Audi A5 Steering Wheel Controls Dead, Fix Guide

Had a similar connectivity problem with my 2017 Audi A4. The multifunction controls on the steering wheel stopped responding completely, and the malfunction indicator showed up in the diagnostics. Based on some experience with electrical issues, I first suspected a loose connection, but it turned out to be more complex. The workshop diagnosed a faulty cable connection in the steering column that was causing intermittent signal loss to the steering wheel controls. The repair involved partially dismounting the steering wheel to access and replace the defective wiring harness. Total cost was 95 Euro, including diagnostic and labor. The sensor issue was resolved in about 2 hours. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Have you noticed any warning lights on the dashboard? Did the problem appear suddenly or gradually? Are there any other electrical issues in the car? Have you had any recent work done on the steering system? This information would help determine if youre dealing with the same root cause or if its potentially a different steering wheel control module issue.

Current mileage: 66697 KM Last service: Regular maintenance completed 2 months ago The control module signals issue has gotten worse since my initial post. After running a second diagnostic scan, the error codes now point specifically to a failure in the steering column wiring. The connectivity problem seems to affect all steering controls consistently now, not just intermittently like before. The workshop quoted 450 Euro for a complete repair, mentioning they need to replace both the wiring harness and potentially the multifunction steering control unit itself. Just wanted to know if this pricing sounds reasonable before proceeding with the work. To answer the previous questions: No warning lights except the steering system fault, Problem appeared suddenly after a cold start, No other electrical issues noticed, No recent steering system work performed

Thanks for providing those details. Your symptoms match exactly what I experienced with my A4, it started similarly with the sudden control module failure during a cold start. While my initial repair with just the wiring harness seemed successful, the problem returned after a few weeks. The complete fix ultimately required replacing both the wiring harness and the multifunction steering control unit, just like your workshop is suggesting. The 450 Euro quote actually sounds quite reasonable for the full repair scope. For comparison, my total cost ended up around 520 Euro when I had both components replaced. The steering controls have worked flawlessly since then. Some key points about the repair: The combined replacement of both parts offers a more reliable long-term solution, Labor time typically runs 3-4 hours due to the complex steering column access, Testing and recalibration of the new control module is included in most cases Given your mileage and the complete failure of the steering controls, replacing both components makes technical sense. The intermittent issues I experienced earlier proved that just fixing the wiring alone might not fully resolve the root cause.

The quote from the workshop aligns with what others have experienced, and Im relieved to hear my issue isnt uncommon. Based on the feedback and similar repair experiences shared, Im going to proceed with the full repair including both the wiring harness and control module replacement. The timeline of 3-4 hours for the repair work makes sense, and the total cost of 450 Euro seems fair compared to what others paid for similar steering column repairs. Its reassuring to know that the complete replacement should provide a long-term fix rather than just a temporary solution. Will schedule the repair for next week. The sensor issue is becoming more annoying by the day, and I dont want to risk any additional electrical faults developing from delayed maintenance. Vehicle diagnostics clearly show this needs attention, and putting it off could potentially lead to more expensive repairs later. Thanks for sharing your experiences with the steering control module repairs. This has helped confirm Im making the right decision with the full replacement rather than attempting a partial fix.