Audi Q3 Power Seat Failure: Controls Dead & Light On

Had a similar power seats issue on my 2014 Audi A4 last winter. The electric seat controls stopped responding completely, just like your case. Initial diagnosis revealed the problem wasnt just a faulty switch, there was a complete power loss to the seat control module. The root cause turned out to be corroded wiring connections under the seat, which deteriorated due to moisture buildup. The corrosion spread to the seat control module, causing permanent damage. The repair required: Replacing the complete seat control module, Installing new wiring harness, Recoding the module to sync with the cars system This was a serious repair that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The job took about 4 hours since the entire seat had to be removed to access the components. Its not something that can be fixed with basic tools or DIY methods. Given your symptoms, particularly the error light staying on, its likely you have a similar electrical issue rather than just a mechanical switch problem. When the control module fails, it typically affects all seat adjustment functions at once. Would recommend having a certified shop diagnose it properly with diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact cause before any parts are replaced.

Thanks for that detailed reply about the seat motor issue. This definitely sounds similar to what Im experiencing with my Q3. My seat adjustment went from working perfectly to completely dead overnight. The wiring deterioration you mentioned makes sense since I sometimes notice water drops on the floor mats after rain or car washes. Would be interested to know what your final repair cost was since these car seat electrical problems seem pretty complex. Have you had any recurring issues with the seat controls since the repair?

After getting the car seat issue properly diagnosed, it turned out the main problem was actually a heavily discharged battery causing the power seats to malfunction. The seat control module was shutting down to protect the electrical system. The repair was much simpler than my initial experience, no need to replace the seat motor or wiring harness. The mechanic performed a full battery service and reset the seat control module. Total cost came to 290 Euro, which was a relief compared to what I initially feared. Since the battery replacement and reset, the automotive seat functions have worked flawlessly. All power seat adjustments respond immediately, and the error light has completely disappeared. The water drops you mentioned should still be investigated though, as moisture can eventually cause electrical issues with seat components. No recurring problems with the seat switch or any other power seat functions in the 8 months since the repair. This suggests the battery was indeed the root cause rather than corroded wiring as in my previous case.

Just visited the mechanic today for my Q3s seat issue. After hearing about similar problems and being worried about major repairs, I was relieved to discover it was just a blown fuse and loose connection in the seat wiring harness. The electric seat problem was fixed in about an hour. Total bill came to 150 Euro for diagnosis, fuse replacement, and securing the wiring connection. Much better than the potential module replacement I was dreading. The mechanic showed me where water had been seeping in near the seat base, which had caused the connection to corrode. They applied a protective coating to prevent future issues with the power seats. Also got some tips about keeping the area dry to avoid similar problems. All seat adjustment functions are now working perfectly. The error light is gone and the repair cost was way less than expected. Really glad I got it checked out before any serious damage occurred to the seat control system.