Lowering your Audi with VCDS is a popular modification that allows for a more aggressive stance and improved handling. While some believe it’s impossible, this guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to achieving an Audi Vcds Lowering successfully. This method offers a compelling alternative to lowering links or aftermarket lowering modules, utilizing the car’s built-in electronic systems.
Remember: This modification is performed at your own risk. Incorrectly adjusting settings can lead to vehicle malfunctions and potentially void your warranty. Always proceed with caution and consult a professional if you are unsure about any step.
Lowering Your Audi with VCDS: The Process
Before you begin, ensure your Audi is on level ground, in “Auto” mode (not Dynamic or Comfort), and all doors are closed. Any interruption can disrupt the process. Also, confirm your car is not in towing or tire changing mode.
Step 1: Accessing the Level Control Module
Connect your VCDS cable and launch the software. Navigate to “Module 34 – Level Control.”
Step 2: Recording Initial Values
Go to “10 – Adaptation” and note the four values for “Body height front left wheel house edge,” “Body height front right wheel house edge,” “Body height rear left wheel house edge,” and “Body height rear right wheel house edge.” These factory settings are crucial for calculating your desired drop.
Step 3: Calculating Your Desired Drop
Add your desired drop in millimeters (mm) to each of the recorded values. For example, if your front left value is 384.5 and you want a 15mm drop, your new value will be 399.5. Audi recommends a maximum drop of 17mm; exceeding this may negatively impact other systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control. Rounding values is acceptable.
Measuring the distance from the center of the wheel to the fender edge is crucial for accurate adjustments.
Step 4: Obtaining Security Access
To modify adaptation values, you’ll need security access. Obtain the necessary code from reputable sources online. Websites like stemei.de often provide this information within their VCDS coding sections. Entering this code in the “Security Access” section of VCDS will unlock the necessary permissions.
Step 5: Verifying Security Access
After entering the code, you should receive confirmation that it was accepted. If not, double-check the code and ensure you’re in the correct module.
Step 6: Accessing Basic Settings
Navigate to “04 – Basic Settings.” Caution: Never select “Reset All Adaptations” in this menu, as it requires a dealer visit to reverse.
Step 7: Activating and Deleting Calibration
Select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go.” Once complete, select “Delete Calibration For Level Control” and press “Go.” An “Air Suspension Malfunction” error is expected at this stage.
Step 8: Setting the Reference Level
Choose “Start Up to Reference Level” and press “Go.” Your car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing sounds. This process takes approximately one minute. Do not use the “Start Up to Reference Level Production” option.
Using VCDS to adjust the air suspension requires careful attention to detail and following the correct procedures.
Step 9: Entering New Adaptation Values
Return to “10 – Adaptation” and input the new calculated values for each wheel, pressing “Do it” after each entry. You should receive a confirmation message for each successful adjustment.
Step 10: Calibrating Level Control
Go back to “04 – Basic Settings” and select “Calibrate Level Control,” pressing “Go.” Wait for completion. Any errors at this stage indicate a missed step or a more serious problem.
Step 11: Final Activation and Fault Code Reset
Select “Activate Level Control” one last time. Finally, navigate to “02 – Fault Codes” and clear any remaining codes.
Disabling Auto-Lowering and Enabling Raise at Any Speed
Step 1: Accessing the Green Menu
Access the hidden green menu by simultaneously holding the “Car” and “Menu” buttons.
Step 2: Navigating to Suspension Settings
Go to “car,” then “carmenuoperation,” and scroll down to “suspension.”
Step 3: Modifying the Suspension Value
Change the value to “5” and press the center menu knob to save.
Step 4: Rebooting the MMI
Reboot the MMI system by pressing and holding the “Menu” button, center menu knob, and the top right soft button. Cycle the ignition on/off. This disables the auto-lowering feature and allows suspension adjustments at any speed.
By following these steps meticulously, you can successfully lower your Audi using VCDS. Share your experience and results with the community to help others achieve their desired stance.
