Hey guys,
A good friend of mine has a 2007 Audi A4 convertible. He was asking me last night after hockey if I could help him install a new convertible top latch motor on his car. Apparently there is a motor that latches the top to the windshield, and it isn't operating properly. Any gotchas with such a job? I have no idea what this motor looks like by the way. Any special tools(probably, because German)?
Good source for the part?
I looked it up, and used they're $250 on eBay with the linkages and latch plates. It appears you'll need to get inside the trim that covers the inside of the header rail, disconnect a couple ez-break connectors, disconnect the linkages, R&R the motor and put everything back. You'll need small sockets, like 8-13, Torx bits, needle nose pliers, dental picks for releasing connectors, flashlight.
Adjusting the linkages for correct latching and top tension isn't a trivial task. Look for a how-to on youtube. Bear in mind that if this "friend" took it to the stealership it'd be an $800 job, so he owes you a steak and good beers.
I can't seem to be able to find a YouTube video on this repair. How did you find one?
In reply to Mazdax605
I was merely suggesting you look for one!
Ahhh, okay I have not had any luck finding a video.
This job has the potential to really make you look like a goat. Unless you've done this before and adjusted a convertible top before I'd pass.
It's easiest to do it while the top is down but toneau cover is still up.
Remove the trim panel and mark the location of the latches and motor so you don't have to hassle with adjustment after repair. Disconnect linkages, electrical connector, then unbolt motor.
I think I will pass. I know nothing about convertibles, and less about Audi's.
Bullet dodged. My friend traded in the Audi this afternoon because of the top operation issue, and some sort of chain on the back side of the engin ethat has worn its way through a housing. Not sure what sort of chain woul dbe on the back side of an engine, but then again I don't understand German luxury cars anyway.
Said friend traded into a Kia Cadenza(spelling?). Not sure what the hell that is, but my guess is it's way nicer than I think it is. Also may be one of the worst car names ever. Sounds like a skin condition.
Chris
Mazdax605 wrote: Bullet dodged. My friend traded in the Audi this afternoon because of the top operation issue, and some sort of chain on the back side of the engin ethat has worn its way through a housing. Not sure what sort of chain woul dbe on the back side of an engine, but then again I don't understand German luxury cars anyway.
The timing chain is on the back of the engine.
Really? Why would they do it that way? Also how the hell would it be able to wear through something that would cause an oil leak?
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