Audi A4 Cabriolet Soft Top/ Roof / Hood Motor Repair Guide

2007 audi a4 cabriolet. yes we have. at times functions ok up and down. most of the problem is closing the roof. i actually got a call from Audi today in North America. Told them that should really read their forums as hundreds with my make and model have the exact problem i have and for a "premier" auto i expected more. (i had my camry convertible for years with NO problem whatsoever). he is calling me back tomorrow as he needed to"discuss" with someone else.

the error code i guess named that location...am not real car savvy sorry
 
Hi - new to forum & owning a audi .
I just bought a 2007 a4 cab and the roof stopped work about 2 weeks after . It releases the front catches and starts to operate then stops . Then came across this thread - I stripped the motor apart and to my joy it was very dirty so I carried out the repair/clean up but still not working . I removed the relays and bench tested them and both working .
Can anyone point me in the right direction before booking it in with my local audi dealer ?
Thanks Dave
 
Davey k said:
Hi - new to forum & owning a audi .
I just bought a 2007 a4 cab and the roof stopped work about 2 weeks after . It releases the front catches and starts to operate then stops . Then came across this thread - I stripped the motor apart and to my joy it was very dirty so I carried out the repair/clean up but still not working . I removed the relays and bench tested them and both working .
Can anyone point me in the right direction before booking it in with my local audi dealer ?
Thanks Dave
Click to expand...

Dave,

Did you make sure the brushes are free to move and are making contact with the commutator?

Regards
 
Thanks for the fast reply
Yes I made sure they we're in contact with the commutator . Even nipped the ends in so the spring inside has a slight bit more tension .
 
Davey k said:
Thanks for the fast reply
Yes I made sure they we're in contact with the commutator . Even nipped the ends in so the spring inside has a slight bit more tension .
Click to expand...

Dave,

Sorry for repeating myself again, its all good and well making sure that they "look like" they are making contact, but did you physically move them back and forth in the carriers and did they spring back nice and easily ?

Just to confirm, the fault is as fault no 1 on my website ? Next step would be to check the motor is getting power with a multimeter.

Regards
 
The fault is that the windows drop then the front of the roof lifts about 2 -3 inches then stops with no warning lights .
I'll get a voltmeter and check what I'm getting at the motor . Thanks
 
VagPro said:
F295 is a switch designation not an error code. What year is the car ?

Have you tried opening the roof and closing it immedialtely after the opening cycle completes ?
Click to expand...


Yes sometimes me sit works and other times no. 2007 is the year of car
 
VagPro said:
Check power to motor
Click to expand...

we have. been told that is fine. the two problems we have been presented as "maybes" are the switches and/or hydraulic pump. unfortunately they won't tell me for sure and I don't have thousands to spend for maybes!!! is there any clear way to diagnose this?
there are days when this roof works just fine and others where it goes down ok and then will not come back up. we do it manually and try and "reset" the switch by doing it manually twice up and down. to no avail!!!
 
siestakey said:
we have. been told that is fine. the two problems we have been presented as "maybes" are the switches and/or hydraulic pump. unfortunately they won't tell me for sure and I don't have thousands to spend for maybes!!! is there any clear way to diagnose this?
there are days when this roof works just fine and others where it goes down ok and then will not come back up. we do it manually and try and "reset" the switch by doing it manually twice up and down. to no avail!!!
Click to expand...

Hi,

Sorry for repeating myself but as my previous message you need to check the power to the motor, this can be done using a multimeter. In my experience if you have an intermittent fault, 80% of the times it will be the motor, there is no harm in stripping it down and checking the brushes are free to move.
 
ok I can have my boyfriend do that...he is pretty knowledgeable on motors.....do you have a link on how to check this and the brushes???
 
Update - checked power to the motor and all there . As I was in the boot whiles switch was being operated I could hear the motor click ,So I decided to strip the motor again and the brushes we're sitting off about 1mm . So I spent a fair bit of time making sure they sprung back freely . Roof fully working again .
Thanks so much for all your help
 
siestakey said:
ok I can have my boyfriend do that...he is pretty knowledgeable on motors.....do you have a link on how to check this and the brushes???
Click to expand...

Hello the guide at the front should be enough to check the brushes, there is no link on how to check power as it is very simple.
 
Thanks for an excellent thread and advice. Have owned our B7 Cab for a few months now and the roof mechanism is amazing.... although the hinges etc could perhaps use a bit of lubrication.

I guess I'll also be checking/cleaning my motor when I get a free weekend. Needless to say....I keep a printed copy of the manual open/close procedure in my glovebox :whistle2:

.
 
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I'm new to this forum, so Hi !

I've owned a 2005 A4 Cab for 4.5 years and recently it developed a fault with the roof. I'd really appreciate any thoughts on how to cure it.

The first time i noticed a fault was putting the roof down when the operation stopped near the end. The roof folded away, the "lid" was closing and then the motor stopped, leaving the lid to close under gravity until it was almost closed but not latched. I manually closed the lid using the key from the fuse box compartment, however the roof was unresponsive using the switch in the centre console afterwards.

On restarting the car i saw "Soft top not closed" and 10 flashes from the roof indicator.

After a manual reset (viewing the American guy in the you tube vid with the S4), the roof worked as normal. However the problem returned and a manual reset only fixes the problem for one open and close procedure now.

Any thoughts would be extremely welcome. Apologies my first post is about a problem especially as they are really nice, good looking cars!!

Garibaldy
 
Mrs Garibaldy was complaining about not being able to lower the roof yesterday on Friday, so today i did a manual reset which (for the first time) didn't cure the problem - even temporarily. The current symptom when trying to open the roof is that it unlatches and lifts up to the point where the rear window section of the roof lifts up, then the comparment lid unlatches and thats as far as it goes. The compartment lid does not lift up.
 
garibaldy said:
Mrs Garibaldy was complaining about not being able to lower the roof yesterday on Friday, so today i did a manual reset which (for the first time) didn't cure the problem - even temporarily. The current symptom when trying to open the roof is that it unlatches and lifts up to the point where the rear window section of the roof lifts up, then the comparment lid unlatches and thats as far as it goes. The compartment lid does not lift up.
Click to expand...

Hi,

Does the rear window drop down and the hood storage compartment lid is opening ? If so, try supporting it up while the storage compartment lid opens and see if it then completes the opening sequence.

Regards
 
Thanks VagPro. Supporting the read window whilst opening the roof has worked. I've since tried 4 or 5 times without problem! thanks for the help.
 
garibaldy said:
Thanks VagPro. Supporting the read window whilst opening the roof has worked. I've since tried 4 or 5 times without problem! thanks for the help.
Click to expand...

Good news, problem is the time lag in your current control module, as the roof has aged the lack of resistance in the bow is proving to be problematic. You can live the the issue, or try opening the roof with the car facing down hill. Ultimate solution is to replace the roof control module to one from a B7.

Regards
 
VagPro said:
Good news, problem is the time lag in your current control module, as the roof has aged the lack of resistance in the bow is proving to be problematic. You can live the the issue, or try opening the roof with the car facing down hill. Ultimate solution is to replace the roof control module to one from a B7.

Regards
Click to expand...

Thanks VagPro. Do you know how much they cost and how difficult is it to access the part for removal/installation?
 
garibaldy said:
Thanks VagPro. Do you know how much they cost and how difficult is it to access the part for removal/installation?
Click to expand...
control modules vary and you will struggle on eBay for revision A or B which is what you need. I've had to pay up to £180! for when I've needed them. Located behind rhs rear door card and need to perform Basic Settings once you replace. Send me a video just to confirm fault.
 
Hi- Unfortunately the roof malfunctioned today. Current symptom is when trying to open the roof, the roof folds back, storage compartment lid opens, roof folds way, compartment lid almost closes but doesnt latch i.e. it is stays raised by about an inch or two.

Is this the same problem, but a different symptom?
 
Hi Vagpro,

I have sent you a email through your web site.
My Roof on my S4 stopped working this afternoon.
I gave the motor a few small taps with a hammer (as I had no other option - the manual Key was missing)
and it worked.
So roof is up.
Good for a temp fix :)
 
Tapping the motor casing will no doubt have freed-up the bushes in their carriers allowing them to once again make contact with the commutator once they have become unstuck.

Depending on how they are stuck, sometimes knocking the case will/won't work. It's worth a try if you're stuck away from home but it's not a permanent fix as they will more than likely become stuck again over time...
 
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Hi JJ, it was my only option as the manual key was missing ;)
Im glad I watch top gear, I learnt all my mechanical skills from Clarkson ;) lol !
 
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My roof yesterday bloked one more time...I can not free the brushes of the electric motor completely..pheraps i can't understand how to do or where to pry..can you post a pic or a video?..i live in italy so i can't
 
Arcer said:
My roof yesterday bloked one more time...I can not free the brushes of the electric motor completely..pheraps i can't understand how to do or where to pry..can you post a pic or a video?..i live in italy so i can't
Click to expand...

Hello,

Sorry no picture available yet, If the brushes are not moving then you need to pry open the carriers via the slot, I believe you have also sent me a message on FB, I will try send you a photo on the next one I do.
 
VagPro said:
Hello,

Sorry no picture available yet, If the brushes are not moving then you need to pry open the carriers via the slot, I believe you have also sent me a message on FB, I will try send you a photo on the next one I do.
Click to expand...
no more words....you are the best....what I can't understand is what you mean with "OPEN the CARRIERS via THE SLOT" (maybe is my poor english)...Did you mean to permanently remove the slot? doing so, it jumps off the spring and brush?
 
VagPro said:
No, look at the picture on page one of this thread, you will see an arrow on a picture which points to the slot. I will try send you a picture during my next job.
Click to expand...

Ok i'll waiting your pic :) thank you
 
Gosh what an amazing thread!

I also have a hood issue with my 2004 A4 CAB - however i don't get the partial lift at the front. When i try to operate the hood via the switch, the windows go half way down and then nothing ... the front locks do not disengage and no motor noise. the hood light flashes in the dash.

I have manually fully opened, and then fully closed but the symptom remains. However I did this with the key out of the ignition

I do have VCDS-Lite which works as i regularly use to reset an intermittent oxygen sensor issue and other bits and bobs. However, and assuming that the control module is "38 - Roof Electronics" , I cannot connect to this and it times out.

My questions are as follows :-

1: The fact that nothing happens at all other than the windows dropping half-way. Is this because a fault code exists and so it prevents the hood operating? Or if this was the case then would the windows not even drop?

2: Given that the hood does not unlatch and lift even an inch, does this mean that - at this moment in time - there is no point doing anything fiddly with the motor?

3: Is it more likely to be some Switch/Electronics at the top of the windscreen that is failing .. i.e. whatever should release the locking hooks,
Or could it be the Control Module in that "impossible to access" rear "door"?


Tonight I intend to do the following :-

Download the latest VCDS-Lite ... in case I have an out of date version - and try to get the "38 - Roof Electronics" Control Module working.
Open and close the hood manually several times *with the ignition on* (last night the key was not in the ignition)
Open the hood manually but try to close electronically - see if it makes any difference



any pointers gratefully received. I am in Pulborough - mid Sussex .... I never use the Stealers, but have used a indy Audi specialist 30 miles away before

I reckon I have to get the VCDS working in order to progress this so I might have to pay the Indy a visit .... unless you ever come South of London on your travels?
 
Last edited:
Hello

I'm Robert from Hungary and I have a 2003 b7 cabrio. I have a problem with my Audi's top.

Yesterday I wanna pull up the the top , but not closed full. I close the the top manual with the special key.

After in dashboard the "VERDECK NICHT IN ENDLAGE / TOP NOT CLOSED FULLY (?) message appear.
( But the top closed full)


After I wanna pull down the top, but when I press the button nothing hapens. I pull down the top manual and the message in the dashboard passed.

I press the top's button and happening nothing again. I pull up the top manual and the "VERDECK NICHT IN ENDLAGE / TOP NOT CLOSED FULLY (?) massage again appear.

Whats the problem with the Audi's top?

Regards

Robert
 
Ferretktf said:
Gosh what an amazing thread!

I also have a hood issue with my 2004 A4 CAB - however i don't get the partial lift at the front. When i try to operate the hood via the switch, the windows go half way down and then nothing ... the front locks do not disengage and no motor noise. the hood light flashes in the dash.

I have manually fully opened, and then fully closed but the symptom remains. However I did this with the key out of the ignition

I do have VCDS-Lite which works as i regularly use to reset an intermittent oxygen sensor issue and other bits and bobs. However, and assuming that the control module is "38 - Roof Electronics" , I cannot connect to this and it times out.

My questions are as follows :-

1: The fact that nothing happens at all other than the windows dropping half-way. Is this because a fault code exists and so it prevents the hood operating? Or if this was the case then would the windows not even drop?

2: Given that the hood does not unlatch and lift even an inch, does this mean that - at this moment in time - there is no point doing anything fiddly with the motor?

3: Is it more likely to be some Switch/Electronics at the top of the windscreen that is failing .. i.e. whatever should release the locking hooks,
Or could it be the Control Module in that "impossible to access" rear "door"?


Tonight I intend to do the following :-

Download the latest VCDS-Lite ... in case I have an out of date version - and try to get the "38 - Roof Electronics" Control Module working.
Open and close the hood manually several times *with the ignition on* (last night the key was not in the ignition)
Open the hood manually but try to close electronically - see if it makes any difference



any pointers gratefully received. I am in Pulborough - mid Sussex .... I never use the Stealers, but have used a indy Audi specialist 30 miles away before

I reckon I have to get the VCDS working in order to progress this so I might have to pay the Indy a visit .... unless you ever come South of London on your travels?
Click to expand...

Hello,

Given that the vehicle is older than '06 I doubt it is the hydraulic motor fault. Chances are the front top locking motor at the windscreen is faulty. Check the power to it with a multimeter.

Also on VCDS the button I click on is called "Auto Roof"

I am planning on being in south London on the 2nd August.

Regards
Khurrum
 
Last edited:
robi864 said:
Hello

I'm Robert from Hungary and I have a 2003 b7 cabrio. I have a problem with my Audi's top.

Yesterday I wanna pull up the the top , but not closed full. I close the the top manual with the special key.

After in dashboard the "VERDECK NICHT IN ENDLAGE / TOP NOT CLOSED FULLY (?) message appear.
( But the top closed full)


After I wanna pull down the top, but when I press the button nothing hapens. I pull down the top manual and the message in the dashboard passed.

I press the top's button and happening nothing again. I pull up the top manual and the "VERDECK NICHT IN ENDLAGE / TOP NOT CLOSED FULLY (?) massage again appear.

Whats the problem with the Audi's top?

Regards

Robert
Click to expand...

Hello,

Either the roof is not closed correctly, or you have a fault sensor you need to check MBV's on VCDS.

Regards
Khurrum
 
Hello again,

Its been a year since I repaired my A4 Cab roof with this very thread, even after repairing i still come back and read the thread.

Sadly, I have a new problem. About 2 months ago the roof stalled (stopped) while opening, I switched off engine, restarted and it completed the opening and closing. In between now and then the fault appeared another 3 times. Now the roof fails to operate at all. Not even part of it moves, lifts as it did before.

Status: Faulty roof warning light flashing, When I drive it says 'roof not secure'
Action so far: Performed a manual reset, checked the motor - NO current flowing when switch is operated, cleaned the commutators anyway.


VCDS report
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 26: Auto Roof Labels: 8H0-959-255.lbl
Part No: 8H0 959 255 A
Component: VSG B6 CABRIO 7094
Shop #: WSC 00672 785 00200
VCID: 346CABBA54EC79BE5BD

1 Fault Found
02000 - Switch Position
008 - Implausible Signal

Not sure if this helps:


Address 26: Auto Roof ()

21:59:18 Group 001: Convertible Top Status (Actual)
Data for Convertible Top Control Switch
Group 001 Switches && Positions I
Not Switches && Positions II
Available Top Frame Position (G356)

21:59:18 Group 002
0.0 km/h Vehicle Speed
12.10 V Voltage (Terminal 30)
Lid close Rear Lid Contact Switch
00000000 Window Regulator Operation

21:59:18 Group 003: Window Positions
3.0 Window Position Driver's Door
0.0 Window Position Passenger Door
0.0 Window Position Rear Left Door
0.0 Window Position Rear Right Door

I reset the faults but problem still not resolved.

Any suggestions?
Thanks
Deep

d33p said:
Krumz! You are the man!

I reopened the motor and inserted a screwdriver like you said and twisted it so the brush suddenly popped out. Now both brushes are correctly touching the commutator and no longer sticking when pulled back.

I reassembled everything and hey presto, it worked!! After many months of no roof operation (the previous owners didn't want to go down the road of fixing it!) it worked just like that with no hesitation. Needs a good clean though.

Thanks very much mate, i'm so grateful for the thread and your advice.

All the best!
Deep
Click to expand...
 
Hello,

If you are getting the roof not secure message then it will not work. Two possiblities
1) you have not secured the roof correctly and one of the locks is not fully locked

2) you have a switch or sensor out, check your mbv's against rosstechs site. Also what's is mbv 1-4 value ?

It may be easier to just post a screen shot of mbv 1.

Regards
Khurrum
 
audi upgrades
Just wondering if the roof mechanism needs routine lubrication - if so, which parts, what type of lubricant and roughly how often ?


Noticed mine is getting a tad clunky/creaky......but maybe its just the hot weather or (more likely) just me.
 
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