A5 CAMERA CALIBRATION AND LIGHT ASSIST AFTER WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT (AUDI Q3)
Technical guide 2025 by Gianni Tritella . When and how to recalibrate the A5 camera on the Audi Q3 after a windshield change, impacts, or coding in 09/55 (OBDEleven/VCDS). Practical procedure, basic settings, and final checks.
Updated 08/30/2025 • Based on real workshop diagnoses and OEM procedures
✅ When recalibration is needed
The A5 (Front Sensor Driver Assist) camera manages Light Assist/automatic high beam , signal recognition and other ADAS. Recalibration is necessary when:
- Replace the windshield or camera bracket.
- Perform work on alignment, heights, toe-in or suspension.
- After frontal collisions or repairs in the camera area.
- After coding/adaptations in 09/55/A5 (OBDeleven/VCDS/ODIS).
- If warning lights appear ( Adaptive Light ), DTC in A5/55 or Light Assist is not activated.
🧰 Prerequisites and security
- Stabilized power supply (≥ 40–70 A) connected during Basic Settings.
- Flat surface , correct tire pressures, standard load; steering wheel aligned.
- Wheel geometry within tolerance; suspension and level sensors intact.
- ADAS certified target board/jig and measurements compliant with OEM manual.
- Backup Long Coding/Adaptation of 09 , 55 , A5 .
🔎 Initial diagnosis (A5/09/55)
1) DTC reading and freeze-frame
- A5 : calibration status (valid/invalid), Basic Settings requests.
- 55 – Headlight Range : AFS errors, front/rear level sensors.
- 09 – BCM : missing CAN messages, light/Light Assist coding inconsistencies.
2) Check hardware and PR-codes
- Correct camera for VIN; compatible windshield and bracket.
- Clean lens , no film/obstruction in viewing area.
- Level sensors with unbent levers; wiring intact.
🛠️ Static Calibration A5 – Basic Settings
Operating sequence (always check OEM specifications for your MY/Q3):
- Prepare the vehicle : pressures, load, trim; connect the power supply.
- Position the target : set the distance/height/axis according to the manual; lock the template.
- Go to A5 → Basic Settings → start “Camera Calibration” (variable name).
- Follow the on-screen instructions until the status is “Calibrated/OK” .
- Save the report and clear DTCs in A5, then turn the ignition off/on again.
If AFS errors appear in 55, perform headlight calibration first (see linked article below).
🚗 Dynamic calibration (if required)
- Drive on well-marked roads at a constant speed (≈ 60–90 km/h) in good weather.
- Avoid heavy traffic and sudden maneuvers; check the valid status in diagnostics.
🔄 Alignment with 09 (BCM) and 55 (Headlight Range)
Essential controls in 09
- Consistent long coding/adaptation for lights and light assist.
- No CAN U-code; software updates if applicable.
Essential controls in 55
- Basic AFS Settings completed (aiming headlights) and plausible angles.
- Front/rear level sensors working.
Conclude with clearing DTCs in A5/09/55 and ignition cycle; if required, lock-to-lock steering.
🧪 Road test and validation
- Night test : Light Assist activation, high beam cut for oncoming traffic.
- Actuation log (if available): camera status, headlight commands, CAN messages.
- Final checklist : no warning lights, no DTCs, report printed for customer.
🧩 Typical errors & quick fixes
- “Calibration not performed/invalid (A5)” → repeat the static; recheck target and lens positioning.
- “Missing message A5↔55/09” → check coding, gateway and camera power supplies.
- “Level sensor implausible (55)” → check linkages/wiring and redo AFS.
- B2010 / No Basic Setting → complete the Basic Settings in the correct order (A5 → 55).
- Light Assist does not activate → check enabling in 09/A5, correct light lever, compatible windscreen.
🛡 Workshop best practices
- One change at a time , with backup of each ECU.
- Stabilized power supply always connected during procedures.
- Document measurements/target placement with photos; archive reports.
- Updated ADAS training ; meets OEM specifications.
Related article: If the warning light persists, read AUDI Q3 – AFS CALIBRATION (55) AND ALIGNMENT 09/A5 AFTER OBDELEVEN: TECHNICAL GUIDE 2025 .
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I calibrate the A5 camera without official targets?
No: certified targets and measurement references compliant with the manufacturer's specifications are required. Otherwise, the calibration may be invalid or dangerous.
After changing the windshield, the “Adaptive Light” light stays on. Where do I start?
Read DTCs in A5/55/09, check camera bracket and headlight alignment. Perform A5 Basic Settings and, if applicable, dynamic calibration . Then complete AFS calibration (55) .
Is OBDeleven enough?
For basic settings and coding, yes, but the result depends on the ADAS equipment (target/template/measurements). Without it, it's best to take it to a specialized center.
When should I go to an ADAS center?
If certified targets are missing, if the camera does not enter the valid state, or if persistent CAN errors occur between A5/09/55.
