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jannikcrystal7

RS5 Power Windows Dead, Initialization Error Alert

My power windows stopped working completely and my scan tool shows an error related to window regulator initialization. The windows wont move at all when pressing any switch. With my last mechanic visit being a total ripoff, I want to avoid another bad experience. Has anyone dealt with similar window troubleshooting on their RS5? Looking for advice on whether this is likely a window motor issue or something more serious with the car electronics. My car is a 2019 RS5 with 167897km on the clock.

4 comment(s)

dirkeagle4

Having experienced similar window controls issues on my 2016 Audi S5, this sounds like a power window initialization problem that occurred after a battery disconnect or replacement. The window regulator needs to be reset when power is interrupted. This often happens after battery work or when the battery gets very low. The window motors and switches actually remain functional, but the control module enters a safety mode requiring reinitialization. The reset procedure typically involves: 1. Turn ignition to ON position 2. Pull and hold the window switch up until fully closed 3. Release switch, then pull up again for 3 seconds 4. Push switch down until window fully opens 5. Release switch, then push down again for 3 seconds 6. Repeat for each window If this reset procedure does not resolve the issue, there could be a failed window motor or faulty window switch assembly. However, given that all windows stopped simultaneously, this points more toward a system initialization requirement rather than multiple component failures. Worth trying the reset procedure before visiting a shop, as window troubleshooting at a dealer level often starts with this same process. The error code you mentioned is consistent with this diagnosis.

jannikcrystal7 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience with the window reset procedure. I had the exact same symptoms on my RS5 last winter, but in my case the initialization steps did not solve it. Turned out the main window control module was failing, which affected all 4 window motors simultaneously. The repair was straightforward once diagnosed properly, replacing the master switch in the driver door fixed everything. Have you tried the reset procedure yet? Would be good to know if it worked in your case and how much the repair ended up costing if you needed one. Mine was around 400 Euro for parts and labor. Also curious if youve had any other window regulator or switch issues since getting it fixed?

dirkeagle4

Thanks for the follow up about your window control module repair. I actually just got back from the mechanic yesterday where they diagnosed and fixed my power window issue. While the window regulator initialization procedure you mentioned did not work initially, it turned out my problems stemmed from a weak vehicle battery that was causing electrical system issues. After replacing the battery for 290 Euro including labor, all window functions returned to normal. The mechanic was able to successfully complete the window reset procedure after the new battery installation. Now all four window motors are working perfectly again with no error codes. The window regulator system seems very sensitive to proper voltage levels, which makes sense given all the electronic controls involved. Unlike your case where the master switch needed replacement, my window motors and regulators were actually fine, they just needed stable power from a healthy battery to function correctly.

jannikcrystal7 (Author)

After checking everyone's suggestions, I wanted to share how my situation turned out. I went ahead and took my RS5 to a different mechanic this time who actually specializes in electrical diagnostics. Turns out this saved me from overpaying since they quickly identified the real problem. Despite trying the window reset procedure multiple times, the issue persisted. The mechanic found that water had gotten into the door panel and corroded some connections in the window switch assembly. The repair was much simpler than I expected, just needed to replace the damaged wiring and clean the connectors. Total bill came to 180 Euro, which felt fair considering my last shop wanted 600 Euro just to start diagnosing the window troubleshooting. The windows are working perfectly now. This whole experience taught me to be more selective with repair shops and that sometimes what seems like a major electrical problem can have a straightforward fix.

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