Lowering your Audi S7’s suspension can enhance its appearance and handling. This guide outlines the process using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) and addresses potential air suspension fault codes that may arise.
Lowering Your Audi S7 Suspension with VCDS
Before you begin, ensure your S7 is on level ground, in “Auto” mode, and all doors are closed. The car should not be in towing or tire changing mode. Any interruption can disrupt the procedure.
Steps:
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Access Module 34: Connect your VCDS and navigate to Module 34 – Level Control.
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Record Current Values: In “10 – Adaptation,” 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 values represent the factory suspension height.
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Calculate New Values: Add your desired drop in millimeters (mm) to each of the recorded values. For example, if your front left value is 384 and you want a 15mm drop, the new value would be 399. Audi recommends a maximum drop of 17mm. Exceeding this may impact other systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control. Technically, precise measurements involve measuring from the wheel center to the fender edge after the adjustment process.
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Security Access: Enter the security access code specific to your model. This code can often be found online through resources like Stemei.
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Confirmation: VCDS should confirm acceptance of the security code.
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Basic Settings (04): Navigate to “04 – Basic Settings.” Caution: Avoid selecting “Reset All Adaptations,” as this requires dealer intervention to undo.
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Activate Level Control: Select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go.”
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Delete Calibration: Select “Delete Calibration For Level Control” and press “Go.” An air suspension malfunction warning is normal at this stage.
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Start Up to Reference Level: Select “Start Up to Reference Level” and press “Go.” The car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing sounds. Do not use the “start up to reference level production” option.
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Enter New Adaptation Values: Return to “10 – Adaptation” and input the calculated new values for each wheel, confirming each entry.
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Calibrate Level Control: Go back to “04 – Basic Settings” and select “Calibrate Level Control.”
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Reactivate Level Control: Select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go.”
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Clear Fault Codes: Navigate to “02 – Fault Codes” and clear any existing codes.
Troubleshooting Air Suspension Faults
Even after a successful lowering procedure, fault codes can appear days later. Common issues include a blown 40-amp orange fuse in the trunk. If this fuse is blown, replace it and repeat the calibration process. Persistent faults may indicate a leak in the pressure accumulator, often accompanied by related Module 34 errors.
Diagnosing with VCDS
A VCDS scan can pinpoint the specific fault codes. The example provided shows several faults related to Module 34 and a detected leak in the pressure accumulator (Code: C11AF F0). Other modules might also register errors due to the suspension adjustment. Consult the Ross-Tech VCDS website for detailed information on fault codes and potential solutions, including output tests.
Conclusion
Lowering your Audi S7 with VCDS offers customization options. However, it’s crucial to follow the procedure carefully and address any resulting fault codes promptly. While a blown fuse is a simple fix, persistent issues require professional diagnosis and repair. Utilizing VCDS for troubleshooting can provide valuable insights into the underlying problem. If you’re uncomfortable performing this procedure, consult a qualified Audi technician.
