Lowering your D4 Audi can dramatically improve its appearance and handling. While professional installation is an option, using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) allows for precise adjustments at home. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for lowering your D4 Audi with VCDS, enabling you to achieve your desired ride height.
Understanding Ride Height Adjustment with VCDS
The factory ride height of your Audi is determined by specific coding within the Level Control module, accessible via VCDS. This code dictates the target height for each corner of the vehicle. By modifying this code, you can instruct the air suspension system to lower or raise the car. The adjustment is made in increments of 5mm per digit, allowing for fine-tuning. Before making any changes, it’s crucial to measure the current ride height at each wheel. This establishes a baseline and helps track adjustments.
Accessing the Level Control Module
To initiate the lowering process, connect your VCDS to your Audi’s OBD-II port. Then, navigate to:
- [Select] -> [34 – Level Control] -> [Coding – 10]
The stock code typically resembles “0015510”. The two “5’s” within this code represent the front and rear ride height settings. To lower the car, change these digits to a lower value (4-0, each representing a 5mm decrease). For example, changing both 5’s to 4’s will lower the car by approximately 20mm (1 inch).
Implementing the Changes
After adjusting the code:
- [Do It!]
To finalize the changes:
- Ensure your car is parked on a level surface, the engine is running, the transmission is in Park, and all doors are closed.
- Measure and record the actual height from the center of each wheel to the lower fender edge in millimeters. This is your current ride height.
Next, access the security access function:
- [Select] -> [34 – Level Control] -> [Security Access – 16]
- Enter the code: 31564
- [Do It!]
Finally, access the adaptation channels:
- [Adaptation – 10]
Fine-Tuning with Adaptation Channels
The car will cycle through its suspension adjustment. Once it settles and displays a “Ready” message, you can fine-tune each corner individually. The “Stored Value” will show the new target height based on the coding changes you made earlier.
- Channel 01 (Front Left): Enter the measured value you recorded earlier.
- [Test]
- If the value is accepted (VALID message), [Save]. If not (INVALID message), try a value slightly between the measured and target values until a VALID message is received.
- Repeat this process for Channel 02 (Front Right), Channel 03 (Rear Left), and Channel 04 (Rear Right).
Saving and Finalizing Adjustments
Once all four corners are adjusted:
- Channel 05 (Save): Enter 1
- [Test]
- [Save]
- [Done, Go Back]
After completing the process, drive around the block to allow the suspension to settle. You may need to repeat the adaptation process a few times to achieve your desired height. Minor discrepancies (within 2mm) are generally acceptable. Remember, entering a slightly higher value in the adaptation channels than the actual measured value will result in a slightly lower ride height.
Conclusion
Lowering your D4 Audi with VCDS allows for precise control over your vehicle’s ride height. By following this guide and exercising patience, you can achieve a customized stance that enhances both aesthetics and performance. Remember always to prioritize safety and work on a level surface with the engine running. While this guide provides comprehensive instructions, consulting a professional is recommended if you are uncomfortable working with VCDS or vehicle modifications.
