1997 Audi A6 Quattro

INSTRUMENT PANEL 1997 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT Audi - Instrument Panels

INSTRUMENT PANEL

1997 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT Audi - Instrument Panels

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See
AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. Do not apply electrical power to
any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag
system. Air bag may deploy.

Instrument panel consist of Speedometer, odometer, tachometer, coolant and oil temperature gauges, clock, fuel
gauge, voltmeter, warning lights, gear selector position display, outside temperature display, various control
switches and Auto-Check system. Auto-Check system monitors the condition of various vehicle systems. When
a fault occurs in one of these systems, a symbol is displayed in the Auto-Check display window between the
tachometer and speedometer.

AUTO-CHECK SYSTEM

When ignition is on (engine off), the OK indicator in the Auto-Check display area illuminates for a few
seconds. This indicates all monitored systems are okay (this also checks Red and Yellow display bulbs). The
Auto-Check system then continues to monitor these systems when the engine is started and while the vehicle is
driven. System malfunctions are classified into 2 groups: DANGER display and WARNING display.

DANGER Display

When a condition that indicates an urgent need for repairs occurs, a buzzer sounds 3 times and the appropriate
Red symbol is displayed, indicating one of the following conditions exists:

Engine coolant level is low or engine coolant temperature is high (same symbol is used to indicate either
condition)
Engine oil pressure is low.

When more than one malfunction occurs, only one symbol is displayed. Malfunctions are not stored in system
memory.

WARNING Display

When a condition that indicates a less urgent need for repairs occurs, a buzzer sounds once and the appropriate
Yellow symbol is displayed, indicating one of the following conditions exists:

Brakelights are inoperative

Brake pads worn out (indicated by a circle within parenthesis)
Charging system voltage is low or high
Fuel level is low

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Low beam headlight or taillight is inoperative

Windshield washer fluid level is low.

COMPONENT LOCATIONS
COMPONENT LOCATIONS
Component Location
Auto-Check Display On Instrument Cluster, Between Speedometer And
Tachometer
Brake Fluid Level Sensor In Brake Fluid Reservoir
Coolant Level Sensor Top Of Coolant Reservoir Bottle
Coolant Temperature Sensor On Coolant Pipe, Behind Left Cylinder Head
Electronic Thermoswitch On Coolant Pipe, Behind Right Cylinder Head
Engine Speed Sensor Left Side Of Engine
Oil Temperature Sensor On Oil Pump Housing
Oil Pressure Sending Unit Left Side Of Cylinder Block Oil Pressure Switch
.9 Bar Switch Front Right Side Of Engine, Above .3 Bar Switch
.3 Bar Switch Front Right Side Of Engine, Below .9 Bar Switch
Oil Temperature Sensor Front Of Engine, Near Water Pump
Outside Air Temperature Sensor Behind Left Center Of Bumper
Vehicle Speed Sensor Left Side Of Transmission

COMPONENT TESTS

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See
AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. Do not apply electrical power to
any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag
system. Air bag may deploy.

COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE

1. Disconnect 4-wire electronic thermoswitch harness connector, located on coolant pipe behind right
cylinder head. Connect Gauge Tester (VW 1301) between ground and terminal "T" at electronic
thermoswitch harness connector. See Fig. 1 .
2. Set gauge tester dial to 560. Turn ignition on. Note 2 dots, one on each side of cold mark on gauge. If fuel
gauge needle falls within these 2 dots, go to next step. If fuel gauge needle does not fall within these 2
dots, go to step 4).
3. Set gauge tester dial to 58. Note 2 dots, one on each side of mark that is just past halfway mark on gauge.
If fuel gauge needle does not fall within these 2 dots, go to next step. If fuel gauge needle falls within
these 2 dots, gauge is okay.
4. Check wiring. If wiring is okay, check voltage stabilizer. See VOLTAGE STABILIZER. If voltage
stabilizer is okay, replace coolant temperature gauge.

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Fig. 1: Identifying Electronic Thermoswitch Harness Connector & Component Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

COOLANT OVERHEAT WARNING SYMBOL

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1. Disconnect 4-wire electronic thermoswitch harness connector, located on coolant pipe behind right
cylinder head. Using a jumper wire, connect terminal "C" of electronic thermoswitch harness connector to
ground. See Fig. 1 .
2. Start engine. If warning symbol is displayed after about 30 seconds, system is okay. If warning symbol is
not displayed after about 30 seconds, check wiring. If wiring is okay, replace instrument cluster circuit
board.

COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR

Disconnect 4-wire electronic thermoswitch harness connector, located on coolant pipe behind right cylinder
head. Measure resistance between ground and terminal "T" at thermoswitch. See Fig. 1 . Ensure resistance is as
specified with coolant temperature at specified temperature. See COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
RESISTANCE table. If resistance is not as specified, replace electronic thermoswitch.

COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR RESISTANCE

Coolant Temperature °F (°C) Sensor (1) Resistance (Ohms)
122 (50) 400
104 (40) 500
86 (30) 750
68 (20) 1250
50 (10) 1950
32 (0) 3100
(1) Resistance values given are approximate measurement.

EMERGENCY FLASHER SWITCH

NOTE: The emergency flasher relay is now built into emergency flasher switch. Testing
procedures are not available from manufacturer.

FUEL GAUGE

CAUTION: DO NOT allow terminals of fuel gauge sending unit connector to be

pushed back into connector sleeve.

1. Disconnect fuel gauge sending unit harness connector at fuel tank (accessible through luggage
compartment floor). Connect Gauge Tester (VW 1301) to fuel gauge sending unit harness connector
terminals as shown. See Fig. 2 . Set tester dial at 58. Turn ignition on. Fuel gauge should register between
2 dots, one on each side of "F". If gauge registers as specified, go to next step. If gauge does not register
as specified, go to step 3).
2. Turn ignition off. Set tester dial at 550. Turn ignition on. Fuel gauge should register between 2 dots, one
on each side of "E". If gauge does not register as specified, go to next step. If gauge registers as specified,
fuel gauge is okay.
3. Check voltage stabilizer. See VOLTAGE STABILIZER. If voltage stabilizer tests okay, go to next step.
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If voltage stabilizer test defective, replace voltage stabilizer.

4. Check wiring harness between fuel gauge sending unit and instrument cluster. See WIRING
DIAGRAMS. If wiring harness is okay, go to next step. If wiring harness is defective, repair as necessary.
5. Check instrument cluster printed circuit board. If printed circuit board is okay, replace fuel gauge. If
printed circuit board is defective, replace printed circuit board.

Fig. 2: Connecting Gauge Tester To Fuel Gauge Sending Unit Harness Connector
Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

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INDICATOR LIGHT

Brake Fluid Level

Fill master cylinder fluid reservoir. Disconnect harness connector from brake fluid level switch on reservoir.
Using an ohmmeter, check resistance between switch terminals. Continuity should not be present. Remove
reservoir cap. Press down switch pin. Continuity should be present. Replace switch if it does not test as
specified.

Coolant Level

Fill coolant reservoir. Disconnect harness connector from coolant level switch on reservoir. Using an ohmmeter,
check resistance between switch terminals. With reservoir full, continuity should exist. With reservoir empty,
continuity should not exist. Replace switch if it does not test as specified.

Windshield Washer Fluid Level

Fill windshield washer fluid reservoir. Disconnect harness connector from fluid level switch on reservoir. Check
continuity between switch terminals. With reservoir full, continuity should not exist. With reservoir empty,
continuity should exist. Replace switch if it does not test as specified.

OIL PRESSURE SWITCHES

NOTE: Before preforming this test, ensure that engine oil level is correct and engine oil
pressure is within specifications.

.3 Bar Oil Pressure Switch

1. Disconnect Green 26-pin harness connector from back of instrument cluster. Connect Adapter Harness
(VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector and Test Box (VAG 1598A). Check continuity between
ground and terminal No. 5 at test box. If continuity exists, go to next step. If continuity does not exist, go
to step 5).
2. Start engine. Check continuity between ground and terminal No. 5 at test box. If continuity exists, go to
next step. If continuity does not exist, .3 bar oil pressure switch is okay.
3. Disconnect .3 bar oil pressure switch harness connector. Check continuity between ground and terminal
No. 5 at test box. If continuity does not exist, replace .3 bar oil pressure switch. If continuity exists, repair
short to ground in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
4. Disconnect .3 bar oil pressure switch harness connector. Connect a jumper wire between ground and .3
bar oil pressure switch harness connector terminal. Check continuity between ground and terminal No. 5
at test box. If continuity exists, replace .3 bar oil pressure switch. If continuity does not exist, repair open
between oil pressure switch and Green 26-pin harness connector. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
5. Check for open in harness between oil pressure switch and Green 26-pin harness connector. See WIRING
DIAGRAMS. If wiring is okay, replace .3 bar oil pressure switch. If wiring is damaged, repair wiring
harness as necessary.

.9 Bar Oil Pressure Switch

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1. Disconnect Black 14-pin harness connector from back of instrument cluster. Connect Adapter Harness
(VAG 1598/13) to Black 14-pin harness connector and Test Box (VAG 1598A). Check continuity
between ground and terminal No. 22 at test box. If continuity does not exist, go to next step. If continuity
exist, go to step 4).
2. Start engine. Check continuity between ground and terminal No. 22 at test box. If continuity does not
exist, go to next step. If continuity exists, .9 bar oil pressure switch is okay.
3. Disconnect .9 bar oil pressure switch harness connector. Connect a jumper wire between ground and .9
bar oil pressure switch harness connector terminal. Check continuity between ground and terminal No. 22
at test box. If continuity exists, replace .9 bar oil pressure switch. If continuity does not exist, repair open
between oil pressure switch and Black 14-pin harness connector. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
4. Disconnect .9 bar oil pressure switch harness connector.Check continuity between ground and terminal
No. 22 at test box. If continuity exists, repair short to ground in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If
continuity does not exist, replace .9 bar oil pressure switch.

OIL PRESSURE GAUGE

1. Disconnect oil pressure sending unit harness connector from terminal "G" on oil pressure sending unit,
located on left side of cylinder block. Connect Gauge Tester (VW 1301) between harness connector and
ground. See Fig. 3 .
2. Turn ignition on. Set gauge tester dial to specified setting. See OIL PRESSURE GAUGE
SPECIFICATIONS table. If oil pressure indicated by gauge does not match oil pressure specified in
table, check wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If wiring is okay, replace oil pressure gauge.

OIL PRESSURE GAUGE SPECIFICATIONS

Gauge Tester Dial Setting Oil Pressure psi (kg/cm2 )
340 72.5 (5.0)
140 29.0 (2.0)
10 0 (0)

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Fig. 3: Checking Oil Pressure Gauge

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE

1. Disconnect oil temperature sensor harness connector, located on oil pump housing. Connect Gauge Tester
(VW 1301) between harness connector terminal and ground. See Fig. 4 .
2. Turn ignition on. Set gauge tester dial to specified setting. See OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE
SPECIFICATIONS table. If oil temperature indicated by gauge does not match oil temperature specified
in table, check wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If wiring is okay, replace oil temperature gauge.

OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE SPECIFICATIONS

Gauge Tester Dial Setting Oil Temperature °F (°C)
26 338 (170)
110 266 (130)
999 140 (60)
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Fig. 4: Identifying Oil Temperature Gauge Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

RPM SENSOR

1. Turn ignition off. Remove instrument cluster. Disconnect Green 26-pin harness connector. Inspect
connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next step. If connectors
and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
2. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector and Test Box (VAG 1598A).
Connect Green test lead of Tester (VW 1367) to terminal No. 12 of Green 26-pin connector. See Fig. 3 .
Start engine. Engine speed should be indicated on tester. If engine speed is not indicated, check for open
in wiring. If wiring is okay, replace RPM sensor.

VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS)

1. Turn ignition off. Disconnect Red 26-pin harness connector from back of instrument cluster. Inspect
connector terminals for damage and repair as necessary.
2. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector and to Test Box (VAG 1598A).
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Place transmission in Neutral. Raise and support vehicle. Position voltmeter on A/C scale.
3. Turn ignition on. Slowly left front wheel by hand. Measure voltage between terminals No. 8 and 14 at test
box. If voltage is not approximately 4.5 volts, check wiring for open circuit or bad connections. See
WIRING DIAGRAMS. If wiring is okay, replace vehicle speed sensor.

VOLTAGE STABILIZER

NOTE: Ensure battery is fully charged before proceeding.

1. Access back of instrument cluster. Leave all harness connectors connected to instrument cluster. Connect
voltmeter positive lead to voltage stabilizer terminals No. 1 and negative lead to voltage stabilizer
terminals No. 2. See Fig. 5 . Turn ignition on. If battery voltage is present, go to next step. If battery
voltage is not present, check wiring harness, fuses and instrument cluster circuit board for open circuit
and repair as necessary.
2. Connect voltmeter positive lead to voltage stabilizer terminals No. 3 and negative lead to voltage
stabilizer terminals No. 2. With ignition on, voltage should be 9.75-10.25 volts. If voltage is correct,
voltage stabilizer is okay at this time. If voltage is not correct, replace voltage stabilizer.

Fig. 5: Identifying Voltage Stabilizer Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
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SYSTEM TESTS

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See
AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. Do not apply electrical power to
any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag
system. Air bag may deploy.

ANALOG CLOCK INOPERATIVE

1. Remove instrument cluster and disconnect both 26-pin harness connectors. Inspect connectors and
terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next step. If connectors and/or terminals
are damaged, repair as necessary.
2. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect Green 26-pin harness
connector. Connect adapter harness to Test Box (VAG 1598). Check voltage between terminals No. 10
and 14 at test box. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, repair open
in wiring harness. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
3. Disconnect 6-pin side panel connector. Measure voltage between terminals No. 2 and 5. See Fig. 11 . If
battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, replace instrument cluster printed
circuit board.
4. Ensure ignition switch is off. Measure voltage between terminals No. 7 and 8 at back of instrument
cluster. See Fig. 12 . If battery voltage exists, replace analog clock. If battery voltage does not exist,
replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.

AUTO-CHECK SYSTEM

NOTE: Before proceeding with these tests, ensure that battery is fully charged, fuses
are not blown, voltage stabilizer is okay and auto-check system is coded
properly.

1. Check Voltage Supply

Access back of instrument cluster. Disconnect Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect Adapter Harness
(VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector and to back of instrument cluster. Connect adapter
harness to Test Box (VAG 1598). Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Measure voltage between
terminals No. 10 and 11 at test box. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not
exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

2. Check Voltage Supply

Measure voltage between terminals No. 10 and 14 at test box. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If
battery voltage does not exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

3. Check Auto-check System Lighting

Turn parking lights on. Measure voltage between terminals No. 3 and 10. If battery voltage exists, go to

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next step. If battery voltage does not exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

4. Check Fuel Level Sensor Signal

Ensure fuel tank is full. Measure resistance between terminals No. 3 and 10. If resistance is
approximately 283 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is not approximately 283 ohms, check wiring
between Red 26-pin harness connector and fuel level sensor. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If wiring is
okay, replace fuel level sensor.

5. Check Voltage Supply

Turn ignition switch off. Remove adapter harness from Red 26-pin harness connector and instrument
cluster. Connect Red 26-pin harness connector to instrument cluster. Disconnect Green 26-pin harness
connector. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector and to back of
instrument cluster. Connect adapter harness to Test Box (VAG 1598). Turn ignition switch to RUN
position. Measure voltage between terminals No. 7 and 11 at test box. If battery voltage exists, go to nest
step. If battery voltage does not exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

6. Check Brake Fluid Level Signal

Ensure brake fluid reservoir is full. Check continuity between terminals No. 1 and 11 at test box. If
continuity does not exist, ensure an open circuit does not exist and go to next step. If continuity exists,
disconnect brake fluid level switch and check continuity between terminals 1 and 11 again. If continuity
still exists, repair short to ground. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If continuity does not exist, replace brake
fluid level sensor.

NOTE: Ensure brake pads sensors are functioning properly.

7. Check Brake Pad Sensor Signal

Check continuity between terminals No. 6 and 11 at test box. If continuity exists, go to next step. If
continuity does not exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

8. Check Coolant Temperature Sensor Signal

Ensure coolant reservoir is full. Check continuity between terminals No. 3 and 11 at test box. If continuity
does not exist, go to step 11). If continuity exists, disconnect coolant temperature sensor harness
connector and check continuity between terminals No 3 and 11 again. If continuity exists, go to next step.
If continuity does not exist, replace coolant temperature sensor.

9. Check Coolant Temperature Warning Switch Sensor Signal

-Disconnect coolant temperature warning sensor harness connector. Check continuity between terminals
No. 3 and 11 at test box. If continuity exists, go to next step. If continuity does not exist, replace coolant
temperature warning switch sensor.

10. Check Coolant Level Sensor Signal

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Disconnect coolant level sensor harness connector. Check continuity between terminals No. 3 and 11 at
test box. If continuity does not exist, replace coolant level sensor. If continuity exists, repair short to
ground between Green 26-pin harness connector and coolant temperature sensor, coolant temperature
warning switch sensor or coolant level sensor. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

11. Check Engine Speed Sensor Signal

Start engine. Set voltmeter to AC range. Measure voltage between terminals No. 12 and 7. Approximately
0-7 volts can exist, depending on engine speed. If voltage is with in range, go to next step. If voltage is
out of range, repair wiring or replace vehicle speed sensor as necessary.

12. Check .3 Bar Oil Pressure Sensor Signal (Engine Off)

Turn engine off. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Measure resistance between terminals No. 5 and
11 at test box. If continuity exists, go to next step. If continuity does not exist, disconnect .3 Bar oil
pressure switch harness connector and check continuity between terminals No. 5 and 11 again. If
continuity does not exist, replace .3 bar oil pressure switch. If continuity exists, repair short to ground.
See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

13. Check .3 Bar Oil Pressure Sensor Signal (Engine Running)

Start engine. Measure resistance between terminals No. 5 and 11 at test box. If continuity does not exist,
go to next step. If continuity exists, disconnect .3 Bar oil pressure switch harness connector and check
continuity between terminals No. 5 and 11 again. If continuity does not exist, replace .3 bar oil pressure
switch. If continuity exists, repair short to ground. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

14. Check Windshield Washer Fluid Level Sensor Signal

Turn engine off. Ensure windshield washer bottle is full. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Check
continuity between ground and terminal No. 21 at test box. If continuity does not exist, go to next step. If
continuity exists, disconnect windshield washer level sensor harness connector and check continuity
between ground and terminal No. 21 again. If continuity does not exist, replace windshield washer level
sensor. If continuity exists, repair short to ground. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

15. Check .9 Bar Oil Pressure Sensor Signal (Engine Off)

Turn ignition switch off. Remove adapter harness from Green 26-pin harness connector and instrument
cluster. Connect Green 26-pin harness connector to instrument cluster. Disconnect Black 14-pin harness
connector. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/13) to Black 14-pin harness connector and to back of
instrument cluster. Connect adapter harness to Test Box (VAG 1598). Turn ignition switch to RUN
position. Measure continuity between ground and terminal No. 22 at test box. If continuity does not exist,
go to next step. If continuity exists, disconnect .9 bar oil pressure switch harness connector and check
continuity between ground and terminals No. 22 again. If continuity does not exists, replace .9 bar oil
pressure switch. If continuity exists, repair short to ground. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

16. Check .9 Bar Oil Pressure Sensor Signal (Engine Running)

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Start engine. Increase engine speed to above 2800 RPM. Measure continuity between ground and
terminal No. 22 at test box. If continuity exists, go to next step. If continuity does not exist, disconnect oil
pressure switch harness connector. Ground oil pressure switch harness connector terminal and check
continuity between ground and terminal No 22 again. If continuity exists, replace .9 bar oil pressure
switch. If continuity does not exist, repair open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.

17. Check Low Beam And Tail Light Signal

Turn head lights on to low beam. Measure voltage between ground and terminal No. 11 at test box. If less
than 1.5 volts exists, go to next step. If greater than 3.5 volts exists, check for open in wiring. If wiring is
okay, replace faulty bulb or lamp control module.

18. Check Brake Light Signal

Press brake pedal. Measure voltage between ground and terminal No. 12 at test box. If less than 1.5 volts
exists, go to nest step. If greater than 3.5 volts exists, check for open in wiring. If wiring is okay, replace
faulty bulb or lamp control module.

19. Check Vehicle Speed Signal

Turn ignition switch To RUN position. Connect diode test light between ground and terminal No. 9 at test
box. Push vehicle slowly forward and back. If test light flashes, replace auto-check circuit board or
display module. If test light does not flash, check for open in wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If
wiring is okay, replace vehicle speed sensor.

COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE INOPERATIVE

1. Disconnect 4-wire electronic thermoswitch harness connector, located on coolant pipe behind right
cylinder head. Connect Gauge Tester (VW 1301) between ground and terminal "T" at electronic
thermoswitch harness connector. See Fig. 1 . Set gauge tester dial to 58. Turn ignition on. If coolant
temperature gauge does not registers 230°F (110°C), go to next step. If coolant temperature gauge
registers 230°F (110°C), replace electronic thermoswitch.
2. Leave gauge tester connected. Turn ignition off. Remove instrument cluster and disconnect both 26-pin
harness connectors. Inspect connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay,
go to next step. If connectors and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
3. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector and instrument cluster.
Reconnect Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to Test Box (VAG 1598). Measure
resistance between terminals No. 11 and 16 at test box. If resistance is approximately 40 ohms, go to next
step. If resistance is infinite (no continuity), repair open in wiring harness. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
4. Remove adapter harness from instrument cluster. Remove rear instrument cluster cover. Connect adapter
harness to instrument cluster. Measure resistance between terminals No. 1 and 2 at coolant temperature
gauge terminals. See Fig. 6 . If resistance is infinite (no continuity), replace coolant temperature gauge. If
approximately 40 ohms exists, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.

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Fig. 6: Identifying Coolant Temperature Gauge Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

FUEL GAUGE INOPERATIVE

1. Disconnect fuel gauge sending unit harness connector at fuel tank (accessible through luggage
compartment floor). Connect Gauge Tester (VW 1301) to fuel gauge sending unit harness connector
terminals as shown. See Fig. 2 . Set tester dial at 58. Turn ignition on. If gauge does not read FULL, go to
next step. If gauge reads FULL, replace fuel gauge sending unit.
2. Turn ignition off. Leave tester connected to fuel gauge sending unit harness connector. Remove
instrument cluster. Disconnect both instrument cluster 26-pin wiring harness connectors. See Fig. 7 and
Fig. 8 . Inspect connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next
step. If connectors and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
3. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to
instrument cluster and Test Box (VAG 1598). Reconnect Green harness connector to instrument cluster.
Using ohmmeter, measure resistance between terminals No. 3 and 10 at test box. If 40-50 ohms exists,
leave all test equipment connected and go to next step. If 40-50 ohms does not exist, repair open circuit to
fuel gauge sending unit. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
4. Connect voltmeter negative lead to terminal No. 10 at test box. Connect voltmeter positive lead to
instrument cluster fuel gauge terminal No. 1. See Fig. 9 . If less than 4.6 volts exists, replace fuel gauge.
If 4.6 volts or more exists, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.

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Fig. 7: Identifying Green Instrument Cluster 26-Pin Wiring Harness Connector Terminals
Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

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Fig. 8: Identifying Red Instrument Cluster 26-Pin Wiring Harness Connector Terminals
Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

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Fig. 9: Identifying Instrument Cluster Fuel Gauge Terminal

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

FUEL AND TEMPERATURE GAUGES INOPERATIVE

1. Remove instrument cluster. Disconnect both instrument cluster 26-pin harness connectors. See Fig. 7 and
Fig. 8 . Inspect connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next
step. If connectors and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
2. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to
instrument cluster and Test Box (VAG 1598). Reconnect Green 26-pin harness connector. Turn ignition
switch to RUN position. Check voltage between terminals No. 10 and 11 at test box. If battery voltage
exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, repair wiring as necessary. See WIRING
DIAGRAMS.
3. Turn ignition switch off. Test voltage stabilizer. See VOLTAGE STABILIZER under COMPONENT
TESTS. If voltage stabilizer tests okay, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board. If voltage
stabilizer tests defective, replace voltage stabilizer.

OIL PRESSURE GAUGE INOPERATIVE

1. Test oil pressure gauge. See OIL PRESSURE GAUGE under COMPONENT TESTS. If oil pressure
gauge does not test okay, go to next step. If oil gauge test okay, replace oil pressure sending unit.

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INSTRUMENT PANEL 1997 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT Audi - Instrument Panels

2. Turn ignition switch off. Ensure Tester (VW 1301) is still connected between oil pressure gauge sending
unit harness connector and ground. See Fig. 3 . Access back of instrument cluster, leaving harness
connectors attached. Disconnect 4-pin side panel connector. Check resistance between ground and
terminal No. 1 at 4-pin side panel connector. See Fig. 10 . Adjust tester to 10. If resistance is
approximately 10 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is infinite (no continuity), repair open in wire
between instrument cluster and oil pressure sending unit. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
3. Reconnect 4-pin side panel connector. Disconnect 6-pin side panel connector. Turn ignition switch to
RUN position. Check voltage between terminals No. 6 and 5 at 6-pin side terminal connector. See Fig.
11 . If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, replace instrument cluster
printed circuit board.
4. Measure voltage between ground and gauge terminal No. 1. See Fig. 12 . If approximately 8 volts exists,
go to next step. If approximately 8 volts does not exist, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.
5. Turn ignition switch off. Check continuity between gauge terminals No. 2 and 3. See Fig. 12 . If
continuity exists, replace oil pressure gauge. If continuity does not exist, replace instrument cluster
printed circuit board.

Fig. 10: Identifying 4-Pin Side Panel Connector Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
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Fig. 11: Identifying 6-Pin Side Panel Connector Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

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Fig. 12: Identifying Gauge Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE INOPERATIVE

1. Test oil temperature gauge. See OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE under COMPONENT TESTS. If oil
temperature gauge does not test okay, go to next step. If oil temperature gauge tests okay, replace oil
temperature sending unit.
2. Turn ignition switch off. Ensure Tester (VW 1301) is still connected between oil temperature gauge
sending unit harness connector and ground. See Fig. 3 . Access back of instrument cluster, leaving
harness connectors attached. Disconnect 4-pin side panel connector. Check resistance between ground
and terminal No. 2 at 4-pin side panel connector. See Fig. 10 . Adjust tester to 999. If resistance is
approximately 530 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is infinite (no continuity), repair open in wire
between instrument cluster and oil temperature sending unit. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
3. Reconnect 4-pin side panel connector. Disconnect 6-pin side panel connector. Turn ignition switch to
RUN position. Check voltage between terminals No. 6 and 5 at 6-pin side terminal connector. See Fig.
11 . If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, replace instrument cluster
printed circuit board.
4. Measure voltage between ground and gauge terminal No. 1. See Fig. 12 . If approximately 8 volts exists,
go to next step. If approximately 8 volts does not exist, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.
5. Turn ignition switch off. Check continuity between gauge terminals No 2 and 3. See Fig. 12 . If
continuity exists, replace oil temperature gauge. If continuity does not exist, replace instrument cluster

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printed circuit board.

SPEEDOMETER INOPERATIVE

1. Ensure all fuses are okay. Start engine. Using trip computer function switch, select average vehicle speed
display to zero. Drive vehicle. While at average cruise speed, push and hold trip computer RESET button
for more than 2 seconds. If instantaneous vehicle speed is not displayed, go to next step. If instantaneous
vehicle speed is displayed, replace speedometer.
2. Turn ignition off. Remove instrument cluster. Disconnect both instrument cluster 26-pin harness
connectors. Inspect connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next
step. If connectors and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
3. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Red 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to
instrument cluster and Test Box (VAG 1598). Reconnect Green harness connector to instrument cluster.
Place transmission in Neutral. Raise and support vehicle. Position voltmeter on A/C scale. Turn ignition
on. Rotate left front wheel. Check voltage between terminals No. 8 and 14 at test box. If voltage is 1.0-4.5
volts, go to next step. If voltage is not 1.0-4.5 volts, check wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. If wiring
is okay, replace vehicle speed sensor.
4. Connect voltmeter negative lead terminal No. 14 at test box. Connect voltmeter positive lead to VSS
terminal No. 2 on instrument cluster. See Fig. 13 . Rotate left front wheel. If voltmeter reads 1.0-4.5 volts,
replace speedometer. If voltmeter does not read 1.0-4.5 volts, replace instrument cluster printed circuit
board.

Fig. 13: Identifying Instrument Cluster VSS Terminal No. 2

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

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TACHOMETER INOPERATIVE

1. Turn ignition off. Remove instrument cluster. Disconnect both instrument cluster 26-pin harness
connectors. Inspect connectors and terminals for damage. If connectors and terminals are okay, go to next
step. If connectors and/or terminals are damaged, repair as necessary.
2. Connect Adapter Harness (VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to
instrument cluster and Test Box (1598). Connect Engine Tester (VW 1367) to measure engine speed.
Connect Green lead of engine tester to terminal No. 12 of test box. Start engine. If engine speed is
displayed on engine tester, go to next step. If engine speed is not displayed on engine tester, repair open
circuit in wiring harness. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
3. Turn ignition off. Remove adapter harness from instrument cluster. Remove rear instrument cluster cover.
Connect adapter harness to instrument cluster. Measure resistance between terminals No. 1 and 2 and
then between terminals No. 3 and 4. See Fig. 14 . If resistance is infinite (no continuity), replace
tachometer. If 250-350 ohms exists, replace instrument cluster printed circuit board.

Fig. 14: Identifying Instrument Cluster Tachometer Terminals

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CODING

CHECKING AUTO-CHECK CODE

Turn ignition switch off. Press and hold auto-check test button, located between tachometer and temperature
gauge. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. The number 62 should be displayed in auto-check display. If any
other number is displayed, change auto-check code. See AUTO-CHECK CODING PROCEDURE.
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AUTO-CHECK CODING PROCEDURE

1. Access back of instrument cluster. Disconnect Green 26-pin harness connector. Connect Adapter Harness
(VAG 1598/4) to Green 26-pin harness connector. Connect adapter harness to instrument cluster and Test
Box (1598). Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Measure voltage between ground and terminal No. 24
at test box. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not exist, repair open in
wiring. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
2. Adjust coding switch to position No. 2. See Fig. 15 . Turn ignition switch off. Disconnect test equipment.
Connect all harness connectors. Install instrument cluster. Retest auto-check coding.

Fig. 15: Identifying Auto-Check Coding Switch

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

CHECKING INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CODE

NOTE: Blue scan tool connector is not used for this procedure.

Connect Scan Tool (VAG 1551) to data link connector. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Select RAPID
DATA TRANSFER. Push buttons 1 then 7. Ensure scan tool display shows RAPID DATA TRANSFER Q 17-
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. Press "Q" button to confirm. After 5 seconds display will show part number and
control module code. Ensure control module code is 00262. If control module code is not 00262 change control

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module code. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CODING PROCEDURE. Advance through program sequence
with right arrow button to exit checking function.

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CODING PROCEDURE

NOTE: Blue scan tool connector is not used for this procedure.

Connect Scan Tool (VAG 1551) to data link connector. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Select RAPID
DATA TRANSFER. Push buttons 0 then 7. Ensure scan tool display shows RAPID DATA TRANSFER Q 07-
CODE CONTROL MODULE. Press "Q" button to confirm. Input 00262. Press "Q" button to confirm. Press
right arrow button to end coding. Push button 0 then 6 to end. Ensure scan tool display shows RAPID
TRANSFER 06-END OUTPUT. Press "Q" button to confirm and exit procedure. Turn ignition switch off.
Disconnect scan tool.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See
AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. Do not apply electrical power to
any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag
system. Air bag may deploy.

CENTER CONSOLE

Removal & Installation

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove ashtray. Unclip trim plate from rear half of center console and
remove screws. Lift rear half of center console upward and forward off of parking brake lever.
2. Unscrew shift lever knob. Remove screws securing front half of console to floor and pull console
rearward. To install, reverse removal procedure.

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

NOTE: If replacing instrument cluster, replacement unit must be coded after

installation. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CODING.

Removal & Installation

1. Obtain radio security code. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove steering wheel. Insert screwdriver
into hole in bottom of steering column cover and loosen clamp on steering column switch. Pull steering
column switch forward and disconnect harness connectors.
2. Remove steering column switches. Remove instrument cluster screws and tilt cluster backward.
Disconnect all harness connectors. Remove instrument cluster. To install, reverse removal procedure.
Reprogram radio. Tighten steering wheel center nut to 30 ft. lbs. (41 N.m).

WIRING DIAGRAMS
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Fig. 16: Instrument Panel Wiring Diagram

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