Lowering your Audi A6 C7 can dramatically improve its appearance and handling. While lowering links and modules offer solutions, using VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) allows for a cost-effective adjustment without additional hardware. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for lowering your A6 C7 using VCDS.
Understanding the Risks and Prerequisites
Disclaimer: Modifying your vehicle’s suspension with VCDS carries inherent risks. This guide is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any damage, warranty issues, or malfunctions resulting from these modifications. Proceed at your own risk.
Before you begin:
- Level Ground: Ensure your A6 C7 is parked on a level surface.
- Vehicle Mode: Set your driving mode to “Auto” (not Dynamic, Comfort, etc.).
- Close Doors: Ensure all doors are closed to prevent interruption.
- No Towing/Tire Change Mode: Confirm your car is not in towing or tire changing mode.
Lowering Procedure with VCDS
Step 1: Accessing Level Control Module
Connect your VCDS interface to your vehicle’s OBD-II port and launch the VCDS software. Navigate to:
- Select Control Module: [Select]
- Chassis: [46 – Central Conv.]
- Security Access: [16]
- Enter Access Code: Obtain the security access code from reputable online sources dedicated to VCDS coding for Audi vehicles. Note: We avoid directly sharing this code to prevent misuse. A successful entry will display a confirmation message.
- Go Back: Return to the main menu of module 46 – Central Convenience.
- Adaptation – 10:[Adaptation – 10]
Step 2: Recording Initial Values
Within the Adaptation channel, locate and record the following four values:
- Body height front left wheel house edge
- Body height front right wheel house edge
- Body height rear left wheel house edge
- Body height rear right wheel house edge
These values represent the current suspension height in millimeters (mm).
Step 3: Calculating New Values
Determine your desired drop in millimeters (mm). Audi recommends a maximum drop of 17mm. Exceeding this may impact other systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control.
Add your desired drop to each of the recorded values. For example, if your front left wheel house edge value is 384mm and you desire a 10mm drop, the new value would be 394mm. Rounding is acceptable.
Step 4: Activating and Calibrating Level Control
Return to the main menu within module 46 – Central Conv. and select [Basic Settings – 04]. Perform the following actions:
- Activate Level Control: Select “Activate Level Control” and press [Go!]. Wait for completion.
- Delete Calibration for Level Control: Select “Delete Calibration for Level Control” and press [Go!]. An error message indicating “Air Suspension Malfunction” is normal.
- Start Up to Reference Level: Select “Start Up to Reference Level” and press [Go!]. Your car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing noises. Do not use the “Start Up to Reference Level Production” option. Wait for completion.
Step 5: Entering New Adaptation Values
Navigate back to [Adaptation – 10]. Enter the new calculated values for each wheel house edge, pressing [Do It!] after each entry. A confirmation message will appear after each successful entry.
Step 6: Final Calibration
Return to [Basic Settings – 04] and perform the following:
- Calibrate Level Control: Select “Calibrate Level Control” and press [Go!]. Wait for completion.
- Activate Level Control: Select “Activate Level Control” and press [Go!].
Step 7: Clearing Fault Codes
Navigate to [Fault Codes – 02] and clear any existing fault codes.
Enhancing Suspension Control (Optional)
This optional step allows you to disable automatic lowering at higher speeds and enables manual suspension raising at any speed.
Step 1: Accessing the Green Menu
Access the hidden green menu in your MMI system by simultaneously holding the “Car” and “Menu” buttons.
Step 2: Modifying Suspension Settings
Navigate to:
- Car
- Car Menu Operation
- CarDeviceAdaptation
- Suspension
Step 3: Adjusting Values
Locate the “menu_display_mode” setting. Change the value to “5.”
Step 4: Saving and Rebooting
Press the center MMI knob to save the changes. Reboot the MMI by pressing and holding “Menu,” the center knob, and the top right soft button. Cycle the ignition on and off.
By following these steps, you can successfully lower your Audi A6 C7 using VCDS. Remember to prioritize safety and proceed cautiously. Enjoy the enhanced aesthetics and handling of your lowered vehicle!
