A6-C5 - (Typ 4B, 1997–2004) 1997–2004

Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

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Old 10-12-2008, 07:31 AM
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Angry Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

I have a 2001 Allroad where the pixels are almost gone making it impossible the systems check when the car is started.I believe ths could be a safety issue if there is an issue with your braking system but you can not read the warning.

Long story short is I contacted Audi Canada to see if they could help.They said the car was out of warranty and there were no existing recalls so basically I am SOL.So I explained my concern over not being able to read a warning of a safety device such as your brakes but this did not have any impact or raise any concern with the person I was talking to.

This is a known problem but Audi doesnt take any responsibilty or offer any help to resolve the issue.

I heard exactly what I was expecting to hear from the customer service of Audi Canada!!!

It is approx. $1200 to buy a repaired instrument cluster plus taxes and labor.They also want your old one as they will repair it and sell it to someone else.

I also have a 2001 A6 2.7T that is starting to lose pixels so if want to fix both cars I am looking at $ 3000 minmum..........BRUTAL !!!!

Ok nuff said
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Old 10-12-2008, 10:36 AM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

Among other models, the B5 and C5 Clusters had display issues that Audi won't resolve unless under warranty. One of mine was replaced under warranty for same reason.

Have a look around for non dealer alternatives

Digital Tuning Service GmbH - The biggest service provider worldwide in the pixel error and speedo repair field.
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Old 10-12-2008, 02:00 PM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

I've read in one of the American Audi forum (I forgot which one, I think I googled it last time) someone was trying to start some type of law suit to pressure Audi to have a recall on this. He was asking for people to sign up so he can get signatures. Probably didn't go very far, I have not receive any recall notice from Audi. My Cluster works good when cold, generally fades on the top portion when it's warm. When it's too cold (-10C) it'll have extra pixels light up but will go away after a while. I heard many people are not happy with the center screen.
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Old 10-13-2008, 01:38 AM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

yeah mine is facked, i hate it
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Old 10-13-2008, 09:30 AM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

It s a design flaw that Audi doesnt want to deal with.......I tried to explain the safety implications but they didnt care as it the car doesnt have warranty so the cost would be theirs.

All I can say is if you have an older Audi with CPO and you see any siigns of pixel failure make sure you take it in and get it fixed as it only gets worse.

Thanks K04-S4 for the link for repairs!!
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Old 11-03-2008, 06:59 PM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

As far as i understand, there is a ribbon cable that feeds the lcd, it becomes loose after a while and you start to loose pixels (is'nt loose and loose spelt different?) A foam spacer behind the connector to squeeze the cable back on the board should do the trick. I need to do mine soon, have heard of many successful repairs with ths method - best of all its free!
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Old 11-03-2008, 10:26 PM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

any more info on this?
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Old 11-03-2008, 10:45 PM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

yes ive heard of the ribbon cable thing what seems to happen is when its hot the glue that holds that ribbon cable in place starts to get soft and you start to get dead pixels i'll try to find the writeup for this method i know it has worked for a bunch of people. Mine isnt bad yet the top portion of screen fades and thats about it so i havent tried doing this yet.
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Old 11-04-2008, 10:15 PM
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Default Re: Failing Instrument Cluster (Pixels)

hopefully it's as straight forward as it sounds
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