Audi S3 Tailgate Sensor Malfunction Causing Half-Opening

Had the same problem with a 2015 Audi A3 Sportback. The power tailgate would stop midway and the vehicle sensor system kept showing errors. The issue turned out to be a faulty hall sensor connection at the tailgate hinge. The original wiring harness had worn through from repeated opening and closing movements, causing intermittent signal failures. The repair involved replacing the complete wiring harness assembly and recalibrating the open tailgate parameters. Not a major mechanical issue, but requires specific diagnostic equipment to properly reset the system. This is actually a known weak point on several Audi models from that generation. The wire bundle can get stressed over time where it flexes at the hinge point. Best to have it checked early when symptoms first appear, as continuing to operate with damaged wiring can potentially affect other tailgate components. The fix has been reliable since, no further issues with the automatic tailgate operation after 2 years. Recommend having a qualified shop diagnose it properly rather than attempting DIY repairs, as the calibration requires dealer-level equipment.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My power tailgate is now working perfectly after getting it fixed. The sensor wiring replacement and recalibration sorted out the issue completely. Mind sharing what the repair cost was in your case? Also curious if youve had any other sensor fault issues come up since the fix? My S3 is running great otherwise but wondering if I should watch out for anything specific.

Just got around to seeing your follow-up. The repair cost for my hall sensor issue was 95 Euro, which covered fixing the faulty cable connection. The mechanic found the wiring had worn through at the hinge point, but luckily the sensor itself was still good. Since having the power tailgate repaired, I havent experienced any other sensor fault problems. The automatic tailgate has been working flawlessly for over 2 years now. The vehicle sensor system hasnt shown any error codes either. For preventive maintenance, I do regular checks of the rubber seals around the tailgate to keep water out of the electrical components. This helps avoid future wiring issues. The repair shop mentioned this is good practice for keeping the system running smoothly. The initial fault symptoms you described were identical to mine, so Im glad you also got it sorted. These automatic tailgate systems are generally quite reliable once the wiring is properly fixed and calibrated.

Thanks everyone for the detailed responses. Just wanted to close this thread with my repair experience. Took it to my mechanic last week and the power tailgate diagnosis confirmed the worn sensor wiring. Total repair came to 280 Euro including parts and labor. More than I hoped but less than I feared. The repair involved replacing the complete wiring harness and recalibrating the vehicle sensor system. Mechanic showed me where the original wires had frayed at the hinge point, pretty clear wear pattern there. Automatic tailgate now opens and closes perfectly. No more error codes or partial opening issues. Really glad I got it sorted before any additional damage occurred. For anyone else facing similar issues, definitely worth getting it checked out early. The diagnostic and repair process was straightforward once in qualified hands.