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magdalenascholz40

Audi A6 Parking Assist Failure: Fix Options & Costs

My parking assist stopped working completely and the error light stays on. Currently driving a 2001 Audi A6 gasoline with 156159 km. Has anyone experienced similar issues with their ultrasonic sensors or parking sensors? Looking for advice on typical repair costs and reliable fixes before heading back to a mechanic, since my last repair experience wasnt great. Did you manage to get it sorted without replacing the entire parking assist system?

4 comment(s)

oskarkrause1

Had a similar issue with my 2004 Audi A4 2.0T. The parking assist system failed completely with constant error lights. Initial diagnosis revealed corroded connections at the ultrasonic sensors. The main problem was moisture penetration into the wiring harness connecting the proximity sensors. Water had damaged both the connectors and sensor units over time. The repair required cleaning the connection points, replacing two damaged parking sensors, and sealing the wiring harness properly. This is actually a known weak point in these models. When ultrasonic sensors start failing, its often due to connection issues rather than complete system failure. The fix was fairly straightforward for an experienced mechanic, not requiring full system replacement. Key signs that indicate connection problems rather than full system failure: Sudden complete system shutdown, Constant error light without intermittent function, No response when engaging reverse gear, All sensors failing simultaneously Would recommend having the obstacle detection system properly diagnosed. In most cases, targeted repair of connections and replacement of affected parking sensors resolves the issue. The important part is preventing future moisture damage by proper sealing during repair.

magdalenascholz40 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. Having the exact same problem right now with my A6 where the control module seems to be throwing constant errors. The rearview camera works fine but none of the blind spot sensors or parking sensors are responding. Did your fix hold up long term? Would be great to know what the total repair cost was in your case and if you encountered any other electronic gremlins since getting it fixed.

oskarkrause1

Thanks for asking about the long-term results. After getting the repair done last week, my parking assist system is working perfectly again. The mechanic found faulty wiring between the control module and the ultrasonic sensors, a common issue as these connections deteriorate over time. The fix was straightforward and cost-effective at 95 Euro, mainly involving reconnecting and sealing the wire connections properly. No need for complete system replacement or new parking sensors, which would have been much more expensive. The obstacle detection system now works flawlessly when reversing, with all parking sensors responding correctly. Based on the symptoms you described, your issue sounds very similar to what mine was, likely just connection problems rather than a complete control module failure. Since the repair, there have been zero electronic issues with the parking assist. The key was proper sealing of the connections to prevent future moisture damage. Worth noting that these systems are quite reliable once the wiring issues are properly addressed. Would definitely recommend having a qualified mechanic check the connections first before considering more expensive component replacements.

magdalenascholz40 (Author)

Thanks for the advice. I finally got my Audi fixed yesterday and wanted to share my experience in case others run into similar issues. My mechanic found corroded wiring harnesses affecting the ultrasonic sensors. The control module was actually fine, just getting bad signals from the damaged connections. Total repair came to 180 Euro including labor, which was much better than the 900 Euro quote I got for replacing the entire parking assist system. The proximity sensors and blind spot sensors are all working perfectly now. The mechanic cleaned all connections, replaced two damaged sensor units, and properly sealed everything against moisture. The error light is gone and parking assist responds normally. Big thanks to those who suggested checking connections first. Saved me from unnecessarily replacing the whole control module. Will update if any issues return, but so far the system is working like new after a week of regular use.

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