looking@audi

What do you guys use the storage in front of the shifter on the center console for?

I have been putting so much change in there I can probably pay for my next lease payment.

It seems like mostly wasted space to me (awkward spot to put a cell phone, too big for eyeglasses, etc.). Why not move the shifter forward another inch, which would still provide storage, and leave more room to increase the size of the cupholders.

Opinions?

Juggernaut

Loose change, I agree, I don't know what else to put there.

manishaudi

That won't happen until the next A6/A7. The space is supposed to house the "Cigarette Lighter/Ash Tray", but Audi stopped installing them without telling anyone in the middle of the 2012 model year. In Europe they still them, so that space will stay there.

If anyone is ordering their car, I was told by a Sales guy at my dealer that they can make a request to Audi before manufacturing starts, to install the Smokers package.

My car was built before Audi started doing this, so I have the Smokers Package in my car. I don't smoke, but I like having the extra charging port up there. I use the Ash Tray for my change.

psychodo

+1 same here. I also put my ID badge there from time to time.

kenbob

Remote control to open gate/garage door. Perfect for it.

snagitseven

Don't you have the built in garage door opener programmed?

I use the compartment for my sunglasses that don't fit in the overhead sunglasses compartment.

Grapeking

Have only had the car one month, but seems to be mostly wasted space. Too small for a cup/can, too large for glasses, just an awkward space.

irenesbob

The door to my apartment building's indoor garage does not work like a normal (SEARS) garage door opener. Before the complex switched to a newer high security access system for all doors (including the garage door) we had the old fashioned kind of door opener and on my last three Audi’s I just pointed the remote at the grille, did whatever I was supposed to and it was programmed. This does not work with the new opener and since I am on the board of the coop I called the vendor and they said it will not work but this is an added security benefit so bad guys driving around scanning for door codes won’t be able to gain access. “For how long will that be true” I thought. Anyway, I am getting a 2013 A6 next week – do you think the “hi-tech” remote will work on that (it doesn’t on my 2010 A6)? Maybe Audi upgraded the device to accommodate the new openers.

irenesbob

I searched the door opener manufacturer’s (DoorKing) site and found the following, so I guess it won’t work with the new A6 that I am sure uses HomeLink:
MicroPLUS RF controls provide you with the highest level of security available with RF access controls. Our coding and encryption schemes are not shared with other producers, resulting in transmitter codes that cannot be duplicated or copied. With MicroPLUS controls, you are assured that only the original intended transmitter will activate your access system. MicroPlus products ARE NOT compatible with the HomeLink system.

snagitseven

The '13 A6 uses the same Homelink system as at least the last 5 years so it appears you'll have the same issues.