Vehicle Alignment
Vehicle alignment
General
The vehicle alignment should be measured using VW/AUDI approved wheel alignment equipment!
It is recommended that both the front and rear axles are measured (thrust angle) when carrying out alignment measurements.
Otherwise the proper running characteristics of the vehicle cannot be ensured!
Notes:
^ Vehicle alignment should not be checked before the vehicle has completed 1000 to 2000 km (600 to 1200 miles) so that the coil springs have a chance to settle.
^ When making adjustments, the specifications must be met as close as possible.
If the installation position of the rear axle (which affects the direction of travel of the vehicle) is not taken into account, the steering wheel may not be centered.
Steering wheel and steering column are marked.
A - Line on steering wheel
B - Punch mark on steering column
These positions must not be changed!
Only then the center position on the rack can be guaranteed!
Note:
^ When removing steering wheel, a basic setting of the steering angle sensor must be performed.
Steering columns supplied as replacement parts do not have a center punch mark.
After the vehicle alignment and subsequent test drive these steering columns must be marked.
Wheel alignment must be checked if:
^ Not running properly.
^ Involved in an accident and components have been changed.
^ Axle components have been removed.
^ Tires worn on one side.
Test requirements:
^ Check suspension, wheel bearing, steering and steering linkage for excessive play and damage.
^ Tread depth difference of no more than 2 mm (0.079 inch) on each axle.
^ Tires inflated to correct pressure
^ Vehicle unladen (curb weight)
^ Fuel tank must be full
^ Spare wheel and vehicle tools are stored at correct locations
^ The fluid reservoir for the windshield/headlight washer system must be full.
^ Make sure the sliding plates and turn tables (alignment equipment) are not touching an end stop when checking the wheel alignment.
Please note!
^ The test equipment must be properly adjusted and attached to vehicle; observe manufacturer's operating instructions.
Adhere to manufacturer's instructions manual of your vehicle alignment equipment for training.
Vehicle alignment platforms and vehicle alignment units/vehicle alignment computers can lose their calibration.
Vehicle alignment platforms and vehicle alignment units/vehicle alignment computers should be checked and if necessary adjusted within the framework of an inspection/maintenance at least once a year!
- Treat these highly sensitive units carefully!
Preparations for measurements
Special tools and equipment
^ VAG 1869/2 Brake pedal loading depressor
The lateral run-out of the wheel must be compensated. Otherwise the result of the measurement will be incorrect.
If the wheel run-out compensation is not performed it is not possible to adjust toe-in correctly!
When doing this observe the information from the manufacturer of the wheel alignment equipment.
- Carry out wheel run-out compensation.
- Install brake pedal loading depressor from VAG 1869/2.
- Depress brake pedal with brake pedal depressor.
Work procedure for measuring vehicle
The following work sequence of steps must be adhered to!
- Check camber on front axles and adjust if necessary.
If the values are outside the tolerance, the vehicle inclination to side must be checked and if necessary compensated before performing adjustments.
- Check rear axle camber.
The rear axle camber is not adjustable.
If the values are outside the tolerance, the vehicle inclination to the side must be checked and if necessary compensated.
If the values still deviate from the specification, it may be necessary to replace the rear axle.
- Check rear axle toe.
The rear axle toe-in is not adjustable.
If the values are outside the tolerance the vehicle inclination to the side must be checked and if necessary compensated before performing adjustments.
If the values still deviate from the specification it may be necessary to replace the rear axle.
- Check front axle toe and adjust if necessary.
Adjusting toe, Refer to Alignment, Service and Repair.
5. Check which suspension version is installed in the vehicle.
This information is found on the vehicle data label.
Vehicle data label
Explanation of the PR. numbers (factory codes)
Different suspension versions are available as optional equipment. These are identified by the PR numbers (factory codes).
The suspension version installed in a vehicle is indicated on the vehicle data plate with the relevant PR number.
The vehicle data label is located:
^ In the service booklet
^ Vehicles up to m.y. 03.00 in spare wheel well
^ Vehicles from m.y. 04.00 next to spare wheel well, near left rear wheel housing
The following table explains the PR. numbers. This is relevant for the vehicle alignment.