Audi A7 Electrical Gremlins Signal Failing Alternator

Had similar alternator issues with my 2019 A5 last season. The symptoms match exactly what you describe, weak engine performance, electrical system acting up, and dashboard warnings. Initially thought it was just a battery issue, but the dim lights and inconsistent startup were clear signs of alternator problems. The serpentine belt was actually fine, but the alternator had failed and wasnt providing proper charge to the battery. When tested, it was outputting well below the required voltage. This explains why the car would start fine after a jump but quickly show problems again. A complete alternator replacement was necessary, no way around it. This isnt a quick fix job since accessing the alternator requires removing several components first. The repair itself is quite involved and needs specific diagnostic equipment to ensure proper electrical output after installation. The battery was also damaged from being consistently undercharged, so that needed replacement too. These issues generally dont fix themselves and will only get worse, potentially leaving you stranded when the alternator completely fails. Worth noting, when the car wont start properly and shows multiple electrical issues, its crucial to get it checked soon before it affects other electrical components in the vehicle.

Thanks for sharing your A5 experience. The symptoms really do sound identical to what I went through with my A7. The car won't start properly anymore and the electrical system is getting more unreliable by the day. Quick question, do you remember roughly what the total repair cost was for your alternator replacement? Also curious if youve had any voltage drop issues or other electrical problems since the fix? My main concern is making sure everything gets properly diagnosed this time. The last mechanic I went to missed some obvious signs of alternator issues and I ended up paying for unnecessary repairs.

Had the generator issue fixed last week and it resolved all the electrical problems completely. The total came to 960 Euro for the generator replacement, which included labor and diagnostic time. The charging system is now working perfectly, no more dim lights, battery low warnings, or startup problems. The repair was worth every cent since it fixed all those frustrating electrical issues. The engine runs strong again and the battery maintains proper charge. No more dashboard warning lights or electrical system problems since the repair. My advice would be to get it checked soon, as a failing generator can lead to starter motor issues or leave you stranded. Getting it fixed properly the first time saves money in the long run by preventing damage to other electrical components. Make sure they test the entire charging system when diagnosing, not just the battery. A proper diagnosis should include voltage output testing under different conditions to confirm its the generator causing your engine misfire and electrical problems.

Thanks for the advice. After seeing all the responses, I bit the bullet and took it to a different shop. They did a full diagnostic check and confirmed what you all suspected, the alternator was shot. The repair cost came to 890 Euro total, which included a new alternator and labor. They also found the battery was pretty worn down from being undercharged, but it still had some life left. The mechanic was upfront about everything and showed me the test readings. Been about two weeks now and the car is running perfectly. No more dim lights, battery low warnings, or weird car electronics issues. Engine has its power back and starts right up every time. Really glad I got it sorted before getting stranded somewhere. Looking back, those electrical gremlins were clear signs of alternator failure. Should have addressed it sooner instead of hoping it would fix itself. Good lesson learned about not ignoring warning signs when the car acts up.