Although the instrument cluster is a known failure on the A3, along with common symptoms, there are some less common symptoms that are overlooked. The most common symptom is an intermittent or complete loss of instruments, which 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 lies with the original manufacture of the instrument cluster.

Unfortunately, this type of failure is seen at a very high rate and is due to internal component failures, which also cause 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. However, the fault codes will be stored in other vehicle systems that have complained 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 lights remain on even with the key removed Unable to communicate with the instrument cluster

Audi A3 Instrument Cluster Common Failure symptoms:

• Failure of all instruments
• Engine will not start
• Warning lights remain on even with the 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 most 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.