Audi 100 autocheck/dashboard random faults

[pimpdriver]

Hello, car is a 1990 Audi 100 2.3 quattro avant with the Autocheck system.

The dashboard has a slight electrical gremlin. Occasionally the "FULL BEAM", and "INDICATOR SIGNALS" will glow dimly. A good whack on top of the dash solves this. Also related, they flash when you put the indicators on. I guess a dodgy connection behind the dash - might try taking out the dash pod and cleaning the contacts with switch cleaner. The speedo needle also wavers slightly too sometimes, again, a good whack sorts this out.

Something else which is REALLY bizarre.....

When you put the central fresh air vent to "open" (well, actually as soon as it isn't "closed") the Autocheck system says I have a sidelight bulb out!!! This then goes out when you close the vent!!! How bizarre???? I have repeated this loads of times and it is 100% repeatable.

ANy ideas??

Steve

[Coxy]

Gremlins!!

[pimpdriver]

Thanks for that Coxmeister!

I presume they're electrical gremlins??

Got any tips for my rear calipers? Mechanical gremlins???

[Coxy]

Originally Posted by pimpdriver

Thanks for that Coxmeister!

I presume they're electrical gremlins??

Got any tips for my rear calipers? Mechanical gremlins???

yup!!

Actually, as it happens, I've got a similar problem on my 80 Q Avant with the rear o/s brake caliper sticking. The only thing I could do to sort it was basically, strip it down and just manually free it up and clean it up with some hot water and wet n dry.

If that doesn't cure it then you can get a caliper rebuild kit or browse eBay as half the time it's cheaper to fit a new (used) caliper.

[pimpdriver]

I just found this on bangernomics, talking about the 20V coupe (and Audis in general)

http://bangernomics.tripod.com/uberban.htm

Brilliant website BTW.

Handbrake - the 20V uses the Girling 38mm rear calipers found on various other VW/Audi cars of the same era, and the handbrake actuator on them is notorious for seizing. As the 20V is a heavy old beast with a decent amount of power, you may not notice the handbrake is dragging, until one of your rear brakes catches fire and envelops you in foul-smelling smoke. I have found that replacement calipers now have a stronger return spring which helps, but regular attention is still required (spray grease around the pivot point). I have heard that Mk4 Golfs have a different caliper design which can be retro-fitted to earlier Golfs, and therefore presumably to 20Vs, but I have not laid my hands on these redesigned calipers yet.

[Coxy]

Superb site, love is bangernomics valuation section!

Almost how I do mine when buying a car, but I tend to try my luck first and just half the figure!!