Experiencing a persistent “top is not secure” warning light on your 2006 A4 Convertible can be frustrating, especially when the convertible top appears to be fully closed and latched. This article delves into diagnosing and potentially resolving this common issue, focusing on the fault code 01995 and its implications for your Audi A4 convertible roof system.
When your Audi A4 convertible displays the “top is not secure” message, it’s often accompanied by other symptoms. You might notice that while the convertible top operates and physically closes without apparent problems, the warning light on your dashboard remains illuminated. Furthermore, the automatic window closing feature, which should activate after the roof is fully secured, may fail to engage. Interestingly, the error might disappear when the top is completely open, suggesting an issue specific to the closed position. In such cases, a diagnostic scan using VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) is crucial to pinpoint the root cause.
Often, a VCDS scan will reveal the fault code “01995 Convertible Top Lock Switch (F295) Closed 008 Implausible Signal”. This code indicates a problem with the Convertible Top Lock Switch (F295), suggesting that the system is not registering the top as securely latched, even when it appears to be. Another related, though less frequent, fault code, “02000 – Switch Position 008-Implausible Signal Intermittent,” might also appear, hinting at an inconsistent signal from a switch within the convertible top mechanism.
One potential cause, particularly relevant to the 2006 Audi A4 convertible and similar models, lies in the convertible top latch mechanism itself. According to automotive repair insights, play in the motor to latch mechanism located in the windshield header can lead to this “implausible signal” error. This mechanical play can prevent the F295 switch from accurately sensing the locked position, even when the latch appears engaged.
A crucial first step in addressing this issue is to inspect the convertible top latch mechanism physically. Check the bolts securing the latch to the windshield header, both on the driver and passenger sides. Loose bolts can introduce play in the system and disrupt the proper functioning of the lock switch. In one instance, a missing bolt was discovered on the passenger side windshield header, and tightening all latch bolts significantly improved the situation, even resolving an intermittent “02000” fault code.
However, if tightening the bolts doesn’t fully resolve the “01995” error, the issue might stem from wear or damage within the latch mechanism itself. Fortunately, a repair kit is available from Audi (part number 8H0 898 010) specifically designed to address play in the motor to latch mechanism. This kit includes a spline that rectifies the play, allowing for proper switch operation and resolving the “implausible signal” issue.
To further diagnose the problem, VCDS measuring blocks can provide valuable data. Specifically, examining Address 26: Auto Roof, Group 001: Convertible Top Status (Actual) can reveal discrepancies in switch readings. In a correctly functioning system with the roof closed, the “Switches & Positions I” reading should ideally be “11011010” according to Ross-Tech Wiki documentation on “Electrical Power Top Closed – Measuring Block Group 1 (Roof Closed)”. Deviations from this reading can confirm a switch malfunction or misalignment within the convertible top system.
If your VCDS reading differs from the expected “11011010” and you’ve already tightened the latch bolts, the 8H0 898 010 repair kit is a strong contender for resolving the “top is not secure” warning on your 2006 A4 convertible. This repair kit directly addresses the potential play in the latch mechanism motor, which is a known cause for the F295 switch implausible signal. By addressing this mechanical issue, you can restore the proper functioning of your convertible top system and eliminate the persistent warning light and related window closure problem. Consider this repair kit as a targeted solution to get your Audi A4 convertible roof operating smoothly and securely once again.
