Dashboard / Auto Gearbox problems

[auiron]

I would be very grateful for any ideas on a problem with my Audi A4 1.9TDI 90BHP Auto 1996N Saloon 195,000 miles.

Before the main problem arose the car sometimes only operated in 1st and 2nd gears but would recover to operate properly before the same problem started again.

The following problem happened suddenly.

The car now only operates in 3rd gear, the reverse gear is O.K.
The airbag warning light goes off only after the engine has been running for two minutes.
The rev counter isn't operating and the warning lights flash and the dash gives the three warning bleeps.
The air conditioning will not start but blowers and heater are O.K.

Apart from the above the car is perfectly alright in all other respects and all fuses have been checked on the drivers side. The water temp guage is at normal and the oil levels etc., are all correct.

[nai]

try checking for a bad earth could cause these problems sometimes.

[adamss24]

Have the car checked for fault codes as the gearbox its in SAFE MODE when its stuck in third and will be jerky and noisy as well.

[auiron]

Thanks for your replies, will look into further, cheers.
I do recollect there were a few electrical type noises slightly in front of the gear change lever, on the last journey that the car operated properly. The next time it was started it went into safe mode and lights flashed on dash etc.,
The car is a standby car that now remains standing by.

[auiron]

Thank you both for your answers.

[auiron]

The problems were caused by severe corrosion of the main wiring loom and water entering the ECU.

Audi A4's, and in particular those registered "M to S", are prone to water damage due to leaks into the ventilation system from the engine compartment.

These leaks may be caused by worn seals around the pollen/cabin filter combined with obstructed drain holes, particularly under the cars battery.

An older car can be considered a right-off as far as main dealer prices are concerned. Consider a second-hand ECU, ( making sure the ECU has the correct number) although there is the cost of it being set by Audi's at some cost - no way out unfortunately.

The main wiring loom needs to be re-prepared and due to costs, needs to be done by an excellent DIY person or preferably an off-duty car electrical bod.