What’s the Best Approach to Adjusting the Ride Height of an Air Suspension on an Audi Q7?

From sports cars to luxury SUVs, Audi is a brand synonymous with style, performance and comfort. It’s not surprising, then, that many Audi Q7 owners are keen on heightening these attributes by adjusting the ride height of their vehicle’s air suspension. But what’s the best approach to this task?

Through this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of Audi’s air suspension system, focusing on the Audi Q7. We’ll explain how it works, the controls you can utilise, and the steps to adjust it to your preferred ride height. You don’t need to be a car enthusiast or a mechanical expert to understand this – we’ll provide all the information in clear, everyday English.

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Understanding Audi’s Air Suspension System

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of adjusting the ride height, it’s important to understand the workings of the Audi air suspension system. This is a suspension system that uses air as a buffer instead of conventional springs. The air suspension system in an Audi is designed to provide you the ultimate comfort, control, and flexibility in your ride.

In an Audi Q7, the air suspension system has various modes such as the dynamic mode, comfort mode, and allroad mode. Each mode has its unique setting and adjusting the height can alter your car’s performance, speed, and comfort level. This system is a significant part of the Audi driving experience.

The Importance of Ride Height

The ride height of a vehicle is a critical factor in determining its handling, speed, and comfort. For the Audi Q7, adjusting the air suspension to either raise or lower the ride height can significantly influence its performance.

By lowering the ride height, your Audi Q7 will have a lower centre of gravity, which improves handling and stability at high-speeds. Lowering your vehicle can also reduce wind resistance, thereby increasing the speed. However, a too-low ride height can lead to a harsher ride due to reduced suspension travel.

On the other hand, raising the ride height will make your Audi Q7 more adept at traversing rough terrains. A higher ride height can also provide a softer and more comfortable ride due to increased suspension travel. But remember, a too-high ride height might affect your vehicle’s handling and speed due to a higher centre of gravity.

Adjusting the Audi Q7 Air Suspension

Armed with an understanding of the air suspension system and the effects of ride height, you are now ready to adjust your Audi Q7’s air suspension. Audi has made this process fairly straightforward.

You can do this by using the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface). This is essentially your control centre for your vehicle, where you can adjust various aspects of your Audi, including the suspension. Follow the steps below:

Start your Audi Q7 and let it run for a few minutes.
On the MMI, select "CAR."
Then select "Audi drive select individual."
Now select "Suspension comfort."
You will see options to adjust the ride height. Choose your desired height.

Remember, when adjusting the ride height, always consider your driving conditions and your preference for speed, comfort, and handling.

Forums and Kits for Suspension Adjustment

Online forums are a treasure trove of experiences and insights shared by other Audi Q7 owners. If you’re having difficulties or just want more information, you can always turn to these forums. Also, don’t shy away from asking questions – the community will be more than ready to reply with valuable advice.

For more extensive modifications, you might consider getting an aftermarket air suspension kit. These kits generally offer more control and fine-tuning than the standard Audi system. But remember, installing these kits may involve complex procedures, and it’s often recommended to hire a professional.

Adjusting the ride height of your Audi Q7’s air suspension system is a fantastic way to tailor your vehicle to your specific driving preferences and conditions. Whether you want a sportier feel, optimal comfort, or an all-terrain beast, the choice is in your hands. Happy driving!

Utilizing Airtech Deluxe and Understanding Its Components

Airtech Deluxe is a popular aftermarket air suspension kit among Audi Q7 owners who want to take their ride height adjustment to the next level. This kit is known for its adjustable lowering capabilities, making it a go-to choice for those who want an extra level of customizability.

The main components of the kit include billet aluminum control arms, an air compressor, and adaptive air bags. The billet aluminum control arms are exceptionally durable and lightweight, ensuring that your Audi Q7 maintains its smooth handling even with the kit installed. The air compressor, on the other hand, supplies the air needed to fill and adjust the adaptive air bags, which control the ride height.

To adjust the ride height using the Airtech Deluxe, you would follow a similar process to the one you would on the Audi MMI system. However, instead of choosing from pre-set options, you can freely adjust the height to your exact preference. The kit also comes with a digital controller for easier adjustments. It’s essential to remember that this process is more complex than adjusting through the MMI, and although many users can complete this process themselves, it might be best to hire a professional if you are not comfortable with this level of alteration.

The Role of Drive Select and Its Impact on Suspension

Audi’s Drive Select system, available in the Audi Q7, allows drivers to choose from several pre-set driving modes, including comfort mode, dynamic mode, and allroad mode. These modes affect the vehicle’s handling, throttle response, and, importantly, the suspension settings.

In dynamic mode, the Audi Q7 will automatically lower its ride height for improved handling and speed. The system stiffens the suspension, which reduces body roll and enhances high-speed stability, making this mode ideal for highway driving or fast-paced environments.

The comfort mode, on the other hand, provides a softer suspension setting for a smoother ride. This mode may raise the ride height slightly, depending on the conditions, to increase suspension travel and provide a more comfortable experience, particularly on rough roads.

Finally, the allroad mode raises the ride height to the highest setting to better handle off-road conditions. This mode increases ground clearance, providing the wheels with more travel to absorb the impact of rough terrains.

While the Drive Select system doesn’t offer the same level of customizability as an aftermarket Airtech Deluxe kit, it provides an easy and convenient way for Audi Q7 owners to adjust their ride height based on their driving conditions or preferences.

Conclusion: Embrace the Flexibility of Audi’s Air Suspension

The air suspension system on your Audi Q7 gives you the luxury of customizing your ride. Whether it’s using the vehicle’s built-in MMI system to pick a driving mode that suits your needs or opting for an aftermarket Airtech Deluxe kit for more specific adjustments, there’s a wealth of options to explore.

Remember, adjusting the ride height isn’t just about achieving a certain look or feel. It’s about optimizing your vehicle’s handling, speed, and comfort. It’s a dynamic tool that can transform your Audi Q7 into a high-speed cruiser, an off-road beast, or a smooth city driver.

So, take your time, experiment with different settings, and don’t hesitate to reach out to online forums or professionals if you need further guidance. Enjoy the drive and the journey of making your Audi Q7 truly your own. The great thing about owning an Audi with an air suspension system is the control it gives you over your driving experience. Now, with this knowledge, you’re ready to take that control to new heights.