SoCalJ

I just noticed today that my "lift" mode was grayed out and that my front end appears to be scraping when it usually doesn't. All other modes are lit up (dynamic, automatic, comfort) What could this be an indication of? bad fuse, bad compressor, bad shock? I don't know where to start in order to get this fixed. Any advice would really help with my frustration.

Thanks

2k6blacka8

Well did you check for codes via VCDS?? Is the suspension lower(green car) lift(yellow car) light on the dash also?? If your front end is so low that your tires are rubbing the wheel well, yes you do have a leak in one of your front shocks. If that's your problem which most likely is you can get a good used one on ebay for $300-$400 a shock or the dealer charges you $1500-$1800 per shock. The best way to check for leaks is to get a spray bottle with a little bit of soap in it and spray the rubber part of the shock on both sides and if it bubbles in an area then you found your leak. Also check your lines too and check for cracks or holes. If I were you I would stop driving the car until you get that fixed or have it towed if you can't do it yourself. Technically it's not drivable. If you don't get it fixed in a timely manner, you can burn out your compressor in no time which is not made to run all the time.

tjf

If the height levels above your current setting are greyed out, the compressor is probably in a state where it will not run. It will not necessarily indicate a fault on the dash, but vcds will pick it up. A good possibility is the overtemp fault. You can short the sensor with a resistor, but if it runs, it probably won't last long. You will need a rebuild kit, or a new compressor.

SoCalJ

Can I go to a local Oreilly or Autozone to get my fault codes? There are no fault lights on my dash and the car is staying level without it completely slammed to the ground.

2k6blacka8

well you have to scan it by vcds software from your laptop. You can purchase the cable from rosstech.com for around $350 or so but it will pay for itself in a few repairs. Autozone/o'reil;ys only scan codes for check engine and/or ABS codes from a generic OBD-2 scanner. Unless you know a shop that can scan it for free that works on these cars.

Mister Bally

The code reader at the auto parts store only reads SAE diagnostic messages that keep the CEL on. A8 suspension faults will not be listed on the scan tool.