anna_jones1
Audi S6 Power Lock System Complete Failure Fix
Summary of the thread
The 2013 Audi S6 experienced a complete failure of the power lock system, with neither the key fob nor interior switches functioning. The issue was suspected to be related to a faulty door switch or car alarm system. A similar problem in an Audi S4 was traced to a damaged wiring harness causing incorrect signals to the central locking module. The solution involved repairing the damaged wiring connection, which resolved the lock and alarm issues without needing a full harness replacement. The repair was straightforward and restored normal function to the vehicle's power locks and alarm system.
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4 comment(s)
anna_jones1 (community.author)
Thanks for sharing your S4 experience. Having the exact same issue with my 2012 S6 currently. The door latch mechanism works fine mechanically but none of the power locks respond. Getting a car alarm error on the dash occasionally too. Did any other electrical problems show up after fixing the wiring harness? And if you remember the repair cost, that would be super helpful. My door switch issues started last week and I want to budget properly before heading to the shop.
hermannfox1
After getting the faulty door contact issue properly diagnosed and fixed, everything worked perfectly again. A skilled technician found the problem was a damaged plug connection in the wiring harness, causing unreliable signals to the central locking system. The repair cost came to 95 Euro for replacing the defective cable connection. Once fixed, both the automatic locks and car alarm started working normally again. No other electrical issues appeared afterwards, the door switch and security systems have been functioning reliably for months now. The repair was much simpler than initially feared. The wiring harness didnt need complete replacement, just repair of the faulty connection point. Would definitely recommend getting it checked soon though, as electrical issues like this tend to get worse and can affect other systems if left unaddressed. The occasional alarm error you mentioned matches exactly what I experienced before the repair. Once the proper electrical connection was restored, those warning signals disappeared completely.
anna_jones1 (community.author)
Finally took my S6 to get checked out at a different shop this week. The technician found the exact same wiring harness issue you described. A worn section of the cable was causing all the door lock problems and unusual car alarm warnings. The repair was straightforward, they fixed the damaged wiring connection near the driver side door latch without needing to replace the entire harness. Total cost came to 120 Euro including diagnostic time, which was a relief after expecting much worse. All vehicle doors are working perfectly now with both the key fob and interior switches. The electrical issue is completely resolved and no more error messages on the dash. Really glad I got this fixed before it caused problems with other systems. Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction with the wiring diagnosis.
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AUDI
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S6
hermannfox1
Had the same problem with my 2010 Audi S4. The automatic locks stopped responding completely, similar to your symptoms. The door sensor system was getting incorrect contact signals from the main control unit. After testing, it turned out the cable harness connecting to the central locking module was damaged. The wire insulation had worn through, causing intermittent connection issues. This affected all door sensors and disabled both remote and manual switch operation. While not a severe mechanical issue, it requires careful diagnosis since similar symptoms can come from: Failed door contact sensors, Damaged wiring harness, Faulty central locking control module, Car alarm system interference, Broken door lock actuators The repair involves accessing the main wiring loom behind the driver side kick panel. In my case, they needed to replace a section of the harness and resync the car sensor system. Recommend having a certified shop diagnose this, as improper repairs to the automatic locks can affect other security systems. These issues rarely fix themselves and typically worsen over time.