Lowering your Audi S7 can dramatically enhance its appearance and handling. While lowering links and modules offer solutions, this guide explores achieving a lowered stance using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System), a powerful tool for customizing your Audi. This method offers a potentially reversible alternative to mechanical modifications.
Understanding the Risks and Prerequisites
Disclaimer: Modifying your vehicle’s settings can impact its warranty and performance. Proceed with caution and at your own risk. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Ensure your car is on level ground, in “Auto” mode, and doors are closed throughout the process to avoid interruptions. Confirm your vehicle is not in towing or tire changing mode. A basic understanding of VCDS is recommended.
Required:
- VCDS Software and compatible cable
- Access to the internet for security code retrieval
- Measuring tape (optional, for precise adjustments)
Lowering Procedure with VCDS
Step 1: Accessing Level Control Module:
Connect VCDS to your Audi S7 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 serve as your baseline. Record these values accurately.
Step 3: Calculating New Values:
Determine your desired drop in millimeters (mm). Audi recommends a maximum drop of 17mm. Exceeding this may affect driver-assistance systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control. Add your desired drop to each of the initial values recorded in Step 2. For instance, if your front left value was 384.5 and you desire a 15mm drop, the new value would be 399.5.
Step 4: Obtaining Security Access:
Navigate to “Security Access.” Enter the security access code specific to your Audi model. This code can be found on reputable online resources like Stemei.de (search for “Audi A6 4G Elektronische Tieferlegung des AAS”).
Step 5: Activating and Deleting Calibration:
After successful security access, go to “04 – Basic Settings.” Crucially, avoid selecting “Reset All Adaptations,” as this requires dealer intervention to reverse. Select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go.” Once complete, select “Delete Calibration For Level Control” and press “Go.” An air suspension fault code is expected at this stage.
Step 6: Setting Reference Level:
Choose “Start Up to Reference Level” and press “Go.” The car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing sounds. This process takes approximately one minute. Do not use “Start Up to Reference Level Production.”
Step 7: Entering New Adaptation Values:
Return to “10 – Adaptation.” Select each “Body height…wheel house edge” setting individually. Input the corresponding new value calculated in Step 3 and press “Do it.” Repeat for all four wheels. You should receive confirmation after each successful entry.
Step 8: Calibrating and Activating:
Navigate back to “04 – Basic Settings.” Select “Calibrate Level Control” and press “Go.” Finally, select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go.”
Step 9: Clearing Fault Codes:
Go to “02 – Fault Codes” and clear any existing codes. Your Audi S7 should now be lowered.
Disabling Auto-Lowering and Enabling Raise at Any Speed (Optional)
Step 1: Accessing the Green Menu:
Access the hidden green menu by simultaneously holding the “Car” and “Menu” buttons.
Step 2: Modifying Suspension Settings:
Navigate to “car,” then “carmenuoperation,” and scroll down to “suspension.” Change the value to “5” and save by pressing the center menu knob.
Step 3: Rebooting MMI:
Reboot the MMI system by pressing the “Menu” button, center menu knob, and the top right soft button simultaneously. Cycle the ignition on and off. This disables the automatic lowering at higher speeds and enables the raise function regardless of speed.
This modification provides greater control over your lowered suspension, especially when navigating uneven roads. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local traffic laws. If you experience any issues, consult a qualified Audi technician.
