New member (Audi A3) 2.0 FSI (53) SAFE mode?

**Andi1983** · 17-12-2015,11:58 AM

Hi, I am new to this forum and urgently need help??

I own an Audi A3 2.0L SPORT FSI (53 plate)

Struggled to start Tuesday morning then whilst driving it locked into SAFE mode, lights etc worked, central locking worked, couldn't drive above 30mph and electric windows wouldn't work.

Obviously something wrong and LIMP mode applied to protect engine.

However parked car up and when I returned car wouldn't fire up.

All lights appear as normal on cluster, SAFE on mileage clock.

Turn the key, car fires up and runs for about 1-2 seconds then cuts out.

Called breakdown, 1st guy done a diagnostic -NO CODES told me possibly fuel pump or filter.

However due to low profiles wouldn't fit on tow trailer so had to wait for a bigger truck to tow home. 2nd guy does diagnostics -NO CODES he mentioned cluster?

I questioned battery as the dash showed low charge? Both said battery was fine! Taken battery off to test charge at home, it appears not to be holding its charge.

Would a broken battery cause the car to go into SAFE mode?

I have read a few threads on here and seems it could be anything!

How on earth do I find out what's wrong without replacing everything?

TIA Andi.

**Sam** · 17-12-2015,12:10 PM

Welcome to VWAF

**zollaf** · 17-12-2015,12:16 PM

welcome..
first off you need a code read. i know you have had one already, with a generic code reader. vcds will likely find a code for you.

**Andi1983** · 17-12-2015,12:28 PM

How do I find someone with vcds? It's actually been read 3 times and nothing came up?

**Eshrules** · 17-12-2015,12:31 PM

Originally Posted by Andi1983

How do I find someone with vcds? It's actually been read 3 times and nothing came up?

Welcome to VWAF - it's customary to introduce yourself in the new members section and then post a thread with details of your issue in the relevant section.

I've moved your thread accordingly.

A main dealer or a good independent garage should have VCDS or something similar (main dealer will have their own software but will provide a print out of codes).

**Sam** · 17-12-2015,12:34 PM

Is it an 8L or an 8P A3?

I will move this from the Newbie/Welcome yourself only section to the correct A3 section.

**Andi1983** · 17-12-2015,12:37 PM

Hmm the issue I have is I can't move it. Was hoping there was some 'HACKS' I could try to trick it out of SAFE mode... as don't really want the expense of paying for another diagnostic for no codes to come up, especially right on Christmas.

**Andi1983** · 17-12-2015,12:42 PM

I am so sorry for putting post in wrong place, I couldn't find the right 1...

Its a 8P

Sorry again

**Eshrules** · 17-12-2015,02:12 PM

Originally Posted by Andi1983

Hmm the issue I have is I can't move it. Was hoping there was some 'HACKS' I could try to trick it out of SAFE mode... as don't really want the expense of paying for another diagnostic for no codes to come up, especially right on Christmas.

The thing about 'safe' mode is exactly that - I'm unaware of any hacks to fool the car into thinking it's ok so it can be driven.

You must get a proper diagnostic scan completed by a garage that's able to interpret them and fix the fault - ignoring faults will cost you more in the long run, Christmas or not.

**Sam** · 17-12-2015,02:40 PM

Is the car new to you? Do you have a full service history and/or guaranteed mileage?

SAFE means the immo has kicked in.

Either your clocks have pooped themselves, a wire/harness has come adrift or someone has been in the clocks previously.

OR your key needs recoding.

OR....

Get a scan done, then we'll know more.