DRC Repair or Coilovers?

[NME]

Ok, so as the title suggests I am interested to know what the experience is like switching to something like KW V3 coilovers.

Now before everybody who currently runs coilovers says that I should just get them done, I wanted to convey my personal preference for the ride.

I love the softness of comfort which is how 90% of my driving is done, and I then love the option to hit the switch and firm it up for some spirited driving when suitable.

I've had previous cars where the ARBs were replaced and the ride was too hard ALL of the time, which began to wear on me. Maybe I'm getting old, but the option to switch is nice.

That being said, if I can spend money improving the cars handling and reliability (I.e. No more DRC worries "is this really fixed now? Or for how long?), then I'm interested.

If I can adjust the ride once every 2 weeks or so, then this wouldn't be so bad, or if I could set it up so that it is still comfortable, and near to a mid comfort to auto setting as it is now with DRC that would be great.

Can anyone give any feedback or advice about the day to day ride experience about coilovers of the B8?

How like Comfort DRC can you set them?

And if not at all like Comfort, how comfortable can they be made to feel?

I think I'm just terrified of another experience like my super stiff ARB replacement gave me on stock dampers and lowered springs!

All info is appreciated.

[johnnydog]

If you've got issues with your drc (knocking or leaking), I personally would get the issues repaired under warranty, as DRC shock replacement is a current issue with documented repairs / replacements, and then keep it as standard.
If you've no problem with the DRC, and if you don't mind spending a shed loads of money.....for what real gain? From your post, you obviously like the DRC and the ability to vary it at the touch of a button, and keeping it, your bank balance will stay healthier.
On a personal note, I prefer keeping cars standard, so I wouldn't even consider it.

[NME]

I think the route you suggest is my preferred option, but my car is out of warranty (the standard 3 years), and I'm just weighing up the options should Audi be unhelpful regarding the issue.

I just want the car to be like it was before the dreaded noises started, but not if I have to pay £££££ above and well beyond the price of some excellent aftermarket replacements.

[johnnydog]

With the problems with the DRC on the B7 model, if I remember correctly, Audi were replacing the DRC components as warranty even on cars that were well over 3 years old - upto 5 iirc.
I've said it before, if the car was bought through Audi, and your are a good current or even possible previous customer for servicing work etc., and they value your future custom, then I would definitely push for it being done 'free gratis' as it is a well documented issue which Audi have accepted. Or at very least, a large goodwill contribution if not the whole cost.

[DeanoC]

The revised shocks seem to be holding up ok for those that have had them swapped. I would not like to be without the control.

[Surrey Sam]

Agreed, I'd choose the DRC setup over coilovers, anyday of the week.

[johnnydog]

I think the route you suggest is my preferred option, but my car is out of warranty (the standard 3 years), and I'm just weighing up the options should Audi be unhelpful regarding the issue.

I just want the car to be like it was before the dreaded noises started, but not if I have to pay £££££ above and well beyond the price of some excellent aftermarket replacements.

A fellow forum member on here has just informed me that after having his car checked by Audi for the dreaded DRC knock, they have informed him that his 2012 car is eligible for the uprated shocks. This just confirms that dispite being well out the 3 year warranty period, DRC shocks are hopefully still being replaced under warranty.

[Surrey Sam]

That's good news, have they maintained full Audi service history as that usually helps.

[NME]

That is very good news, I would love to keep it with the DRC.

It also has FASH, so hopefully they will agree!