Lowering your Audi with VCDS is a popular modification for achieving a more aggressive stance. While some claim it’s impossible, this guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for Vcds Lowering, offering an alternative to lowering links or aftermarket modules. This method allows for adjustable ride height without the need for mechanical modifications.
Understanding the Risks and Prerequisites
Disclaimer: Modifying your vehicle’s suspension with VCDS carries inherent risks. This guide is for informational purposes only, and we are not responsible for any damage or warranty issues that may result. Proceed at your own risk.
Before you begin, ensure your Audi is equipped with air suspension and you have a genuine Ross-Tech VCDS interface. A stable internet connection and a level surface to park your car are also crucial. Set your car to “Auto” mode, close all doors, and ensure it’s not in towing or tire changing mode.
Step-by-Step VCDS Lowering Procedure
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Access Level Control Module: Connect your VCDS interface and launch the software. Navigate to Module 34 – Level Control.
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Record Current Values: Go to “10 – Adaptation” and note the four values for “Body height front left/right wheel house edge” and “Body height rear left/right wheel house edge”. These factory settings are crucial for reversing the changes later.
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Calculate New Values: Add your desired drop in millimeters (mm) to each of the recorded values. Audi generally approves a maximum drop of 17mm. Exceeding this may impact driver-assistance systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control. For a precise adjustment, measure the distance from the wheel center to the fender edge after step 7 and add your desired drop to those measurements.
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Obtain Security Access Code: Access the necessary security access code. A reputable source for this information is often found on online forums dedicated to VCDS coding. [Refer to online resources for current security access codes.]
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Enter Security Code: In VCDS, navigate to Security Access and enter the code obtained in the previous step. A confirmation message will indicate successful entry.
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Access Basic Settings: Go to “04 – Basic Settings”. Caution: Never select “Reset All Adaptations”. This action is irreversible and requires dealer intervention.
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Activate and Delete 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.
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Start Up to Reference Level: Select “Start Up to Reference Level” and press “Go”. Your car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing sounds. Do not use the “start up to reference level production” option. Wait for the process to complete.
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Enter New Adaptation Values: Return to “10 – Adaptation”. Select each “Body height… wheel house edge” setting individually, enter the corresponding calculated value from step 3, and press “Do it”. A confirmation message will appear after each successful entry.
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Calibrate Level Control: Navigate back to “04 – Basic Settings” and select “Calibrate Level Control”. Press “Go” and wait for completion. Any errors at this stage indicate a missed step or a more serious problem.
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Reactivate Level Control: Select “Activate Level Control” and press “Go”.
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Clear Fault Codes: Go to “02 – Fault Codes” and clear all codes.
Enhancing Suspension Control (Optional)
For greater control over your lowered suspension, access the hidden green menu in your Audi’s MMI by holding the “Car” and “Menu” buttons simultaneously. Navigate to “car”, then “carmenuoperation”, then “suspension”. Change the value to “5”, save the changes, and reboot the MMI. This modification prevents automatic lowering at higher speeds and enables manual raising of the suspension at any speed.
Conclusion
Successfully lowering your Audi with VCDS offers a customizable and reversible alternative to traditional methods. By carefully following these steps and understanding the potential risks, you can achieve your desired stance while retaining the functionality of your air suspension system. Remember to consult online forums and resources for the most up-to-date information and security access codes.
