RS3 Climate Control Failure Points to Ventilation Flap

Had a similar issue on a 2013 S3 a while back. Have some experience working on HVAC systems, though mainly basic maintenance. The climate control malfunction ended up being a loose connection at the flap actuator motor. The system diagnostics showed similar symptoms, no cooling and distribution problems. After checking the air circulation components, the workshop found a damaged wire harness causing intermittent connection issues. The repair involved accessing the actuator behind the dashboard, replacing the damaged connector and securing the wiring properly. Total cost was 95 Euro including system diagnostics and labor. Since then, the HVAC repair has held up well with no recurring issues. To better assist with your specific case: Have you noticed any unusual sounds when adjusting temperature/air flow? Did the issue start suddenly or develop gradually? Are you getting any air flow at all, just not cold air? Can you share the exact error code from the system? These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced. The RS3 uses a similar climate control setup, but accessing components can differ slightly between models.

Thanks for the feedback. The issue began suddenly last week after my latest service at 6730 KM. When adjusting temperature settings, there is a clicking noise from behind the dash. The air flow is minimal through all vents, but the system diagnostics shows both the compressor and blower motor are functioning. Error code P0532 appears, suggesting low refrigerant pressure, but the clicking sound makes me think the actuator might be the real problem affecting air circulation.

Thanks for those details. The clicking noise matches exactly what I heard with my S3 before getting it fixed. While P0532 typically points to refrigerant issues, the timing after your service plus the clicking suggests something got disturbed during maintenance. In my case, the system diagnostics also showed normal compressor and blower function, but the air distribution was compromised due to the loose connector affecting the flap actuator position. The minimal airflow through all vents is another matching symptom that points to distribution problems rather than a pure refrigerant issue. Before assuming low refrigerant, I would recommend having the air distribution system checked first. The clicking from behind the dash is a strong indicator of mechanical issues with the flap mechanism. My repair started with a basic system diagnostics which quickly identified the actuator connection problem. Since the issue started right after service, you might want to: 1. Have them verify all HVAC connections were properly secured after service 2. Check if the flap actuator wiring was accidentally disturbed 3. Get the climate control unit recalibrated if needed The repair should be straightforward if its similar to what I experienced with the wiring harness issue.

Thanks for the comprehensive response. Makes sense about checking connections first, especially given the service timing. I just called the workshop and they confirmed they had to remove some dashboard components during the last service to access the cabin filter. I will have them check the HVAC connections and flap actuator wiring as suggested. The clicking noise has actually gotten more frequent since my last post, particularly when switching between different air distribution modes. This really reinforces your point about it being a mechanical issue rather than just low refrigerant. Air conditioning problems are always frustrating, but at least the repair costs you mentioned seem reasonable if it turns out to be a similar wiring issue affecting the flap actuator. I will schedule the diagnostics check tomorrow and have them focus on the air distribution system components first. Will update once I know more about what they find behind the dashboard.