Adjusting your Xenon headlights correctly is crucial for optimal visibility and road safety. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to perform a Vcds Headlight Range adjustment on Volkswagen and Audi vehicles equipped with Xenon (HID) headlights. This procedure utilizes a Ross-Tech VCDS interface to reset the headlight motors to their center position, allowing for accurate manual adjustment. Remember, this process does not automatically align your headlights; it simply prepares them for manual adjustment using the adjusting screws.
Prerequisites for VCDS Headlight Range Adjustment
Before initiating the procedure, ensure your vehicle meets the following conditions:
- Level Ground: Park the vehicle on a level surface to ensure accurate adjustment. The vehicle should be “settled” on its suspension, meaning it has been parked for a few minutes to allow the suspension to fully settle.
- Parking Brake: The parking brake should be disengaged (OFF).
- Ignition: Turn the ignition to the “On” position without starting the engine. This powers up the necessary systems for the adjustment.
- Headlights: Ensure your headlights are switched “Off” before beginning the procedure.
Image shows a mechanic adjusting a headlight with a tool.
Step-by-Step VCDS Headlight Adjustment Procedure
Follow these steps carefully to perform the VCDS headlight range adjustment:
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Select Xenon Range: Connect your VCDS interface to your vehicle’s OBD-II port. Launch the VCDS software and select [55 – Xenon Range]. In some newer models, you may need to select [29 – Left Light] instead. Consult your vehicle’s specific documentation or the Ross-Tech wiki for confirmation.
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Access Basic Settings: Navigate to [Basic Settings – 04] and select Group 001. Then, click [Go!].
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Wait for Motor Adjustment: Allow at least 20 seconds for the headlight motors to move to their center position. You may hear them whirring during this process. This sets the headlights to their baseline adjustment position.
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Manual Adjustment: Turn on your headlights. Now, using a suitable aiming target and the manual adjusting screws on your headlights, adjust the beams to the correct height and alignment according to your local regulations and your vehicle’s specifications. This is the critical step where you physically adjust the headlight beams.
Image shows a car parked on a level surface with a building in the background
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Save Home Position: In the VCDS software, scroll up to Group 002. This action signals to the Xenon Range controller to learn the current manually adjusted position as its new Home position.
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Complete Procedure: Click the [Done, Go Back] button to finalize the procedure. Your Xenon headlights are now properly adjusted.
Troubleshooting and Considerations
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Error Messages: Lowered vehicles might display error messages in Basic Settings group 001 or 002. This could indicate that the vehicle height sensor(s) are bottomed out. If this occurs, you may need to adjust the sensor bracket to allow for proper operation. Ensure the sensor arms are correctly positioned and their pivots are facing the right direction.
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Factory Repair Manual: Always consult your vehicle’s Factory Repair Manual for specific instructions and safety precautions before performing any adjustments.
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Ross-Tech Wiki: For detailed information on specific vehicle models and newer systems using KWP-2000 or CAN, refer to the Ross-Tech wiki.
Conclusion
Performing a VCDS headlight range adjustment is a necessary step for ensuring proper headlight alignment and optimal visibility. Following this guide and adhering to the prerequisites will help you successfully adjust your Xenon headlights using the VCDS system. Remember to consult your vehicle’s specific documentation for any model-specific instructions. Always prioritize safety and take your time to ensure accurate adjustments.
