Coming Home function on Škoda: everything the owner needs to know

Function Coming Home on cars Škoda is not just a convenient option, but a real assistant in everyday use. It automatically turns on the external lighting when approaching the car or after turning off the ignition, ensuring safety and comfort in the dark. But how exactly does this system work, on which models? Škoda Is it available, and how can I configure it correctly? In this article we will look at all the nuances - from technical features to practical tips for use.

Many owners Octavia, Superb or Kodiaq They don’t even suspect that their car is equipped with this function, or they don’t know how to activate it. Meanwhile, Coming Home can be a real salvation in unlit parking lots or in the courtyards of apartment buildings. Next, you will learn how the implementation of this option differs across different generations. Škoda, which lamps are used, and why sometimes the function refuses to work.

What is Coming Home and why is it needed?

Coming Home (translated as “returning home”) is a lighting function that automatically turns on the vehicle’s headlights or side lights after the ignition is turned off. Its main task is to illuminate the driver’s path from the car to the house or to the entrance to the building. Depending on model Škoda and year of manufacture, the implementation may differ: in some places only the dimensions light up, and in others - full low-beam headlights.

The advantages of the function are obvious:

• 🔦 Security: A lit path reduces the risk of tripping or missing obstacles in the dark.
• 🚗 Convenience: No need to manually turn on the headlights or use a flashlight.
• 🔋 Savings: The light turns off automatically after a set time, preventing the battery from draining.
• 🛡️ Protection: Lighting can scare away intruders in the parking lot.

On some models Škoda (for example, Kodiaq or Enyaq) function Coming Home integrated with the system Keyless Entry. This means that the light turns on not only when the ignition is turned off, but also when the driver approaches the car with the key in his pocket. This implementation is especially convenient for owners of electric cars, where there is no traditional “turn of the key”.

Interesting fact: on older models Škoda (for example, Fabia first generation) function Coming Home often absent even in top trim levels. Today it has become a standard option for most cars of the brand, starting with Rapid 2012 and newer.

Which Škoda models have the Coming Home function?

Function Coming Home available on most modern models Škoda, but its availability depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. Below is a table with information on the main models:

Model	Start year of support	Options	Implementation Features
Octavia (A5, A7, A8)	2008 (A5 FL)	Ambition, Style, RS	On A5 requires separate activation via VCDS. On A7/A8 - a standard option.
Superb (B6, B7, B8)	2008 (B6 FL)	Elegance, Laurin & Klement	On B8 it is integrated with Matrix LED (optional).
Kodiaq	2016	Everything except Active	Works with Keyless Entry and adaptive headlights.
Karoq	2017	Style, Sportline	Glow time can be adjusted through the menu MMI.
Enyaq/Enyaq Coupé	2020	All	Activated when approaching the car with a key (keyless entry).

If your model Škoda released before 2010, most likely a function Coming Home not included as standard. However, it can be activated programmatically through a diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS or OBDeleven), if the car is equipped with appropriate electrical equipment. On models after 2015, the function is usually available out of the box and is controlled through the on-board computer menu.

It is important to consider that on budget versions (for example, Fabia Active or Rapid Base) option may not be available even in new generations. In this case, all that remains is to either complete the car or use alternative solutions (for example, connecting an additional relay to the dimensions).

How Coming Home works: technical details

How the function works Coming Home is based on the interaction of several vehicle systems:

1. Lighting control unit (BCM or CECM) — is responsible for turning the headlights on/off.
2. Door sensor — records the opening of the driver's door after the ignition is turned off.
3. Immobilizer/Key - on models with Keyless Entry Operation occurs when the key approaches.
4. Timer — sets the duration of the glow (usually from 10 to 60 seconds).

The work algorithm looks like this:

1. The driver turns off the ignition and opens the door (or approaches the car with the key).
2. Block BCM receives the signal and turns on the external lighting.
3. After a preset time (for example, 30 seconds), the light automatically turns off.

By car Škoda with LED optics (for example, Superb B8 or Enyaq) function Coming Home can use not only dimensions, but also daytime running lights (DRL) or even Matrix LED in "welcome" mode. This depends on the firmware of the control unit and the settings in the menu.

An important nuance: on models with xenon headlights (for example, Octavia A7 with option Bi-Xenon) The Coming Home function may not work if the lamps are burned out or the ignition unit is faulty. In this case, the system automatically switches to dimensions.

Why doesn't Coming Home work with xenon?

On vehicles with xenon headlights, turning on the lights requires a high voltage (about 20,000 V), which is only supplied when the engine is running. If the ignition is turned off, the ignition unit may not work and the function will fail. The solution is to replace xenon with LED or diagnose the ignition unit.

How to enable and configure Coming Home on Škoda

The process of activating and setting the function depends on the model and generation of the car. Let's look at the main methods:

1. Through the on-board computer menu (for models after 2015)

On most modern Škoda (for example, Octavia A8, Karoq, Kodiaq) setting is done via MMI:

1. Start the car or turn on the ignition.
2. Go to menu Settings → Lighting → Coming Home.
3. Select the glow time (usually available options: 10, 30, 60 seconds or Off).
4. Save your settings.

On some models (for example, Superb B8) the path may differ: Car → Light Assist → Coming Home. If the item is not in the menu, it means that the function is either missing or requires activation through diagnostics.

2. Via diagnostic scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven)

For older models (Octavia A5, Fabia MK2) or budget packages you will need:

1. Connect a scanner (for example, VCDS) to the diagnostic connector.
2. Select block 09 – Cent. Elect. (central electronics).
3. Go to Adaptation → Channel 6 (or another channel, depending on the model).
4. Set value Coming Home on Active and set the glow time.

Example command for OBDeleven:

[09] → [Adaptation] → "Coming Home" → Value: 30 (time in seconds)

3. On models with Keyless Entry (Enyaq, Kodiaq, Superb)

On vehicles with keyless entry, the function is activated automatically when you approach the car with the key. Settings can be changed via:

• Menu Infotainment → Vehicle → Lighting.
• Mobile application Škoda Connect (for Enyaq).

If after setting the function does not work, check:

• 🔋 Battery condition (voltage must be at least 12.3 V).
• 💡 Serviceability of lamps (burnt-out dimensions or headlights block operation).
• 🔧 Settings in VCDS (sometimes you need to activate Leaving Home along with Coming Home).

Common problems and their solutions

Even on new cars Škoda function Coming Home may not work properly. Let's look at typical faults and how to fix them:

1. Coming Home won't turn on

Possible reasons:

• ⚡ Disabled option in settings — check the menu MMI or VCDS.
• 🔋 Weak battery - at voltage below 12 V block BCM may block the function.
• 💡 Faulty lamps — if the dimensions or headlights are burned out, the system will not turn on the lighting.
• 🔌 Wiring problems — oxidized contacts in the fuse or relay box.

2. The lights go out too quickly or don't go out at all.

If the glow time does not match the settings:

• 🕒 Reset settings - try returning factory settings via VCDS.
• 🔄 Firmware update - on some Škoda (for example, Octavia A7) bugs are fixed by updating the block BCM.
• 🛠️ Relay replacement - relay J348 (on some models) is responsible for the lighting timer.

3. Coming Home triggers randomly

If the light turns on for no reason:

• 🔑 Immobilizer problems - the key may trigger falsely at close range.
• 🚪 Faulty door sensor - block BCM receives a false opening signal.
• 📶 Interference from other devices - for example, from contactless tags or smartphones with NFC.

To diagnose complex cases, it is recommended to use a scanner VCDS and check for errors in blocks 09 (Cent. Elect.) and 05 (Acc/Immob.). Often the problem lies in incorrect encodings or firmware conflicts.

⚠️ Attention: By car Škoda with the system Matrix LED (for example, Superb B8) function Coming Home may conflict with adaptive light. In this case, a firmware update for the unit is required. J745 (LED Headlamp Control) up to version no lower 0024.

Coming Home vs Leaving Home: What's the difference?

Along with Coming Home, on cars Škoda a common function Leaving Home (“leaving home”) Despite similar names, their tasks differ:

Function	When it works	What lamps does it use?	Settings
Coming Home	After turning off the ignition and opening the door	Dimensions, low beam or DRL	Glow time (10–60 sec)
Leaving Home	When you turn on the ignition or start driving	Low beam or PTF (fog lights)	Activation/deactivation

Leaving Home useful in the dark, when the driver gets into the car in an unlit parking lot. The function automatically turns on the headlights for a few seconds to illuminate the area in front of the car. On some models Škoda (for example, Kodiaq) both options can be configured independently of each other.

It's interesting that on Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé function Leaving Home integrated with the system Light Assist and can even activate Matrix LED in "welcome" mode. This creates the effect of a “carpet of light” in front of the car.

If you want both functions to work synchronously, check the settings in the menu Light Assist. On some firmwares Škoda there is an option Synchronized Lighting, which unites Coming Home and Leaving Home into a single system.

Alternative solutions: if Coming Home is missing

If your model Škoda does not support Coming Home, or the function refuses to work, you can consider alternative options:

1. Installation of an additional relay

For older models (eg Fabia MK1 or Octavia A4) you can assemble a circuit based on:

• 🔌 Timer relay (eg OMRON G2R-1).
• 💡 Connection to side lights or PTF.
• 🔋 Powered by alarm or door sensor.

The circuit is simple: when the door is opened after the ignition is turned off, the relay closes the circuit of the dimensions for a specified time (for example, 30 seconds). The downside is that intervention in the standard wiring is required.

2. Using an alarm system with auto start

Many modern alarms (for example, StarLine or Pandora) have the option Coming Home in its functionality. It works on the same principle: when arming, the sidelights or headlights turn on for 10–60 seconds. Pros:

• 🔐 Does not require intervention in the vehicle's electrical system.
• 📱 Controlled from a key fob or smartphone.
• 🚨 Can be integrated with other functions (for example, engine warm-up).

3. LED backlight with motion sensor

For owners who value illumination not only from the front, but also on the sides of the car, the following are suitable:

• 🔦 LED strips under the thresholds with a door opening sensor.
• 💡 Fog lights with timer (for example, HELLA Micro DE).
• 🔋 Autonomous lights on magnets (attached to the body).

When choosing an alternative solution, consider:

• ⚡ Battery load - Constant backlighting can drain the battery.
• 📏 Legal restrictions - In some countries, the use of flashing or colored lights is prohibited.
• 🔧 Guarantee - Tampering with the wiring may void the dealer's warranty.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Coming Home function on Škoda

Is it possible to increase the Coming Home glow time beyond 60 seconds?

On most models Škoda the maximum time is limited to 60 seconds. However, on some vehicles (for example, Superb B8 with VCDS) can be set to 120 seconds via channel adaptation Coming Home Zeit. Please note that prolonged illumination increases the load on the battery.

Why doesn't Coming Home work after replacing lamps with LEDs?

The problem is that the block BCM recognizes the power consumption of LED lamps as an open circuit. Solutions:

1. Install load resistors (for example, 6 Ohm/50 W) parallel to the lamps.
2. Update unit firmware BCM to the version that supports LED.
3. Disable lamp health monitoring via VCDS (not recommended for security reasons).

Can Coming Home be activated on a Škoda Fabia 2010?

On Fabia MK2 (2010–2014) feature Coming Home is not included as standard, but can be activated via VCDS, if the car is equipped with a block BCM versions 6R0 937 087 or newer. You will need:

1. Connect the scanner and select the block 09 – Cent. Elect.
2. Go to Adaptation → Channel 6.
3. Set value Coming Home on Active.
4. Set the glow time (for example, 30).

If the function does not work after activation, check the presence of the relay J348 in the fuse block.

Does Coming Home affect battery life?

When configured correctly (glow time is no more than 30–60 seconds), the function Coming Home does not have a significant effect on the battery. However, if:

• The glow time is too high (more than 2 minutes),
• The battery is old or weak (capacity is lower 60%),
• The car sits idle for a long time,

then regular use of the function may lead to discharge. It is recommended to check the battery voltage every 2-3 months.

Is it possible to turn off Coming Home if it's disturbing?

Yes, the function can be deactivated:

• Via the menu MMI (path: Settings → Lighting → Coming Home → Off).
• Via VCDS (block 09 → Adaptation → Coming Home → Not Active).

On some models (for example, Enyaq) deactivation is possible only through the mobile application Škoda Connect.