The Audi A1 (second generation) brings a fresh, modern look to the compact car segment, designed for drivers who appreciate a balance of style and functionality. Its sharp, angular lines, combined with a bold front grille and sporty stance, create an unmistakable presence on the road. This subcompact vehicle, which competes with models like the MINI Hatch and Volkswagen Polo, showcases Audi's commitment to performance and premium quality in a smaller package.
One of the key technological features of the Audi A1 GB is the use of LED lighting, specifically the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). These LED modules are an essential component in modern automotive safety systems, improving visibility during daylight hours. The inclusion of DRLs is now a standard feature in all new vehicles, including the Audi A1, as part of global safety regulations. These lights not only enhance the car’s aesthetic but also play a critical role in road safety by making vehicles more noticeable to other drivers.
However, like any automotive component, the LED diodes in the DRLs can become defective over time. When this happens, it's important to understand the potential issues and the solutions available. In this blog, we will explore the common causes of DRL malfunctions in the Audi A1 GB, signs to watch out for, and how you can address the issue to ensure your car stays safe and road-ready.
Diagnosing and Troubleshooting DRL Malfunctions
If your Audi's Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are not functioning properly, it's important to diagnose the issue thoroughly to ensure road safety and compliance with regulations. The most common errors you may encounter are "Left Side light/Daytime Running Light defective. See Owner's manual" or "Right Side light/Daytime Running Light defective. See Owner's manual." These messages typically indicate a problem with the LED DRL system, but there can be multiple reasons behind the malfunction.
To start troubleshooting, a good first step is to check the car fuses. A blown fuse can sometimes be the root cause of the DRLs not working, as the fuse controls the electrical circuit that powers the lights. If the fuse is damaged, replacing it might resolve the issue without any need for further intervention.
Next, inspect the LED diode module itself. Over time, the LED module or the heatsink that regulates temperature might fail, causing the lights to malfunction. Remove the LED part from the headlamp assembly and visually inspect it for signs of damage. If you find that the LED diode has stopped working, replacing the part is a straightforward process. The good news is that no additional coding is required when replacing the DRL module, making the fix relatively simple.
Another common method for diagnosing the issue is to swap the faulty module with the one from the opposite side. This helps to confirm if the module itself is defective or if there’s another issue in the system. If the error moves to the opposite side after the swap, it’s a clear sign that the module is the problem. However, if the error remains on the same side, further inspection may be needed, as the problem could lie with the wiring, connectors, or control unit.
In rare cases, both DRLs might fail at the same time. If this happens, it's unlikely that both LED modules would stop working simultaneously, and the issue could be linked to a control module failure or a deeper electrical problem. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a professional to run a more in-depth diagnostic check.
By addressing these potential issues—whether it’s a fuse, LED module, or control unit—you can quickly identify the problem and restore your Audi’s DRLs to proper working condition.
Why Do Daytime Running Lights Fail?
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) can fail for several reasons, and understanding the cause is key to ensuring a proper fix. One of the most common reasons for DRL failure is external damage. This can occur due to accidents, road debris, or general wear and tear. Even minor impacts can damage the delicate LED components or wiring, causing the DRLs to stop functioning.
Another common cause of failure is exposure to the elements. Over time, water, dirt, or road salt can penetrate the headlamp assembly, corroding internal parts and leading to electrical failures. Poor sealing of the headlight housing can accelerate this process, especially in harsh weather conditions.
In some cases, the LED diode module simply reaches the end of its lifespan. Like any electrical component, the LED and its accompanying parts have a finite operating period. As the module ages, it may gradually lose brightness or fail altogether, triggering warning messages like "Left Side light/Daytime Running Light defective" or "Right Side light/Daytime Running Light defective" on your dashboard.
Regular inspection and maintenance can help identify these issues early, but when failure occurs, replacement is often the most practical solution.
How to Fix a Failed Daytime Running Light
If your DRL has failed, the most effective solution is a direct replacement of the faulty LED module. Fortunately, the process is straightforward and can often be done without professional assistance, allowing you to save money by performing the replacement yourself.
To replace the faulty module, simply remove the old part from the headlamp assembly and install the new one. No additional programming or coding is required, making it a quick and easy fix. This plug-and-play approach ensures that your DRLs are back in working order with minimal downtime.
For your convenience, Xenons4U offers direct replacements for both Left Right Side light Daytime Running Light defective:
Left side: B104612-B 90145442 82A998473 LED Module
Right side: B104613-B 90145443 82A998474 LED Module
This LED module is compatible with specific Audi A1 GB headlamps and models from 2018 to 2023, making it an ideal replacement part that maintains the integrity of your Audi’s lighting system.
The following Valeo part numbers confirm compatibility with this LED diode module for Audi A1 GB series:
- B104613-B
- 90145443
- B104612-B
- 90145442
The Audi part numbers listed below are specific identifiers for the B104613-B 90145443 module, confirming compatibility with the Audi A1 GB lighting systems:
- 82A 998 474
- 82A998474
- 82A 998 473
- 82A998473
This module is designed to work with specific LED headlamps on the Audi A1 GB series, such as:
- 82A.941.034.E 82A941034E
- Valeo 90151293
- 82A.941.033.E 82A941033E
- Valeo 90151292
This LED module is a direct replacement for various Audi A1 GB models, spanning model years 2018 to 2023, and compatible with different trims and specifications:
- Audi A1 GB Sportback
- Audi A1 Citycarver
- Years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
- Engine Variants: 25 1.9, 30 1.0, 3.5 1.5, 40 2.0 TFSI Petrol Gasoline
- Transmission Options: S tronic automatic, manual
- Trim Level: S-Line
Check out the replacement part, car model, and part number so you can replace the faulty part with the perfect replacements available at Xenons4u.
At Xenons4U, we offer a wide range of replacement parts for Audi A1 and other vehicles, all at competitive prices. You can browse our shop for the exact LED diode modules you need, and with our fast delivery service across the UK, you’ll have your car back on the road in no time.
