FAQ
TL;DR: Stuck in lift mode and code 059D on Audi A6 air suspension? 15 km/h auto‑exit applies—“The hoist mode should turn off after exceeding 15 km/h.” Use a level surface, clear DTCs, verify sensor readings, and, if needed, input heights manually via VCDS. [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17022011]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Audi A6 owners and indie techs fix failed air‑suspension calibration and restore height control.
Quick Facts
- Lift/Hoist mode should auto‑cancel at approx. 15 km/h; if not, suspect a stuck pneumatic valve. [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17022011]
- Typical level‑sensor supply is 5 V; confirm the 5 V reference before condemning sensors. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17014855]
- Starting Basic Settings can reset stored measurements; expect cleared values until you re‑enter heights. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17028041]
- KTS can abort adaptation with “unexpected response from the controller” on this platform. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17044040]
- VCDS supports manual entry of measured arch‑to‑hub heights and can complete calibration when auto routines fail. [Elektroda, Dawidson1996, post #17040291]
What does fault 059D “Basic setting not performed/incorrect” mean and how do I clear it?
It flags an incomplete or incorrect air‑suspension calibration. Clear all DTCs, then adapt on a flat, level surface. Verify live data from each height sensor for plausible movement. Fix any wiring or connector issues first, then re‑run Basic Settings. “Clear all errors and adapt on a flat level surface can help.” [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17014758]
How do I exit Lift/Hoist mode on the A6 if it’s stuck?
Lift mode should auto‑cancel once you exceed about 15 km/h. If it does not, check for a blocked pneumatic valve. Try a short drive to trigger auto‑exit, then re‑attempt calibration when conditions are met. “The hoist mode should turn off after exceeding 15 km/h.” [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17022011]
Why are all level sensors reading 0 mm after a calibration attempt?
Starting Basic Settings can reset stored measurements, so the blocks may show cleared values. That looks like 0 mm or blank baselines until you re‑enter heights. Inspect each sensor and linkage physically before rerunning adaptation. Reenter correct heights to restore valid readings. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17028041]
Which diagnostic tool should I use to calibrate the A6 air suspension?
Use VCDS when automated routines fail. It allows manual entry of measured heights, which resolved calibration in the reported case. If another tool errors out, switch to VCDS and enter the four corner measurements. This approach completed calibration properly. [Elektroda, Dawidson1996, post #17040291]
How do I manually calibrate by entering arch‑to‑hub heights?
- Measure the distance from each wheel’s hub center to the fender arch.
- In the suspension controller’s adaptation/basic settings, input the four measured values.
- Save the settings to store the new baseline heights and finish calibration. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17040062]
What prep conditions must be met before running adaptation?
Park on a level surface with the steering wheel straight and doors closed. Start the engine so voltage is stable. Confirm each height sensor has a 5 V reference and live data changes with movement. Only then attempt Basic Settings. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17014855]
Adaptation shows “unexpected response from the controller.” What now?
If a routine aborts with that message, use a tool that permits manual height entry. VCDS lets you input the measured values and complete calibration. This method succeeded when automatic procedures could not finish. Re‑run adaptation after entering all four heights. [Elektroda, Dawidson1996, post #17040291]
Can I drive while it’s in lift mode and height changes don’t work?
Yes, you can drive normally, but height changes are disabled while lift mode is active. You can force the car down and reinflate using a capable scan tool to test pneumatic response. Restore proper calibration to regain on‑the‑fly adjustments. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17022172]
How do I check if a height sensor or connector is at fault?
Open measurement blocks and watch each sensor’s live values while moving the suspension slightly. Inspect connectors for corrosion or looseness that increases sensor resistance. Repair wiring or replace the sensor if readings are implausible or stuck. “See if a sensor gives false values or a plug has gone stale.” [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17014758]
Will disconnecting the battery help reset the suspension module?
Yes, a short battery disconnect can reboot the controller and clear a hung state. Leave it off for a few minutes, then reconnect and recheck. “Remember… look for the code for the radio” before you do this reset. [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17022196]
Why won’t Lift mode switch off automatically?
It should switch off after you exceed about 15 km/h. If it remains active, suspect a blocked pneumatic valve preventing normal operation. Resolve the mechanical fault, then perform calibration to restore full control. [Elektroda, mateov3000, post #17022011]
Before calibration I saw about a dozen millimetres mismatch between corners—is that normal?
A small mismatch can appear before calibration, especially if the baseline is off. You still need to calibrate by entering accurate arch‑to‑hub values. Larger persistent differences suggest a sensor or linkage issue that needs correction first. [Elektroda, Coolbit, post #17032420]
