Electric tailgate adjustment

[Michael Hobson]

I have had my 2006 A6 Allroad 3.0tdi for nearly 14 years. Until last year the tailgate worked perfectly, although from time to time I had to replace the gas struts. Last year it stopped working even with new struts, I even tried stronger struts without effect. I have messed with it so much, including trying second hand motor units, have reverted to the original ones. They are brushless motors so I did not expect them to fail especially as they only work for a few seconds. Now if I use the door switch the tailgate will just raise an inch or two then close, if I use the boot button and help it the tailgate will rise, much higher than it used to. When I press the close button it may close correctly or it may drop a couple of inches and go back up. When it does close, after closing there are a number of very loud clicks. Is there something I can do without taking it to Audi, who might charge a fortune, I am a pensioner and have to be careful. Some knowledgeable advice would be much appreciated.

 

[siLc]

These motors can fail. I retrofitted mine but defitted after 6 years because it started doing the exact same thing and one of the motors electrically failed in the end. The motors are the same between A6 C6, C7 and even Passat B7 with slight changes. Chances are used motors are also worn and brand new ones obviously aren't economically viable.

You can physically remove the motors and replace the rear hatch striker with one from a non-electric hatch A6 C6 Avant. Probably doesn't even need coding anything out.

 

[Michael Hobson]

But there are adjustments possible using VCDS, I would like to know what they are, (fully open setting, fully closed setting, clutch etc.) Brushless motors in other applications can last thousands of hours and when they come to their end the cause would normally be worn bearings or thrown solder from the windings, but only operating for a few seconds in a car trunk, surely they would not get hot enough to throw solder, I cannot detect wear on the bearings

 

[siLc]

The opening and then slamming back shut happens only when weather starts to warm up, yes?

You don't even need VCDS to adjust. Open the lid as much as you need and stop the lid by pressing the lid button. Hold the lid button down for a few seconds - it learns the desired opening position.

 

[TTT]

Brushless motors

Are these tailgates with brushless motors?

 

[Michael Hobson]

No sign of brushes, and on an Audi as old as mine the variable height adjustment available on later models does not exist on mine.