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Digital Instrument panels, also known as digital dashboards, will be the normal for upcoming automobiles. Audi has always taken the lead in being ahead of the curve when it comes to next-generation devices and pushing the limits of technology in their cars. Sleek, easy to read, and customizable, these panels are the top of the line in displays.

With new technology, there are always unknowns, and lab testing doesn’t always prepare new technology for the bumps and bruises of the road. We will look at common issues that have occurred with this new technology and talk about how to best solve these problems if they occur in your Audi.

How a Digital Dashboard Works

The digital dashboard in an Audi replaces your older mechanical/analog displays for an interactive screen. This allows you to control how it functions.

The display includes familiar speedometers, an RPM display, and a fuel gauge. It allows the driver to give it certain other control features. Some of these include controlling the cabin’s music, interacting with the GPS, and answering phone calls. Aesthetically, they are beautiful, and if the owner does not care for the colors and brightness of the display, they are able to change its characteristics.

The Negative Side of Digital Dashboards

As discussed, digital dashboards are relatively new and high-tech. Anything this state of the art is bound to have issues. The problem is, if your Audi’s digital dashboard fails, you don’t simply lose a speedometer or a gas gauge. You can lose everything.

Think about driving down the highway at night and your entire display vanishes. This is an extreme case, and most issues are minor, but you get the idea of how problematic this can be for the safe operation of your Audi.

Common Causes Of Digital Dashboard Issues

Open or Short Circuits

A short or open circuit in your Audi’s electrical system can cause an issue with your digital dashboard. In most modern cars, including the Audi, this will mostly result in a blown fuse. Once a fuse fails to your dashboard, you could experience anything from a partial to total blackout.

Fuses themselves are simple to replace. However, what you need to worry about is that there has to be a reason a fuse blows. This can mean there are deeper electrical issues. If your Audi experiences blown fuses, have your electrical system checked by a professional technician. An underlying electrical problem needs to be repaired right away to avoid costly fixes later.

Your System Needs an Update

As tech progresses, every machine with it runs off of a computer program. This is no different for your Audi. Each time there is a software update, your car should have its system updated. Without updates, your digital dashboard may be subject to glitches and failures.

This is one reason not to skip regularly scheduled maintenance at a certified Audi shop. Trained technicians will make sure you have the latest software updates installed when you bring your Audi in for repair.

Instrumentation Cluster Problems

The instrument cluster in your Audi controls all of your display options, apps, and icons. When this cluster begins to fail, you could experience a temporary or permanent loss of some or all of your display. Again, this can be dangerous for those counting on their digital dashboard for safety and control of their care.

Preventing Dashboard Display Issues

Issues with your digital display may not be completely preventable. They can certainly be repaired when problems first begin and before they become larger issues. By making sure you take your Audi for regular servicing, your Audi shop can find problems early.

Autowerks services customers in the communities of Brenham, Bryan, Caldwell, Madisonville, Navasota, and College Station, TX. We know how to troubleshoot and repair your Audi’s digital display when you experience issues. No repair is beyond our knowledge when it comes to your Audi or another well-engineered European model.

We have been a family-owned, independent automotive service facility since 1975. We pride ourselves in being a cost-effective alternative to dealerships. Our shop and certified technicians offer a full range of services for your luxury and performance vehicles. Call us today to have your car properly maintained and avoid problems down the road.