Removing and installing dash panel insert: Audi A2

🧭 Before you start

Start the J285 replacement routine if needed, switch off the ignition and set the steering column low and back. Remove the instrument cowl, the surround and the insert bolts, lift out the insert and unplug it. Refit by plugging in, fixing the harness at its clamp, seating the insert, applying locking fluid to the upper bolt and tightening the bolts to 1.5 Nm.

Fits: Audi A2 (8Z)

Don't miss

• Launch the J285 replacement function in guided functions before swapping the insert.
• Re-attach all cable ties in their original positions.
• If the cowl will not release, free the retainer tab fasteners from the footwell.
• Apply locking fluid to the upper securing bolt; insert bolts take 1.5 Nm.

Written for this job from the workshop steps below · TorqFix editorial.

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📋 Procedure

1. If the dash panel insert with control unit in dash panel insert J285 is to be replaced, go into the "“Guided functions”" and select the "“Replacement”" function for J285.
2. Switch off ignition and take out ignition key. [Note: All cable ties unfastened or cut open on removing are to be reattached in same position on installation.Removal of dash panel insert does not involve taking out steering wheel.]
3. Move the steering wheel down and to the rear as far as possible, making use of the full range of the steering column adjuster.
4. Remove bolts (1).
5. Carefully remove the instrument cowl (2) upwards. If necessary, lever it off the dash panel using removal wedge3409. [Note: If the instrument cowl cannot be detached in the manner described, the fasteners of the retainer tabs (arrows) must additionally be released, working from the footwell. For this purpose, proceed as follows:Turn light switch to "“0”" position.Press light switch (arrow 1) and, at the same time, turn it to the right (arrow 2).Hold the switch in this position and pull it out of the switch housing (arrow 3).Remove the driver's storage compartment 68.]

6. Pull off surround (1) from dash panel insert in (direction of arrow).
7. Remove bolts (3).
8. Remove the dash panel insert upwards.
9. If fitted, cut the cable tie on the back of the dash panel insert.
10. Unplug the connector at the dash panel insert. To do so, press the catch (1), turn the bracket in (arrow direction) and detach the connector.
11. Release the retaining clips (arrow) on left and right of dash panel insert.
12. Detach instrument trim (1) from dash panel insert. [Note: Re-attach all cable ties in the same locations on installation.]
13. Plug in the connectors and fix the wiring harness in position on the back of the dash panel insert at the clamp (arrow).
14. Apply locking fluid when inserting upper securing bolt (3).

Other AUDI procedures

• Removing and installing toothed belt – Audi · 56 torque figures
• Removing engine – Audi A8 D3 · 41 torque figures
• Removing camshaft timing chain from camshafts – Audi A6/A7 C7 · 38 torque figures
• Installing engine – Audi A8 D4 · 36 torque figures
• Removing and installing camshaft timing chain · 29 torque figures