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 allows for adjustable lowering without the need for additional hardware.
Understanding the Process and Precautions
This VCDS lowering method involves adjusting the air suspension’s adaptation values. It’s crucial to understand that modifying your vehicle’s settings can carry risks, potentially impacting your warranty. Proceed with caution and at your own discretion. This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of VCDS and the green menu.
Before you begin, ensure your S7 is on level ground, in “Auto” mode, with all doors closed, and not in towing or tire-changing mode. Any interruption can disrupt the procedure.
Step-by-Step VCDS Lowering Instructions
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Access Level Control Module: Connect your VCDS cable 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 reversal if needed.
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Calculate New Values: Determine your desired drop in millimeters (mm). Audi recommends a maximum drop of 17mm. Exceeding this may affect systems like cameras and adaptive cruise control. Add your desired drop to each of the four recorded values. For example, if your front left value is 384.5 and you want a 15mm drop, your new value will be 399.5.
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Obtain Security Access Code: Access the security access function within VCDS and enter the code specific to your Audi model. This code can be found on various online forums dedicated to VCDS coding. Note: We avoid directly sharing this sensitive information.
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Verify Security Access: You should receive confirmation that the security code was accepted. If not, troubleshoot the issue before proceeding.
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Access Basic Settings: Navigate to “04 – Basic Settings.” Caution: Avoid selecting “Reset All Adaptations,” as this action requires dealer intervention to reverse.
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Activate and Delete Calibration: Select “Activate Level Control,” then “Go.” Once complete, select “Delete Calibration For Level Control” and “Go.” An “Air Suspension Malfunction” error is expected.
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Start Up to Reference Level: Choose “Start Up to Reference Level” and “Go.” Your car will adjust its height, accompanied by hissing sounds. Important: Do not use the “Start Up to Reference Level Production” option. Wait for the process to finish.
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Enter New Adaptation Values: Return to “10 – Adaptation.” Select each “Body height…” field individually, enter the corresponding calculated value, and click “Do it.” Repeat for all four wheels. You should receive confirmation after each entry.
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Calibrate and Activate: Go back to “04 – Basic Settings.” Select “Calibrate Level Control” and then “Go.” Finally, select “Activate Level Control” and “Go.”
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Clear Fault Codes: Navigate to “02 – Fault Codes” and clear any existing codes.
Enhancing Suspension Control with the Green Menu
This optional step allows you to prevent automatic lowering at higher speeds and enables manual raising at any speed.
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Access the Green Menu: Hold the “Car” and “Menu” buttons simultaneously.
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Navigate to Suspension Settings: Go to “car,” then “carmenuoperation,” and scroll down to “suspension.”
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Adjust Suspension Value: Change the value to “5” and save by pressing the center menu knob.
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Reboot MMI: Reboot the MMI system by pressing the “Menu” button, center knob, and top right soft button together. Cycle the ignition.
By following these steps carefully, you can achieve your desired lowered look for your Audi S7. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with experienced users or professionals if you encounter any difficulties.
