Although the instrument cluster is a known failure on the A3, along with common symptoms, there are some fewer common symptoms that are over looked. The most common symptom is an intermittent or complete loss of instruments, that also prevents the engine from starting due to the immobiliser system running through the instrument cluster.
Less common symptoms are; warning lights remaining on even when the key is removed, flickering instrument lights and resetting of the date, time or trip mileage. The problem is with the original manufacture of the instrument cluster.
Unfortunately, this type of failure is seen at a very high rate and is due to the internal component failures, which also causes firmware corruption. Due to the failure of the original components, it causes a chain effect until the internal firmware becomes completely corrupt and inoperable. To make things worse it might not be possible to communicate with the instrument cluster using diagnostic equipment because the cluster will not respond. But the fault codes will be stored in other vehicle systems that have complain of not being able to communicate with the immobiliser or instrument cluster. You will find stored fault codes for internal control unit malfunction, if you are able to gain communication with the cluster.
Choosing to replace the instrument cluster from the manufacturer will be very expensive, as well as require the car to be coded to the immobiliser system which will result in additional labour over and above just removal and refitting.
Audi A3 Instrument Cluster Common Failure symptoms:
- Failure of all instruments
- Engine will not start
- Warning light remain on even with key removed
- Unable to communicate with the instrument cluster
Audi A3 Cluster Repair
Having your original Audi A3 instrument cluster repaired is the best and cost-effective solution. At Essex Recons we repair instrument clusters with high standard components while retaining all original immobiliser programming. By doing this it ensures the rebuild lasts and there is no need for programming once you receive the instrument cluster back.
To book in your Audi A3 Cluster repair with our workshop simply click the “Get Your Unit Rebuilt Button” above. If you would like to talk to a human or need any advice feel free to give us a call on 01708 206343 Monday-Friday 9.00-5.00 Saturday 9.30 – 2.30
