Audi e-tron Tailgate Half-Opening Issue Solved

Having dealt with a similar automatic tailgate issue on my 2019 e-tron 55, I can share my experience. I have some experience working on EVs, particularly with electrical sensor problems. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, partial opening and error codes. Initially thought it was the tailgate motor, but the diagnostic revealed a sensor fault caused by damaged wiring connections. The hall sensor wiring had developed a poor connection where the harness flexes during tailgate operation. The repair involved replacing the sensor wiring harness and recalibrating the tailgate motor system. Total cost was 95 Euro for parts and labor. The workshop completed this in about 2 hours. They mentioned this is a known issue that can develop over time due to repeated opening/closing cycles. To help provide more specific guidance: Which trim level is your Q4? Does the issue occur consistently or intermittently? Are you getting any specific error messages on the display? Does the tailgate make any unusual sounds when operating? These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something different.

Thanks for sharing those details about the sensor issue. My Q4 has 121078 KM on the odometer and last service was completed at 120000 KM. The tailgate issue happens consistently every time, with a clear clicking sound when it stops. The vehicle sensor diagnostics show error code U0401. No unusual sounds besides the clicking. The motor seems to engage normally at first but then loses position tracking. After trying basic troubleshooting steps like recalibrating the tailgate position limits, the problem persists. My guess is the hall sensor needs replacement rather than just a wiring fix, given the consistent nature of the fault.

The clicking sound and consistent behavior you describe definitely points toward the hall sensor itself rather than just the wiring harness I initially dealt with. While my power tailgate issue was resolved with the wiring repair, I later learned from my technician that the clicking noise specifically indicates the sensor has lost its ability to accurately track position. The U0401 code combined with the symptoms suggests the electrical sensor is failing to communicate properly with the tailgate control module. In my case, the wiring repair was sufficient since the sensor itself was still functional. However, your higher mileage and the clicking sound align more with complete sensor failure. The automatic tailgate repair on these models typically runs 180-250 Euro when the sensor unit needs replacement. The job involves accessing the tailgate motor assembly and replacing both the sensor and attached wiring to ensure proper function. Make sure they perform a full calibration of the power tailgate system after replacement. Consider having them check the motor mounting points while they have it apart, I discovered loose mounting hardware was common around this mileage, which can affect sensor alignment and overall tailgate operation. Based on the diagnostic code and symptoms, this should resolve your issue completely, unlike my simpler wiring repair.

Thanks for the comprehensive information about the sensor unit replacement. I appreciate you sharing the cost range and repair details, helps set expectations for the service visit. The clicking sound matching what you described with hall sensor failures is particularly helpful. Given my mileage and the consistent nature of the fault, I agree that replacing both the sensor and wiring makes more sense than just attempting a wiring repair like in your case. I'll make sure to request they check those motor mounting points you mentioned during the repair. I'll go ahead and schedule the service appointment for the tailgate motor and sensor replacement. Having dealt with this issue for a few weeks now, it will be good to get it properly fixed. Will update once the repair is completed in case the information helps others with similar symptoms.