motor must be at operating temperature.
- Wheels and steering wheel must be in straight-ahead position.
- The start/stop system must be deactivated.
- The start-up assistant must be deactivated.
- The motor must be running, and the ESC-OFF key must be pressed briefly once.
- Select DSG or Tiptronic “S” gear, or Sport driving mode (VW / Seat / Skoda) or Dynamic mode must be selected via Audi Drive Select.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly for one second.
- Press and hold the gas pedal all the way down.
- Take your foot off the brake for an immediate start.
After using the Launch Control program, the gearbox temperature may rise significantly, making the program unavailable for several minutes. Once the gearbox has cooled down, the function becomes available again. It’s important to note that frequent use of Launch Control places a heavy load on drivetrain parts, resulting in excessive wear.
4 – The Impact of Launch Control on Vehicle Durability
Intensive use of Launch Control, although effective, can accelerate wear and tear on vehicle components such as the gearbox and tires. This can also affect the car’s overall lifespan, making it essential to check the number of times this function has been used, especially when buying a used vehicle.
5 – Why check the number of Launch Controls before buying?
Knowing the number of times Launch Control has been activated can give you an indication of how the vehicle has been used. Intensive use may reveal that the car has been driven aggressively, which could influence your purchasing decision. It is therefore advisable to check this data before concluding a sale.
6 – Tutorial: How to control the number of Launch Controls with VCDS
For vehicles on the MQB platform, such as the Golf 7,Audi A3 8V or Seat Leon 5F, you can easily check the number of Launch Controls performed using VCDS. Here’s how:
- Open VCDS and connect it to the vehicle’s OBD-II interface.
- Access module 02 – Auto Box in the main menu.
- Select the ” My advanced values “to access live data.
- Look for the “Launch Control number” block.
- Compare the number found with the vehicle’s mileage and age to assess potential wear.
Information: Some “DQ” auto boxes don’t display the launch control number, so the measurement can’t be searched.
7 – Conclusion
Launch Control is an impressive feature for speed enthusiasts, but its use must be controlled to avoid premature wear and tear on the vehicle. Before buying an Audi, Volkswagen or any other vehicle equipped with this technology, be sure to check how often Launch Control has been used. And don’t neglect to check the vehicle’s history and mileage for a complete and reliable assessment of the car you’re considering.
