JustCarsForum - Your Ultimate Automotive Community

Greetings, everybody. Apologies for my little expertise in automotive issues. I would really appreciate any assistance you can provide.

I own a 2013 2.0 TDI A5 black edition vehicle, and my air conditioning system has been non-functional for an extended period of time. When the AC light is on, it remains illuminated, but the air does not emit a very chilly temperature. When I activate the fans without pressing the AC button, I notice a decrease in temperature, resulting in cooler air.

My father brought it to a mechanic where he had it recharged with petrol, which he believed was necessary to test the air conditioning. However, even after this procedure, the air conditioning still did not produce cold air. According to my father, he then established a connection to the diagnostic system and retrieved an error number indicating a problem with the AC sensor. Although I don't have the specific code, the individual said that the AC sensor requires replacement.

I have seen YouTube videos that demonstrate the precise placement of the sensor, which is situated beneath the front grill.
I have a question about the sensor. I am rather perplexed by the process of unscrewing the sensor, since I have come across information suggesting the possibility of gas or fluid leakage, as well as potential issues related to voltage. Is there anybody who has experience with replacing the AC sensor on the A5 and would be willing to assist me?

Apologies for any seeming lack of intelligence, but I am determined to avoid being overcharged at a garage, thus I would want to do the task myself.


Thank you

The sensor is located posterior to the front grill. You may remove it with a spanner or a deep socket. When you remove it, a little quantity of gas may be released. However, there is a schrader valve (similar to a bike tire valve) located underneath the sensor to prevent the complete escape of gas.

Thank you for your prompt response, AudiLover2003

Am I correct in understanding that I may just switch off the automobile and proceed to remove the component without any necessary preparations or inspections? I was concerned about the possibility of exacerbating the situation by removing it.

You will be OK. Due to limited space, it may be necessary to use grips to spin the spanner in the narrow gap behind the grill. The sensors are susceptible to malfunction.

Thank you, your input is much valued. I have seen many YouTube videos that I will adhere to. I will inspect the region to determine the specific component number I want, and thereafter proceed to place an order for the same item.

Congratulations, RSK, on a job well done. You are receiving really valuable guidance from one of the most intelligent individuals in the field of technology on this platform! Congratulations for a job well executed! Proceed with caution, since it is possible that the bolt has never been removed before. Consider applying a little coating of WD40 or a similar lubricant on the bolt. Wishing you the best of luck!

Thank you everyone for your responses. I am now facing a challenge with removing these black rubber screws. Despite my web research, I have been unable to discover a solution. I assume they are made of rubber. I attempted to dislodge them with a screwdriver, but they remain immovable. I have read that they could be subjected to pressure in the centre. However, I have attempted this as well, but I have not been successful in achieving any progress.

I remember these plastic coverings. The region around the sensor is quite constrained, and you are likely to get significant abrasion on your knuckle. To alleviate this issue, I have acquired a "Crow foot" spanner to facilitate the task.
It is advisable to replace the O-ring at the same time, since the sensor does not include the O-ring.

Thank you for your input. Despite using significant power, including the use of a flathead screwdriver, I have been unable in removing the loads. Regrettably, I have been unable to discover any internet resources pertaining to the specific design of these loads.