80 Cabrio auto gear selector illumination

[Speedbird209]

So the bulbs on the instrument panel that show if in P R N D 321 etc gave up after 23 years. They were an easy if slightly fiddly fix.

Does anyone know if there's any quick way to disassemble the actual gear selector unit to replace bulbs in there. Any advice much appreciated.

On an aside got a letter from Audi to replace the air bag gas generator which has now been done at main dealer with a lovely wash and interior clean to boot. Initially thought the letter was for our daily driver so was quite impressed they'd bothered to contact current owners of fairly old cars.

[mikes2]

It's very similar to the outside temperature display so the method will be the same.

A couple of small screws to open the unit and you can solder a new bulb in. Just cut the legs off the old one.

I have a spare unit here that came with a car I bought. You're welcome to it if you cover the postage. You then have a spare unit to practice your soldering skills.

[Speedbird209]

Hi Mike,
Many thanks for that, it’s v generous of you.
I’ve done the module in the instrument panel but it’s the bulb/s on the actual selector on the centre console tunnel. I’ve only got my old Haynes manual but nothing there in connection to disassembling the cover off the unit itself. It looks like the plastic strip with P R N D etc may come off but don’t want to force and ruin it. Worse comes to worst I’ll just rely on instrument panel indicator.
Keep well.

[mikes2]

I misread your post - apologies.

[Ben]

Looks like you need to remove the center console off the selector assembly. The bulb is item 46:

[Speedbird209]

Stonkingly brilliant of you Mike! Thanks ever so much, that’s a massive help and Saturday taken care of.