Audi’s Electrical System Failure: Causes And Prevention

When it comes to electrical problems, Audi’s advanced electrical components succumb to system failures when damaged or faulty. Knowing why your Audi is having electrical system problems is the first step towards remedying current issues and preventing future malfunctions.

You may wonder how these problems happen. It can get complicated depending on which component is damaged or faulty.

Common Reasons for Electrical Failure

The most common causes of electrical system failures in your Audi include:

a blown fuse
a stuck relay switch
faulty ignition coil components
a dead or corroded battery
a failed alternator

Each of these have their own share of effects on your Audi’s regular operations. You could also save yourself some time by letting a trained technician at our shop identify what the cause of your electrical system failure is. Our experts deal with problems European automobiles suffer from on a day-to-day basis, so feel confident bringing in your Audi for us to take a look.

A blown fuse, for example, can result from things like power window failure. A break in the electrical circuits or normal wear on your window’s motor will usually be the cause of this. Excessive electrical flow caused by broken electrical motors in your Audi’s circuitry can blow out your Audi’s fuses and result in total electrical system failure. Faulty wiring is also a frequent cause of fuses blowing out in your Audi.

A stuck relay switch, although less likely to happen in comparison to the other causes on the list, can still occur and cause your Audi to suffer from restricted electrical flow. One of the relay switches is stuck in one position. A stuck relay can also drain your Audi’s battery faster than it would normally last.

Faulty ignition coil components will affect more than just your Audi’s electrical system. Your Audi’s ignition coil is responsible for powering the spark plugs that ignite your combustion engine. If a coil burns or shorts, you’re destined to be left with an Audi that won’t start. The engine warning light may turn on as well if the faulty coil causes a misfire on startup. Faulty ignition coils are a result of heat damage or electrical overload throughout the coil components.

A dead or corroded battery is the most common cause of electrical problems in Audis. A dead battery will not allow your Audi’s engine to start without a jump start. This will be the first thing a technician checks for if your Audi suffers from electrical system malfunctions.

Another issue related to your Audi’s battery may be corroded terminal connections. Some Audi models (like the A6) lack circuit protection on their battery systems and can result in erosion over time. It’s best you leave a problem like this for our trained technicians to solve rather than repairing it yourself.

A failed alternator will develop problems with starting your Audi’s engine, the dimming or flickering of brake lights and headlights, as well as electrical accessories controlled from within the cabin. Alternator failure is related to issues with one or all of the causes listed above depending on your Audi’s condition. Causes for alternator failure include problems with your Audi’s serpentine belt, bad alternator bushings, or worn out alternator bearings.

Preventing Electrical System Problems in Your Audi

If you notice any of these symptoms, the first solution should be to bring your Audi into our shop to be serviced by our expert mechanics. There are steps you can take to prevent problems from developing or worsening:

Keep containers with liquids covered or away from the Multi-Media Interface (MMI) module. Unfortunately, the MMIs on most Audi models are located underneath the center cup holders. This makes it easy for seemingly harmless spills to leak through and cause your electronic user interface to malfunction.
Always bring your Audi into our shop when you notice a check engine or battery charge warning light. Never try to diagnose the problem yourself. Audi’s are highly advanced automobiles that require experts to identify and solve the issue. Attempting to repair it yourself without the proper knowledge can lead to even more problems.
Routinely bringing in your car for service and asking about the electrical system. Audi batteries should last around two years, unless you get unlucky with a shoddy battery from the factory. Have your battery tested at our shop if you think something is wrong with it.
Trust your gut. If your car is making strange noises or acting abnormal then it’s time to let an expert run a diagnostic.

Hayes European is Here to Solve Your Audi’s Problems

With over 60 years of combined automotive experience, Hayes European is Santa Cruz’s trusted European auto repair and service Shop. Bring your Audi in for an inspection today if you notice any symptoms of electrical system failure. We service customers in Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel, and Capitola with the best value across all of California.