Audi RS3 Matrix Headlights Can Now Be Activated Remotely
For a few hundred bucks, you can take advantage of the amazing matrix headlights present on the Audi RS3 – even in the U.S.
For some time now, European customers have been able to take advantage of Audi’s nifty matrix headlights, which go far beyond the typical units that we’e become accustomed to over the years. These headlights are capable of doing all sorts of things, whether that be projecting designs, animations, and perhaps most importantly, shedding a ton of light in front of and off to the sides of a vehicle without blinding oncoming traffic, which is oftentimes the case with modern LED lighting. Unfortunately for those in the U.S. that own something like an Audi RS3, these matrix lights aren’t currently legal due to existing regulations, but members in the AudiWorld forums have found a way around that.
This thread contains a fairly lengthy discussion related to the topic of unlocking Audi RS3 matrix headlight capability, because, as it turns out, the headlights are the same as their European counterparts – the matrix functionality just isn’t enabled. However, as is pretty typical these days, a little software update can resolve that issue and activate the matrix headlights on an Audi RS3 – and even better, it can be done remotely.
“I got the matrix lights activated remotely on my car over the weekend, courtesy of ACM Technik,” said AdamSheikh. “Anthony was great to work with and was very flexible so he could remote in at a time that worked for us both. He is able to do the remote coding regardless if you have a Mac or PC which was super convenient for me as I only had access to my M-series Mac.”
“I haven’t done a ton of night driving since getting it done just yet, but the feature is super cool in action. On a dark enough road, the matrix lights are clearly visible off to the sides and farther ahead, while still isolating out other cars in front of you or in oncoming lanes. I will try to grab a decent video in the coming days. All in all, can’t recommend this feature enough, and wouldn’t hesitate to go through ACM again – especially considering the price vs. other vendors.”
The very same member posted a video of his Audi RS3 matrix headlights in action some time later, and it’s pretty safe to say the results are pretty amazing. The headlights essentially act like high beams, yet don’t shine that intense light on other cars that surround them, all while illuminating the surrounding area like the brightest headlights out there. It’s a shame that we have to pay around $450 to unlock this particular privilege at the moment, but automakers are working to make such a thing legal in the U.S. – and it’s pretty easy to see why.
Photos: Audi, AMC Technik
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