Removing the shift console on a B6 Quattro TIP

[MikeWire]

With the recent rash of threads regarding Tip shift console and 'PRNDS' problems, I though I would do a quick writeup on how to get into the shift console on a B6 A4 Quattro Tiptronic (not CVT Auto). Here's some instructions, but remember your car may differ slightly, and this is only a guide and should be used for reference - don't hold me responsible for any mistakes you make or anything you break.

Tools needed:
1 flathead screwdriver
Two hands

Your shift console should look something like this:

I have the SPP Tip Mod, so if you have the stock knob yours will look different:

1.jpg

Turn the car ON (don't start it) and depress the pedal to unlock the shift interlock, and slide the shifter all the way to "S"

2.jpg

Now, remove the shift knob. If you don't know how, SEARCH first - there are many many threads on the process of removing the knob, and I won't get into it here.

EDIT: Use this thread http://www.audizine.com/forum/showpo...6&postcount=14 for reference

Then grab the front of the shifter surround and pull up and back towards yourself, then pick up and move the rim out of the way.

3.jpg

Now you should have the trim removed and the shift assembly exposed

4.jpg

Using a flat blade screwdriver or similar, push the tab (pictured) in the outward direction, while gently pulling upward on the shift assembly. Do this for each tab - there is a tab on each corner of the assembly, for a total of 4 tabs.

5.jpg

[MikeWire]

Now unplug the connection to the circuit board by pressing in on the connector tab and pulling in the direction of the arrow

6a.jpg

With the shift console assembly removed, this is what you should have:

6b.jpg

Now, separate the shift console trim from the assembly by using a flat screwdriver to press in each tab while gently separating the two halves. There are four tabs to press in and release - two on each side of the trim - be sure to press on the white tabs, NOT the grey tabs.

7.jpg

With the two halves split open, you have the trim on the left and the shift assembly on the right. You can clearly see the magnets that control the Tip selections and +/- controls, as well as another magnet which IIRC tells the car what gear is selected.

If this part is broken, genuinevwaudiparts.com has the part you need here

8.jpg

Inside the trim should be the printed circuit board which contains the Hall sensors for the Tip controls and gear selector.

9.jpg

[MikeWire]

To remove the plastic display panel insert from the shift trim, press on the grey tabs and pull the insert with the shift letters on it out of the assembly:

11.jpg

I removed the assembly, and then took the time to do a quick refinish with some 180 grit sand paper, then switched to some 380 grit to give it a satin finish look:

refinish-13.jpg

refinish-14.jpg

refinish-15.jpg

After everything is put together you can put only the circuit board back together and makesure everything works. When it's all working, put it back together. Installation is the reverse of removal.

12.jpg

[MikeWire]

Reserved for more info if needed.