2012-2018 Audi A6, A7, S6, S7 & RS7 Front Camera Failure and ADAS Warnings
This guide explains the common failures of the front-facing ADAS camera in the Audi A6, A7, S6, S7, and RS7, why calibration is critical, and how to safely buy a used replacement.
- A replacement camera, whether new or used, absolutely requires professional calibration with specialized equipment to function.
- Common symptoms are dashboard warnings like "Audi pre sense: currently limited" and "Active lane assist: system fault".
- Verify the OEM part number on your old camera exactly before buying a used one, as there are many incompatible revisions.
- The high cost of this repair is driven by the calibration procedure, not just the part itself.
Symptoms of a Failing Front Camera
When the front ADAS camera on a 2012-2018 Audi A6, A7, S6, S7, or RS7 begins to fail, you will typically see warning messages on your instrument cluster display. The camera itself often fails internally due to heat and component aging. These warnings disable the associated safety features.
- "Audi pre sense: currently limited" or "unavailable": This is one of the most common messages. It indicates the automatic emergency braking and collision warning system is not functioning.
- "ACC and Audi braking guard: not available": This message means your Adaptive Cruise Control will not work.
- "Audi active lane assist: system fault" or "malfunction": This warning appears when the camera can no longer reliably detect lane markings to help with steering.
- Cruise control disabled: In some cases, the entire cruise control system will be inoperative.
These symptoms can be intermittent at first, sometimes clearing after restarting the car, but they typically become more persistent over time. A diagnostic scan with a tool like VCDS will often reveal specific fault codes, such as C110702 (Video line for image processing signal error), 0161 (Video Cable for Image Processing), B201000 (no basic settings), or C110A76 (camera control module Incorrect installation location).
Pro Tip: Before assuming the camera is bad, ensure the windshield area in front of the camera is perfectly clean. Dirt, debris, or even a poorly installed aftermarket windshield can block the camera's view and trigger faults.
Buying a Used Video Camera: What to Check
Purchasing a used OEM video camera is a smart way to save a significant amount of money over a new dealer part. However, due to the sensitive nature of this component, there are critical factors to consider.
1. Verify the Part Number EXACTLY
The most important step is to match the OEM part number on your original camera. Audi used several revisions, indicated by the letter at the end of the part number (e.g., 4G0907568J, 4G0907568M). While some may be interchangeable, using the exact same part number is the safest way to ensure compatibility with your vehicle's software and systems. Do not rely on visual appearance alone.
2. Physical Inspection
When you receive the used camera, inspect it carefully:
- Lens Condition: Check the lens for any deep scratches, hazing, or cloudiness that could obstruct its view.
- Connectors: Ensure the electrical connector pins are straight, clean, and free of any corrosion.
- Housing: Look for cracks or damage to the plastic housing, which could indicate it was removed forcefully or came from a vehicle in a major collision.
3. Ask About the Donor Vehicle
If possible, get the history of the vehicle the part came from. A camera from a low-mileage vehicle that was not in a front-end collision is always a better choice. This reduces the risk of hidden damage.
4. The Calibration Requirement
This is non-negotiable. A used camera, even if it's a perfectly functional OEM part, will not work correctly when installed in your car until it is professionally calibrated. Calibration is a process that tells the camera its exact position and orientation relative to the vehicle's chassis. This ensures it can accurately judge distances and angles for the ADAS features to work safely. This process requires specialized equipment, including a target board and diagnostic software, and is not a typical DIY job.
Warning: The initial prompt for this article mentioned different part numbers for left and right side sensors. This is incorrect for the main forward-facing video camera discussed here, which is a single unit. That warning likely refers to other sensors, such as the blind spot monitoring radar modules (which use similar part numbers like 4G0907568J but are for "Lane change assist"). Always confirm you are buying the correct part for the system you are repairing.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
While there are no major recalls specifically for camera failure on the 2012-2018 A6/A7 platform, there are related service bulletins. TSB 2060826 addresses fault codes B201000 and C110A76 🎬 See how to fix the B201000 basic setting fault, providing a diagnostic procedure for technicians before replacing parts, emphasizing the importance of checking for correct windshield installation and ensuring the single silicone pad between the camera and windshield is clean and correctly installed. Other TSBs note that issues with the capacitive steering wheel can sometimes trigger lane assist malfunction warnings, which may be misdiagnosed as a camera fault.
Replacement and Installation
Physically replacing the camera is relatively simple. It is located in the housing behind the interior rearview mirror and can typically be accessed by carefully removing plastic trim pieces. However, the overall difficulty of the job is high due to the mandatory calibration.
- Installation Difficulty: 4/5
- Reason: While the physical swap is easy (1/5), the required ADAS calibration is a complex procedure (5/5) requiring specialized tools that most DIY mechanics and even many independent shops do not have.
- DIY Feasible: No, unless you have access to professional ADAS calibration equipment and software (e.g., ODIS, Bosch DAS 3000 🎬 Watch: Audi front camera calibration using Bosch DAS 3000).
The calibration process involves placing a specific target board at a precise distance and height in front of the vehicle and running a routine through a diagnostic tool. This must be done on a level surface with the vehicle at the correct ride height. Any wheel alignment changes also require camera recalibration.
Cost Comparison
The high cost of a new camera and the required calibration make a used OEM part a very attractive option.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Camera | $1,500 - $2,900 |
| New Aftermarket Camera | Not commonly available |
| Used OEM Camera | $150 - $400 |
| Shop Labor (Installation & Calibration) | $500 - $1,200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car with a faulty front camera?
Yes, the car is safe to drive. However, all of the associated safety features like Pre Sense, Active Lane Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control will be disabled. You will need to be more vigilant as the vehicle's safety net will not be active.
Do I need to get the camera calibrated after a windshield replacement?
Yes, absolutely. Removing and reinstalling the camera during a windshield replacement changes its position slightly, which requires a full recalibration to ensure the safety systems work correctly. Many glass shops now offer this service.
My lane assist warning came on, but the dealer says I need a new steering wheel, not a camera. Why?
Some of these Audi models use a "capacitive steering wheel" to detect if your hands are on the wheel. A failure in this system can trigger a "Lane Assist Malfunction" warning that is unrelated to the camera itself. A proper diagnostic scan is needed to differentiate the two issues.
Can a simple wheel alignment really require a camera calibration?
Yes. The camera's calculations are based on the vehicle's thrust line, which is determined by the wheel alignment. Changing the alignment means the camera's stored position is no longer accurate, and it must be recalibrated to the new alignment settings for the ADAS systems to function safely.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4G0907568 4G0907568D 4G0907568F 4G0907568H 4G0907568J 4G0907568M
Forward-facing video camera for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Mounts to the windshield behind the rearview mirror.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi A6:
- Audi A7:
- Audi RS7:
- Audi S6:
- Audi S7:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Front Camera
- Buying a Used Video Camera: What to Check
- 1. Verify the Part Number EXACTLY
- 2. Physical Inspection
- 3. Ask About the Donor Vehicle
- 4. The Calibration Requirement
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Replacement and Installation
- Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off