Instrument Cluster Removal?
 

Hi all
Could anyone advise on removing the instrument cluster please? I need to send it off to get the LCD screens repaired (they pixelate when warm).
I only have the most basic of skills (like virtually none apart from turning a screwdriver!) and I was going to get my local garage to remove it, but then I saw the below video on youtube which, if it is indeed a similar procedure on an A8 (the video is an A4, I couldn't find a specific A8 one), even I should be able to manage it (and save a few quid in labour)!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYwNJxI3oxg
Is there anything I should know about removing an A8 cluster that may differ from the A4 before attempting this myself?
Many thanks in advance for any advice :-)

It's not the same on the '8, but it is very simple.

Steering column all the way out and down.

You need to remove the 2 rectangular rubber bungs to the lower edge of the cluster, which are obvious when you look for them. These cover screws, which then need to be removed.

Gently pull the cluster towards you (worth covering the steering column with a towel if you're ham-fisted)

If the cluster hasn't been removed before you may need a pair of side cutters to remove some cable ties holding wiring to the back of the cluster and impeding removal (most will have been removed at some point so probably not an issue)

Unclip the coloured levers on the wiring plugs and they will free off the plugs.

That's it!

Thanks a lot Adrian, I appreciate the instructions. It sounds simple enough even for me to be able to manage. What could possibly go wrong! ;-)

It's worth having a spare set of eyes with a torch who can take a peek at the back as you're sliding it out, and deal with the wiring removal side while you support it

I'll second this. Its very easy to damage the column cover while you're distracted round the back of the cluster with the plugs.

Thanks again. I had a go, but fell at the very first hurdle! Steering wheel all the way out and down fine, but just cannot see two rubber bungs anywhere [feeling very stupid] :Confused:
Can anyone please point me in the right direct direction??
Do I need to take the plastic centre section off first? If so how do I do that? I tried giving it a gentle pull in case it would easily pop off but it didn't and I didn't want to break it!

It's easy, if I can do it, anyone can!

See those rectangular serated bits to the left and right of the buttons on the bottom edge of the cluster, they pop out with a small flat edged tool or screwdriver, you'll find the screws beneath them +++

Found 'em and mission complete!! Thanks so much for all the help, much appreciated!
It did have some cable ties that I had to snip. Are they essential when refitting?

No, they're just part of the assembly process, they serve no purpose other than keeping the wires tidy, so no need to replace them

Oh dear, disappointing news from BBA Reman - they diagnosed a fault, but say it is not repairable :-( They waived the test fee and are sending the unit back free of charge, which is good of them.

Could anyone advise if I have any options from here please? What if I bought a whole used instrument cluster (there's one on eBay for about £50) to replace the existing one. Could the mileage on that cluster then be reprogrammed to match the old one? Is there anything I would need to know in order to make this work? Would a replacement cluster even work at all? Thanks :-)