Audi is known for pushing the limits of current technology in a bid to pave the way for the future, from mechanical performance to the innovative technologies taking over the driver’s seat. The brand has constructed a persona based on testing the limits it sets itself, altering public perception as to what is “normal” in vehicles.
The digital dashboard is one of these technologies. It debuted a few years ago by Audi in a bid to modernize the standard dashboard. However, like all new technologies, there are some bugs to be worked out. For the consumer, one needs to know where to go for help for the occasional failure.
If you suspect your Audi’s digital dashboard is experiencing mechanical or electrical failure, it’s essential to bring the car to a mechanic as quickly as possible to get you safely back on the road.
The Dashboard Itself
The Audi digital dashboard is designed to fully replace the traditional analog display that’s still standard in many vehicles. In addition to displaying speed, temperature, and fuel gauges, the digital dashboard can be customized to add a variety of functions for the ease and safety of the driver. Among such customizations include accepting phone calls, screening and changing musical selections, and mapping out destinations.
Symptoms of Audi Digital Dashboard Failure
Blown Bulbs
Blown bulbs don’t necessarily present an immediate safety issue in and of themselves, but if a blown bulb means that your digital dashboard is not displaying important information, that is a huge problem. If you have a blown bulb in your Audi’s digital display that results in ill-lit or no-lit speed or temperature displays, or if your warning lights can’t turn on, it’s crucial to replace your bulb as quickly as possible to ensure your safety.
Blown Fuses
Blown fuses are one of the most common mechanical issues when it comes to Audi’s digital dashboard woes. While those with a solid mechanical foundation can replace their fuses at home, this runs the risk of potentially damaging, unplugging, or otherwise inactivating other components of the digital dashboard or electrical system. Signs of blown fuses include:
- dim, dull, or blank screens
- flashing, fuzzy, or glitching displays
- partial or complete failure to light up
Instrument Cluster Failure
The instrument cluster of your Audi’s digital dashboard is responsible for governing the dashboard icons on display. When the instrument cluster fails, you may notice some icons, such as your warning and maintenance light, have disappeared. It is possible that you may be unable to tell how fast you’re barreling down the highway. As such, even a partial instrument cluster failure is a serious issue that needs to be addressed by a mechanic immediately.
Pixelation Issues
Pixelation issues in Audis are uncommon but possible. Usually, these manifest as missing pixels throughout the display or sometimes horizontal or vertical lines crossing the dashboard. When pixelation issues arise, the only fix is to have a certified mechanic reset or replace the entire display.
Preventing Dashboard Display Issues in Your Audi
There is no absolute guarantee that your Audi will never experience issues with the digital dashboard display due to the relatively young age of the technology and the complexity of the displays themselves. However, it’s possible to take steps to ensure your display functions at peak resolution and capability as long as possible.
The easiest way to do this is to routinely update the digital dashboard as system upgrades and digital patches are sent out by Audi. While this may require a quick trip and a few bucks spent at the mechanic, it’s cheaper and quicker than having to completely replace your display.
Additionally, during other mechanical care, such as oil changes and tire rotations, ask your mechanic to complete a thorough systems check. If there are software updates to be installed, your mechanic should be able to take care of that, too. This may not address any electrical concerns that crop up between maintenance visits, but it will keep the technology behind the dashboard functioning as long and as well as possible.
DART Auto Will Service your Audi
If you suspect or are experiencing issues with 
your Audi’s digital dashboard system, bring your car to DART Auto in Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, or Denver, CO. At DART Auto, we provide better services at better prices than many dealerships but without the upsell and the upset. Our full-service Audi operation includes digital dashboard maintenance, parts repair and replacement, as well as a wide range of engine services and scheduled and preventative maintenance.
