2021 AUDI A7 wheel

Driving dynamic

wheels to reduce the steering effort needed by
the driver and to reduce the turning radius. Vehi-
cle handling improves. At high speeds, steering
the rear wheels in the same direction as the front
wheels improves the vehicle response and driving
stability. The vehicle reacts quickly and precisely
to the driver's steering movements.
Messages
& Steering: malfunction! Please stop vehicle
The power steering may have failed. Adapt your
driving style immediately to compensate for the
fact that it may be more difficult to turn the
steering wheel, and stop your vehicle in a safe lo-
cation as soon as possible. Do not continue driv-
ing. See an authorized Audi dealer or authorized
Audi Service Facility for assistance.
& Steering: malfunction! Please stop vehicle.
Pay attention to distance at side
The rear axle steering may have failed. More
space on the road may be needed at the side of
the vehicle, and the turning radius may be much
larger. Slow down immediately, and stop your ve-
hicle as soon as possible in a safe location with
enough space at the sides of the vehicle. Do not
continue driving. See an authorized Audi dealer
or authorized Audi Service Facility for assistance.
io] Steering: malfunction! Please stop vehicle
There is a malfunction in the electronic steering
lock. You cannot turn the ignition on. Secure the
vehicle against rolling before exiting the vehicle
= page 94. Do not tow your vehicle because it
cannot be steered. See an authorized Audi dealer
or authorized Audi Service Facility for assistance.
& Steering: malfunction! You can continue
driving
There is a malfunction in the steering system.
Steering may be more difficult or more sensitive.
Adapt your driving style. Have the steering sys-
tem checked immediately by an authorized Audi
dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility. Please
note that the red indicator light may turn on af-
ter restarting the engine. Do not continue driving
if it does.
114
a Steering: malfunction! Adapt driving style.
Larger turning radius
The rear axle steering may have failed. The vehi-
cle will have a larger turning radius, and the sta-
bility when driving around curves will be compa-
rable to a vehicle without rear axle steering. Drive
carefully to an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Audi Service Facility to have the malfunction
corrected.
& Steering lock: malfunction! Please contact
Service
There is a malfunction in the electronic steering
lock. Drive immediately to an authorized Audi
dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility to have
the malfunction repaired.
Dynamic steering: correcting steering wheel
position
The steering is reinitializing. The steering wheel
will move easily after starting the vehicle. Reiniti-
alization might be necessary if the steering wheel
was moved while the engine was switched off.
The display turns off if the initialization was suc-
cessful.

Z\ WARNING
Do not tow your vehicle if there is a malfunc-
tion in the electronic steering lock because
this increases the risk of an accident.
@) Tips
— If there is a malfunction, the steering wheel
may be crooked when driving straight.
—Ifthe a or & indicator light only stays on
for a short time, you may continue driving.

ALL wheel drive (quattro)
Applies to: vehicles with all wheel drive
The all-wheel drive system distributes the driving
power variably to the front and rear axle to im-
prove the driving characteristics. It works togeth-
er with selective wheel torque control, which can
activate when driving through curves
> page 116.

4K8012721BF
Driving dynamic

The all-wheel drive system is designed for high
engine power. Your vehicle is exceptionally pow-
erful and has excellent driving characteristics
both under normal driving conditions and on
snow and ice. Always read and follow safety pre-
cautions > A\.
Quattro ultra
Applies to: vehicles with quattro ultra
If the driving situation does not require all wheel
drive, then the rear section of the drivetrain will
decouple and thus save fuel. The system con-
stantly determines and anticipates if all wheel
drive is needed. This allows the rear drivetrain to
recouple shortly before it is needed.

ZA WARNING
— Even in vehicles with all wheel drive, you
should adapt your driving style to the cur-
rent road and traffic conditions to reduce
the risk of an accident.
— The braking ability of your vehicle is limited
to the traction of the wheels. In this way, it
is not different from a two wheel drive vehi-
cle. Do not drive too fast because this in-
creases the risk of an accident.
— Note that on wet streets, the front wheels
can “hydroplane’” if driving at speeds that
are too high. Unlike front wheel drive
vehicles, the engine RPM does not increase
suddenly when the vehicle begins hydro-
planing. Adapt your speed to the road condi-
tions to reduce the risk of an accident.

Syed)
Applies to: vehicles with sport differential
The sport differential distributes the drive power
to the rear axle based on the situation. The goal
is a high level of agility and ability to accelerate
on curves. The vehicle is very responsive to steer-
ing. The settings depend on the selected Audi
drive select* mode.
t3] All-wheel drive: malfunction! You can con-
tinue driving. Please contact Service
Drive immediately to an authorized Audi dealer
or authorized Audi Service Facility to have the
malfunction repaired.
it} Sport differential: malfunction! Please con-
tact Service
Drive immediately to an authorized Audi dealer
or authorized Audi Service Facility to have the
malfunction repaired.
it} All-wheel drive: too hot. Please adapt driv-
ing style. See owner's manual
The transmission temperature has increased sig-
nificantly due to the sporty driving manner. Drive
in a less sporty manner until the temperature re-
turns to the normal range and the indicator light
switches of.
73} Sport differential: temperature too high.
Please adapt driving style
The transmission temperature has increased sig-
nificantly due to the sporty driving manner. Drive
in a less sporty manner until the temperature re-
turns to the normal range and the indicator light
switches of.

ZA\ WARNING
Contact an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Audi Service Facility if the sport differen-
tial is faulty or malfunctioning. The repair
must be performed by trained personnel us-
ing the correct oil in order to ensure safety.


Electronic Stabilization
Control
Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) supports
driver safety. It reduces the risk of slipping and
improves driving stability. ESC detects critical sit-
uations, such as if the vehicle is oversteering or
understeering, or if the wheels are spinning.
The brakes are applied or the engine torque is re-
duced in order to stabilize the vehicle.
The following stabilization functions are integrat-
ed into the ESC, among others: >
115

Driving dynamic

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
ABS prevents the wheels from locking when brak-
ing. The vehicle can still be steered even during
hard braking. Apply steady pressure to the brake
pedal. Do not pump the pedal.
A pulsing in the brake pedal indicates that the
system is acting to stabilize the vehicle.
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
ASR reduces drive power when the wheels begin
spinning and adapts the power to the road condi-
tions. This will increase the driving stability.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
The EDL applies the brakes to wheels that are
slipping and transfers the drive power to the oth-
er wheels. This function is not available at higher
speeds.
In extreme cases, EDL automatically switches off
to keep the brake on the braked wheel from over-
heating. The vehicle is still functioning correctly.
EDL will switch on again automatically when con-
ditions have returned to normal.
Selective wheel torque control
Selective wheel torque control is used when driv-
ing on curves. Braking is targeted toward the
wheels on the inside of the curve as needed. This
allows more precise driving in curves.
Power steering
The ESC can also support vehicle stability
through steering.

ZA\ WARNING
— The ESC and its integrated systems cannot
overcome the limits imposed by natural
physical laws. This is especially important on
slippery or wet roads. If the systems begin
acting to stabilize your vehicle, you should
immediately alter your speed to match the
road and traffic conditions. Do not let the in-
creased safety provided tempt you into tak-
ing risks. This could increase your risk of a
collision.
— Please note the risk of a collision increases
when driving fast, especially through curves

116

and on slippery or wet roads, and when driv-
ing too close to objects ahead. There is still
a risk of accidents because the ESC and its
integrated systems cannot always prevent
collisions.
— Accelerate carefully when driving on
smooth, slippery surfaces such as ice and
snow. The drive wheels can spin even when
these control systems are installed and this
can affect driving stability and increase the
risk of a collision.
G) Tips
— The ABS and ASR only function correctly
when all four wheels have a similar wear
condition. Different tire sizes can lead toa
reduction in engine power.
— You may hear noises when the systems de-
scribed are working.
The So button (or , depending on the model)
for controlling the ESC is located in the center
console, in front of the selector lever. The ESC is
automatically switched on when the ignition is
switched on.

Limiting ESC
In some situations, it may make sense to limit
the stabilizing function of the ESC so that the
wheels can spin, for example to rock a vehicle to
free it when it is stuck or to drive with snow
chains. The ESC can also be limited to provide
more sporty driving characteristics with fewer
stabilizing corrective actions.
—To limit the ESC, press the oF button briefly.
The B indicator light will turn on.
— To completely reactivate the ESC stabilization
function, press the button again. The indicator
light turns off.
Switching off ESC
For a more active control of the vehicle where the
stabilizing functions of the ESC cannot intervene,
the ESC can be switched off.

4K8012721BF
Driving dynamic

— To switch off the ESC, press and hold the Sor
button for more than three seconds. The B
and Ea indicator lights turn on.
— To completely reactivate the ESC stabilization
function, press the button again. The indicator
lights turn off.

ZA\ WARNING
— When the ESC is switched off or limited,
there will be no vehicle stabilization or it will
be limited. The driving wheels could spin
and the vehicle could swerve, especially on
slick or slippery road surfaces, which in-
creases the risk of an accident.
— Because of the increased risk of an accident,
only drive with the ESC switched off or limit-
ed when it is necessary. Reactivate the ESC
as soon as possible.

@) Tips
— If the ESC is limited, switched off, or mal-
functioning, systems with an automatic
braking intervention function may not be
fully available.
—If malfunctions occur in other systems or
certain driver assist systems are active, the
ESC must be switched on by the system. The
ESC
may switch on automatically and can-
not be operated with the button.
I fs / I © Stabilization control (ESC/
ABS): malfunction! See owner's manual
There is a malfunction in the ABS or EDL. This al-
so causes the ESC to malfunction. The brakes still
function with their normal power, but ABS is not
active.
Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or authorized
Audi Service Facility immediately to have the
malfunction corrected.
Other indicator lights
If blinks while driving, the ESC is actively reg-
ulating. Operating noises may occur. If the indi-
cator light stays on, the ESC has been switched
off due to system needs. The indicator light turns
off when the system is fully functional.
Rear spoiler
The 3% button is located in the function bar on
the lower display. The rear spoiler increases driv-
ing stability.
The rear spoiler extends automatically at speeds
above approximately 75 mph (120 km/h). It will
retract automatically when the speed drops be-
low approximately 50 mph (80 km/h).
Applies to: RS models: The rear spoiler extends
automatically at speeds above approximately 62
mph (100 km/h). It will retract automatically
when the speed drops below approximately
37 mph (60 km/h).
You can also extend and retract the rear spoiler
manually.
> Extending: press 3% briefly.
> Retracting: press and hold 3% when driving at
speeds up to approximately 10 mph (20 km/h).
At speeds from approximately 10 mph (20
km/h) to 75 mph (120 km/h), press 3% briefly.

Z\ WARNING
— Make sure that the rear spoiler is extended
at speeds above 85 mph (140 km/h). Other-
wise, the reduced driving stability will in-
crease the risk of an accident.
—To reduce the risk of injury, make sure there
are no people or objects within range of the
rear spoiler when extending and retracting
it
@) Note
—To reduce the risk of damage, do not press
on the rear spoiler if pushing the vehicle.
—To reduce the risk of damage, never lean
against the rear spoiler or place heavy pres-
sure on it.

—To reduce the risk of damage when extend-
ing or retracting the rear spoiler, make sure
the luggage compartment lid is closed and
117

Trailer towing

you are operating the vehicle. Contact an author-
ized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facili-
ty for more information.
Before you start driving, check all lighting equip-
ment on the trailer while it is hitched to the vehi-
cle.
The headlight range control automatically ad-
justs the light range of the headlights.
Safety chains
Make sure the safety chains are correctly applied
when pulling a trailer. The chains should hang
enough so that the trailer can drive around
curves. However, they must not touch the
ground.
Air suspension
Applies to: vehicles with air suspension
The Audi drive select* Comfort mode > page 111
must be selected before you adjust the tongue
weight on the trailer and hitch the trailer >@,
=> page 112.
Likewise, the vehicle cannot be raised manually
using the Raise function > page 112.
The air suspension trailer mode must be switched
on.
Applies to MMI: select on the home screen: VE-
HICLE > Settings & Service > Air suspension:
trailer.
Switch trailer mode off again when you are no
longer towing a trailer.
When using rear carrier systems that are mount-
ed directly on the trailer hitch ball head, you can
also switch trailer mode off manually.
If you must drive on roads that are in poor condi-
tion, you can raise the vehicle again after hitching
the trailer or after adjusting the tongue weight
=> page 112.
Vehicle levels below the values set in the Com-
fort level will no longer be available, even if you
are lowering the vehicle manually.
136

ZA WARNING
Applies to: vehicles with air suspension
— Never turn off trailer mode while driving
when a trailer is hitched, because then the
restrictions for controlling the vehicle level
will be turned off.
— Driving with a trailer on unpaved roads when
the vehicle is raised may change the vehicle
handling. Adapt your speed.
— Note that the vehicle will lower automatical-
ly at certain speeds if you have lifted the ve-
hicle manually.
C) Note
— Applies to: vehicles with air suspension: Se-
lect the Audi drive select* Comfort mode.
Otherwise, the tongue load specified for
your vehicle will no longer be applicable.
— Attachments retrofitted on the vehicle may
cause damage, especially on the trailer
hitch ball head. In cases of damage, have
the function checked by an authorized Audi
dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility.
@) Tips
— Block the wheels with chocks when parking
on inclines if the trailer is loaded.
— Audi recommends having the vehicle in-
spected between the inspection intervals if
you tow a trailer frequently.
— Avoid driving with a trailer during the vehi-
cle break-in period.
Pie Rie Relig
Driving with a trailer requires extra caution.

Speed
Adhere to the legal speed limits. Follow the legal
regulations that are applicable in the country
where you are operating the vehicle.
As the speed increases, the driving stability of
the trailer decreases. Therefore you should not
exceed the maximum legal speed limit when
there are unfavorable road, weather, and/or wind
conditions. This especially applies when driving
downhill.

4K8012721BF
Trailer towing

Hill
When you start driving uphill or downhill, trailers
may tilt or sway sooner than when driving ona
level surface. If small swaying movements have
already occurred, you can stabilize the trailer by
firmly braking immediately. Never attempt to
“straighten out” the trailer by accelerating.
Conventional drive system: Downshift before
driving on hills to utilize the engine braking ef-
fect SA.
Plug-in hybrid drive system: Reduce the speed
and use the recuperation braking effect
=> page 101 to relieve the brakes > A\.
Brakes
When using a trailer with overrun brakes, first
brake gently then quickly. This reduces the risk of
jerking while braking if the trailer wheels lock up.
Engine coolant temperature
Pay attention specifically to the coolant tempera-
ture display when there are high outside temper-
atures, and when driving on long inclines
=> page 14. Shift to a higher gear in a timely man-
ner.

Z\ WARNING
Constant braking causes the brakes to over-
heat and can substantially reduce braking per-
formance, increase braking distance, or cause
complete failure of the brake system.

137

Assist systems

Assist systems
General information
SP ae eel idol ay

ZA WARNING
— As the driver, you are always completely re-
sponsible for all driving tasks. The assist
systems cannot replace the driver's atten-
tion. Give your full attention to driving the
vehicle, and be ready to intervene in the
traffic situation at all times.
— Activate the assist systems only if the sur-
rounding conditions permit it. Always adapt
your driving style to the current visual,
weather, road, and traffic conditions.
— Loose objects can be thrown around the ve-
hicle interior during sudden driving or brak-
ing maneuvers, which increases the risk of
an accident. Store objects securely while
driving.
— For the assist systems to be able to react
correctly, the function of the sensors and
cameras must not be restricted. Note the in-
formation on sensors and cameras
=> page 139.

@ Tips
— Pay attention to applicable local regulations
relating to driving tasks, leaving space for
emergency vehicles, vehicle distance, speed,
parking location, wheel placement, etc. The
driver is always responsible for following
the laws that are applicable in the location
where the vehicle is being operated.
— You can cancel a steering or braking inter-
vention by the system, by braking or accel-
erating noticeably, steering, or deactivating
the respective assist system.
— Always check the assist systems settings be-
fore driving. The settings could have been
changed, for example by other drivers or by
using another user.
138
System limitations
ZA\ WARNING
—The use of an assist system cannot over-
come the natural laws of physics. A collision
cannot be prevented in certain circumstan-
ces.
— Warnings, messages, or indicator lights may
not be displayed or initiated on time or cor-
rectly, for example, if vehicles are approach-
ing very fast.
— Corrective interventions by the assist sys-
tems, such as steering or braking interven-
tions, may not be sufficient or they may not
occur. Always be ready to intervene.
G) Tips
— Due to the system limitations when detect-
ing the surrounding area, the systems may
warn or intervene unexpectedly or too late
in certain situations. The assist systems may
also interpret a driving maneuver incorrectly
and then warn the driver unexpectedly.
— The systems may not function as expected
in unusual driving situations, such as driving
offroad, on unpaved roads, on loose ground,
on inclines, or on grooves in the road.



— The systems may not function correctly in
unclear traffic situations, such as turning
lanes, exit ramps, construction zones, rises
or dips that obstruct visibility, intersections,
toll stations, or city traffic.
— The detection of the surrounding area can
be limited, for example by vehicles driving
ahead or by rain, snow, heavy spray, or light
shining into the camera.
— The steering wheel touch recognition may
be limited when you wear gloves. Steering
intervention requests from the steering as-
sist systems may occur more frequently.
— If accessories have been mounted on the
steering wheel, the steering assist systems
may
be limited. The frequency of steering
intervention requests from the steering as-
sist systems may vary as well.

4K8012721BF

Assist systems

Surrounding area
detection

Sensor and camera coverage areas

RAZ-0610)




B8V-0687


Fig. 92 Rearview camera coverage area
The assist systems analyze the data from various
sensors and cameras installed in the vehicle. Do
not use any assist systems if there is damage to
the vehicle in an area where sensors and cameras
are located or on the vehicle underbody, or if the
vehicle was involved in a collision. The functional-
ity of the sensors and cameras could be impaired,
or they could malfunction. Have an authorized
Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility
check their function.
Radar sensors
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the area
surrounding the entire vehicle may be detected
> fig. 91.
The wheel sensors on the rear corners of the vehi-
cle are positioned so that the adjacent lanes to
the left and right are detected on roads with a
normal lane width.
Ultrasonic sensors
Depending on vehicle equipment, various areas
may be displayed in the MMI using the ultrasonic
sensors > fig. 91.
The range of the displays depends on the location
of the ultrasonic sensors:
@ Approximately 4 feet (1.20 m)
@® Approximately 3 feet (0.90 m)
@® Approximately 5.2 feet (1.60 m)
© Approximately 3 feet (0.90 m)
© Approximately 3 feet (0.90 m)
The side area © is detected and evaluated when
passing. There may have been changes to the sur-
rounding area after switching the ignition off and
on again, after opening the doors, or if the vehi-
cle is left stationary for a period of time. In this
case, the area will appear black until the area has
been detected and evaluated.
Cameras
Use the camera image on the display to assist you
only if it shows a good, clear picture. Keep in
mind that the image in the display is enlarged
and distorted. Under certain circumstances, ob-
jects may appear different and unclear on the dis-
play.
The rearview camera can only detect the area
marked in red > fig. 92. Only this area is dis-
played on the upper display > A\.

ZA WARNING
Sensors and cameras have spots in which the
surrounding area cannot be detected. Objects,
animals, and people may only be detected
with limitations may not be detected at all.
Always monitor the traffic and the vehicle's >


139