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Mods on my brand-new VW Virtus GT: K&N air filter, LED fog lamps & more

I knew a few friends who got their BMW & Audi cars coded by #DrCode, so I went ahead and got this done.

BHPian vividhavasthi recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Virtus GT Updates - Part 1

  • Delivery Date: 27th September 2017
  • ODO: 274 KM
  • Registration: Not done yet

Mod # 1 - 28th September

Got the car on 27th September 2022. This mod was done on 28th September (is it really a mod? Or just an activation of features that were built-in but not activated for some odd reason?)

The car was coded by the gentlemen at DrcodemyVAG (you can find them on FB or Instagram)

List of coding parameters that can be done on the Virtus are as follows:

  • Coding 80 Kmph Speed Alarm (did this)
  • Coding 120 kmph speed alarm (did this)
  • Coded Lane Change clicks to 5 blinks (useful, got it done)
  • Enabled Volume to Refuel (why not, got it done)
  • Enabled Steering Angle display on Virtual Cockpit (why not, got it done)
  • Improved Torque Vectoring with XDS (not sure how to test this)
  • Improved Steering feel and Throttle Response with Dynamic mode (this is noticeable)
  • Enabled Start Stop Button Pulsation (looks cool, if only it could be colored red)
  • Enabled Driver Side Window Up / down with the Remote Key (useful on a hot day)
  • Enabled Lock/Unlock Confirmation sounds (can be disabled from infotainment)
  • Enabled Anti Theft Alarm (not sure how to test this one)
  • Enabled Rear DRLs (this is useful, got it done)
  • Enabled Rear Side Lights blinking with the Indicators (didn't opt for this one)
  • Enabled AC fan Display in Auto Mode (good to know what speed the fan is working on)
  • Enabled Beats Audio Sound signature for the Infotainment (noticeable bass increase without distortion)
  • Enabled Performance Displays on the Infotainment (cool stuff, should have been activated as stock)
  • Enabled Off Road Displays on Infotainment (shows altitude + oil temp + steering angle)
  • Enabled Video in Motion (haven't tried this yet, don't have any media on a USB)

So the process was simple, you connect with the team via FB or Insta, you pay a deposit (security for the cable and ODB tool) they mail you the cable… keep a windows laptop ready, and setup a time for the job. Follow the instructions…

The team uses TeamViewer to take control of the laptop (I used a really old junker laptop with no personal information on it) and then followed instructions like connecting the cable when prompted into the OBD port, opening the hood + car in start or in Ignition mode. You won't even notice how fast the job is done - less than 10 mins.

I knew a few friends who got their BMWs and Audis coded by #DrCode, so I went ahead and got this done and am really happy with how fast all of this work has been done. Next up will be coding features on the GT TSI 1.2 (which will be sold to a dear friend).

Virtus GT Updates - Part 2

  • Delivery Date: 27th September 2022
  • ODO: 320 KM
  • Registration: Done

Mod # 2 - 29th September

The fog/cornering lamps - Decided to change the bulbs to low-wattage LEDs (so as not to blind people for no reason), I don't often have to deal with fog, and when I do, I usually don't venture out or delay plans by an hour or two.

The procedure is rather simple, even the manual shows what needs to be done, unscrew a few screws from the fender and also the front lip section), unclip the wiring harness, twist the bulb and you are set. Don't close the fender until you have verified the polarity.

Have to be careful to check if the bulbs have been aligned correctly, or else you will see the light scatter a bit too much in areas you don't want.

The throw is much brighter and offers a clearer view of upcoming potholes, the stock bulbs didn't do justice…

Here are the specs:

  • Bulb Type: H8
  • Stock Wattage: 70W (total)
  • LED Wattage: 72W (total)
  • Brand: Night Eye
  • Color: 6500K (Cool White)
  • Cost: About 2K

Virtus GT Updates - Part 3

  • Delivery Date: 27th September 2022
  • ODO: 7XXKM

Mod # 3 - 7th October 2022

A “performance” filter - Yes, I know this won't do much and may even make things dirty, but I wanted to add it anyway.

Options:

  • BMC - FB01027
  • K&N - 33-3111

BMC Filter: Started hunting for the BMC filter, and although I found fellow enthusiasts that could arrange it for 7K + shipping, I thought I’d try my luck to find it in/around Delhi to save some bucks in shipping and maybe even on the MSRP. No such luck, even called a friend in Dubai who was visiting, but he couldn't find one in stock either.

Almost gave up and thought I’d have to wait a lot longer to get this small part, but then Amazon zindabad - first I found the same part but from K&N and voila, ONE piece was available on Amazon with a 10% discount coupon!

Snagged it for 5,800/-

Installing it is as simple as it gets, unscrew the airbox, remove the dirty (well 500km old) filter, replace it with the new, and as usual before doing this, rev the car for no reason but to hear how it sounds without the filter.

Pack it up, tighten the screws and you are done with replacing air filters for the next 1L KM (although I open it and clean it every now and then if I've been driving through a lot of dust)

And this is the end of the planned mods / minor things I could have done on short notice.

Now I look forward to reading what others are doing and what else can be done - and here is one such recommendation for someone who may be brave enough to figure out what it takes...

That absolutely rubbish reverse camera with static guidelines…. This is a painful one and spoils the feel of the vehicle each time I need to slot it in reverse!

Also, exhausts? Any ideas?

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

 
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