Troubleshooting “Wrong Mounting Position” Error After B8.5 Front Camera Calibration with VCDS

Many Audi and Volkswagen owners utilize VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) for various vehicle diagnostics and adjustments, including calibrating advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like front cameras. These front cameras, often mounted near the rearview mirror or behind the windshield, are crucial for features such as lane assist, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. When working on a B8.5 model (commonly referring to Audi A4, S4, A5, S5, RS5 models from around 2013-2016), you might encounter challenges during or after a front camera calibration process.

One common issue reported by VCDS users is the error code: 0663 – Control Module For Camera C110A 76 [008] – Wrong mounting position [Initial_calibration_out_of_range]. This error typically arises after attempting to perform a static or dynamic calibration of the front camera using VCDS.

This error message indicates that the system believes the front camera is not correctly positioned or mounted. This can stem from a variety of factors, not necessarily a physically misaligned B8.5 Front Camera Mount, but rather issues that the system interprets as such.

To understand and troubleshoot this error, let’s break down the typical VCDS procedure and explore potential causes and solutions.

The user’s original steps involved:

1. File Copying (Potentially for Label Files): This step usually involves updating VCDS label files for better component identification. While important for general VCDS functionality, it’s less likely to directly cause a “wrong mounting position” error unless it somehow corrupted the VCDS software or data.

2. Accessing Front Sensor Driver Assist Module (A5) and Measuring Values: This is a standard diagnostic procedure to read live data from the front camera module. The provided log data shows various sensor readings, temperatures, and calibration statuses. Notably, “Dynamic calibration: status” is “Passive: no values stored,” and “Dynamic calibration: details-Status” is “Calibration not yet performed.” “Perception module for light assistant-Status” shows “ERROR.” These readings suggest a calibration issue is indeed present.

3. Clearing Fault Codes: This is a standard troubleshooting step after making adjustments or attempting calibrations.

4. Security Access and Adaptation: Security access (code 20103) is required for making changes to adaptation channels. The adaptation steps in the log involve adjusting “Body height wheel house edge” values and “Distance to calibration field.” These steps seem related to vehicle leveling and setting up the calibration environment, rather than directly adjusting the b8.5 front camera mount itself.

5. Basic Settings – Static Calibration: This is the crucial step where the static calibration (customer service) is initiated. The user reports that it says “calibration not correct or something like that,” and ultimately leads to the “Wrong mounting position” error (0663 – C110A 76).

Possible Causes for “Wrong Mounting Position” Error (C110A 76) after B8.5 Front Camera Calibration:

• Incorrect Calibration Procedure: While the user followed steps, there might be specific nuances for the B8.5 platform or front camera type not explicitly mentioned. Double-checking the Ross-Tech VCDS documentation or Audi service manuals for the exact B8.5 front camera calibration procedure is crucial.
• Calibration Environment Issues: Static calibration often requires a specific target or calibration chart positioned at a precise distance and alignment to the vehicle. If the distance to the calibration field (set to 1500 in the log) or the target itself is incorrect, it can lead to calibration failure and potentially this “wrong mounting position” error.
• Vehicle Leveling: Precise vehicle leveling is essential for accurate front camera calibration. The adaptation steps for “Body height wheel house edge” suggest this is considered. If the vehicle is not perfectly level, the camera’s perspective will be skewed, and calibration may fail, triggering the error.
• Faulty Front Camera Mount or Physical Misalignment: Although less likely if the camera hasn’t been physically removed or damaged, there’s a possibility of a loose b8.5 front camera mount or subtle misalignment. Inspecting the physical mount for any looseness or damage might be necessary. However, the error is more likely software/calibration related first.
• Software or Module Glitch: In rare cases, a temporary software glitch in the front camera control module itself could cause calibration issues. Trying the calibration procedure again after a vehicle restart might resolve such temporary glitches.
• Underlying Hardware Issue: While “wrong mounting position” suggests alignment, an underlying hardware issue with the front camera module itself cannot be completely ruled out. If all calibration steps are meticulously followed and the error persists, further diagnostic checks of the camera module might be needed.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Verify VCDS Procedure: Consult official VCDS documentation from Ross-Tech and, if possible, Audi repair manuals specifically for B8.5 front camera calibration. Ensure every step is followed precisely.
2. Check Calibration Environment: Double-check the required distance to the calibration target (if using one), the target’s alignment, and ensure the vehicle is on a perfectly level surface. Re-measure the 1500mm distance.
3. Re-level Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is correctly leveled. Use a bubble level on key points of the vehicle’s chassis to verify. The “Body height wheel house edge” adaptation values might need to be checked and potentially readjusted if there were issues with initial measurements.
4. Inspect Front Camera Mount: Visually inspect the b8.5 front camera mount for any signs of damage, looseness, or improper installation. Gently try to wiggle the camera (if accessible and safe to do so) to check for play in the mount.
5. Retry Calibration Procedure: After verifying the above points, retry the static calibration procedure in VCDS. Ensure ignition is ON, Start/Stop is deactivated (as mentioned in the original steps), and all steps are followed meticulously.
6. Check for Other Fault Codes: Perform a full fault code scan across all modules in the vehicle. Are there any other fault codes related to ADAS or the front camera system that might provide further clues?
7. Consider Dynamic Calibration: If static calibration consistently fails, explore if dynamic calibration is an option for the B8.5 model and front camera. Dynamic calibration usually involves driving the vehicle under specific conditions to allow the system to self-calibrate. (Consult VCDS documentation for dynamic calibration procedures if applicable).
8. Seek Professional Help: If all troubleshooting steps fail and the “wrong mounting position” error persists, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a qualified Audi technician or a workshop specializing in ADAS calibration. They have specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve complex calibration issues.

Conclusion:

The “Wrong mounting position” error after B8.5 front camera calibration with VCDS is often related to the calibration process itself or the environment, rather than a physically incorrect b8.5 front camera mount. Meticulously reviewing the VCDS procedure, ensuring a proper calibration environment, and verifying vehicle leveling are crucial first steps. Systematic troubleshooting, as outlined above, should help identify and resolve the root cause of the error. If the issue remains unresolved, professional diagnostic assistance is recommended to ensure the ADAS system functions correctly and safely.