Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSAUDI1998A8 SEDAN (4D2) V8-3.7L (AEW)REPAIR AND DIAGNOSISSTARTING AND CHARGINGPOWER AND GROUND DISTRIBUTIONPOWER DISTRIBUTION MODULETECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINSELECTRICAL - ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTIONS AFTER WINDOW TINT
1998 Audi A8 Sedan (4D2) V8-3.7L (AEW)
Electrical - Electrical Malfunctions After Window Tint
1998 Audi A8 Sedan (4D2) V8-3.7L (AEW)SECTION Electrical - Electrical Malfunctions After Window Tint
00 Electrical components malfunctioning after windows have been tinted
00 12 33
2017729/5
March 14, 2012.
Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 00 number 11 - 30 dated August 2, 2011 for reasons listed below.

Affected Vehicles

Condition
^ Various electrical components malfunctioning.
^ Water ingress into trunk, door, dome light or dash panel areas during the application of window tint.
Technical Background
Vehicles are designed to prevent water from entering the interior cabin from the outside. To ensure a secure installation of interior components (trim and accessory pieces), holes for fasteners are strategically placed in interior surfaces. During application of window tint film, water may enter interior areas through these openings, damaging electrical components located near window glass. Electrical components in these areas must be removed or protected during application of window tint film.
Production Solution
Not applicable.
Service
1. If you encounter a vehicle with a defective control module located in the area around or below windows which are tinted, check if the failure occurred shortly after the window tint was installed.
2. Inspect the control module and wiring connections for signs of water damage.
3. Also, inform any vendors with which your Dealership may conduct business about the content of this bulletin.
Warranty
This damage is due to outside influence and is not covered by any Audi warranty.
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.
00 12 33
2017729/5
March 14, 2012.
Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 00 number 11 - 30 dated August 2, 2011 for reasons listed below.
Affected Vehicles
Condition
^ Various electrical components malfunctioning.
^ Water ingress into trunk, door, dome light or dash panel areas during the application of window tint.
Technical Background
Vehicles are designed to prevent water from entering the interior cabin from the outside. To ensure a secure installation of interior components (trim and accessory pieces), holes for fasteners are strategically placed in interior surfaces. During application of window tint film, water may enter interior areas through these openings, damaging electrical components located near window glass. Electrical components in these areas must be removed or protected during application of window tint film.
Production Solution
Not applicable.
Service
1. If you encounter a vehicle with a defective control module located in the area around or below windows which are tinted, check if the failure occurred shortly after the window tint was installed.
2. Inspect the control module and wiring connections for signs of water damage.
3. Also, inform any vendors with which your Dealership may conduct business about the content of this bulletin.
Warranty
This damage is due to outside influence and is not covered by any Audi warranty.
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.