Audi A5 Multiple Electrical Failures Points to Clutch Switch

When my 2017 Audi A4 2.0L showed similar electrical issues, the root cause was indeed a faulty switch at the clutch pedal. The symptoms matched exactly, gear display malfunction, cruise control failure, and car starting problems. The clutch switch serves as a safety interlock, preventing the car from starting unless the clutch pedal is fully depressed. A failing switch can trigger multiple electrical faults as these systems are interconnected through the vehicle control modules. The repair involved replacing the entire clutch pedal position sensor assembly. This was a serious electrical fault that could have led to complete vehicle immobilization if left unaddressed. The connector pins showed corrosion, and the wiring harness needed cleaning and reseating. Key diagnostic steps included: Testing voltage at the switch connector, Checking the wiring harness for damage, Verifying ground connections, Scanning for communication errors between modules Many technicians might focus on individual symptoms rather than recognizing the pattern of a failing clutch switch. This can lead to unnecessary parts replacement and diagnostic time. Based on your symptoms, strongly recommend having the clutch safety switch circuit thoroughly tested before exploring other possibilities.

Thanks for sharing this, I had almost identical problems with my A5 last winter. The car stalling and starting issues turned out to be exactly what you described with the clutch pedal sensor. The safety mechanism was completely shot and caused all sorts of electrical faults. Just curious, can you remember roughly what the repair ended up costing you? Have you had any recurring issues since getting it fixed? My fix has held up well but the labor costs were pretty steep.

Glad to confirm the clutch pedal switch was indeed the culprit. After getting it repaired at the shop, they found a loose cable connection that was causing the safety switch malfunction. The total repair came to 95 Euro, which included diagnosing and fixing the faulty switch connection. The relatively low cost was because they only needed to repair the cable and plug connection rather than replace the entire clutch safety switch assembly. Since the fix, all systems have worked perfectly, gear selector display is clear, cruise control functions normally, and car starting is reliable again. This kind of repair outcome really shows how interconnected modern vehicle electronics are. A single faulty switch in the clutch pedal safety system can trigger multiple electrical issues across different systems. Fortunately, once properly diagnosed, the fix can be straightforward and lasting. No recurring problems in the 6 months since the repair. The gear display, cruise control, and starting system have all remained fully functional.

Thanks to everyone who replied. After taking the car to a different mechanic, they quickly spotted the issue with the clutch safety switch. The symptoms were causing electrical faults across multiple systems. The repair took about 2 hours. They found corroded wiring near the clutch pedal assembly that was disrupting the safety switch signals. Total cost came to 180 Euro including parts and labor. Money well spent considering the car stalling issues could have left me stranded. Everything works perfectly now, gear display is back, cruise control functions normally, and the car starts reliably. No more error codes or warning lights. Really glad I got a second opinion and found a mechanic who knew to check the clutch switch first rather than replacing unusual parts.