Zumkopf

In its relentless endeavor to keep me entertained, my 98 A8 D2 has developed a new problem: failure of both the windshield wipers and the turn signals. I had them both fail at the same time, without warning; then shortly later they magically started working again; now they're out for good. Washer doesn't work either. Hazard flashers do work. My best guess would be some loose or corroded connector in or under the steering column, though I'm not married to that theory. Has anyone else had this failure? Is there a common connector for those two systems? Thanks in advance, Z
1998 A8Q (D2) 145k

Kneale

Used to see this in the original (1990) Audi V8 regularly (we had two). Lights need to be relalyed because if not, contacts at the switch overheat and melt. You'll have to get switch out, clean connections, possibly splice in some new wires and then relay everything.

UncleSam

I have this thing where every time I disconnect the battery the wipers will run for a couple of minutes the first time I turn the ignition on again. And sometimes even if the battery hasn't been disconnected. I have a bunch of more pressing issues so I haven't looked into it, but please report here what you find, might be the same part failing in both our cars.

Oh and btw I have current diagrams if you need something specific let me know.

Zumkopf

Yes, actually. I think the issue is a connector somewhere in or near the steering column. A diagram that shows what connectors there are and where they’re located would be great.

tozoM8

I would check if they share a ground. 22years could cause some corrosion at ground points.

Zumkopf

I pulled the steering column shroud and the panel under the dash, but could see nothing at all wrong with any of the wiring. All the connections are tight, no damage to the wiring itself. I pulled the switch units and checked the continuity pin by pin for both turn signal and wiper stalks; both have continuity at all active settings. They do not share a common fuse or relay that I can see in any wiring diagram. I'm stumped as to what to try next. Thoughts?

Thanks, Z
1998 Audi A8Q D2 145k

jake111

Have you tried turning the ignition key back and forth a little bit when the wipers do not work? It's possible that the ignition switch is faulty.

Zumkopf

It turns out there is a "load relay" that does not show up in any wiring diagram I have, but which in fact takes the signals from some of the steering column stalks and supplies power to the relevant components as commanded. Replaced, and all is well again.

Z 1998 A8Q 145k

Steve Mikaric

Hey man I'm having the same issue, could you please detail your fix? What relay and where? Much appreciated

Zumkopf

Sorry, I cannot shed any light on this, because I threw up my hands and took it to a local Audi expert. He was the one who told me what it was. Cost about $200 including diagnosis, parts and labor.