DiagnosisUnknown

I've noticed that that I can really feel the road when I'm driving, even in comfort mode. As far as I can tell my suspension system is working properly. Is there any tweak that I can do to get a smoother ride?

TSHong

I don't think as far as suspension wide to get it softer than comfort. Looks like you are rolling on 19s so without going to 18, I don't think there is anything you can do. Check your front end because if you have a worn control arms, they can also cause harsher ride over bumps.

MP4.2+6.0

+1; assuming suspension in order, 18's (in A/S's) are your only practical move

dvs_dave

Is there a noticeable difference in ride quality between comfort and dynamic modes?

If not then your dampers are in limp mode which means they default to the highest stiffness level.

ltooz_a6_a8_q7

I tried the 17" with 55 series - too soft.

I think the 18" with 50 series will be good, but the speedometer will be wrong.

255x18x45 will be better, but I don't know how much better. The low 40s are too harsh IMO. Hate them.

Cheers,

Louis

aTOMic

Try as I might, I cannot tell a difference in ride quality in dynamic. Car goes down an inch or so and it looks better so I leave it in dynamic, but feels the same.
No suspension fault codes in VCDS.
I wonder if any gurus know off the top of their head, is there a way to check if the shock/suspension stiffness in VCDS (measuring blocks, etc)? Or does the car just ride stiffer because letting out enough air to lower it results in less compressible air in the air spring?

mishar

Shocks are stiffer in Dynamic. Actually they get stiffer the moment you switch the dial. Even before any air gets out from airsprings.

Airsprings are stiffer too for the reason you posted, so they need stiffer shocks to prevent bouncing.

aTOMic

I guess my "butt dyno" isn't as sensitive as it used to be...
If you come across where in VCDS the variable shock valve switching is reported (so I can verify mine works - although that'd set a code, I suppose), feel free to impress me further, Misha!
-Tom

dvs_dave

If no codes then check suspension fuses and relays etc. you could also try testing what the voltage is at the electrical connector on the top on the strut. Zero volts is full damper stiffness/limp mode. The greater the voltage, the softer the damper. So check for a voltage change along with changing the modes.

mishar

+1

You can also disconnect dumper harnesses and check your "butt dyno". Good for kidney stones too.