How to Reset an Audi A4 2017: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Resetting a 2017 Audi A4 usually means clearing service reminders, rebooting the MMI (infotainment) system, or performing a basic ECU reset by disconnecting the battery; each has its own method and level of risk, and should be done carefully to avoid losing settings or masking real mechanical issues. This article explains what “reset” can mean in different contexts, when you should consider doing it, and how to perform the most common resets safely and legally.

What “Reset” Means on a 2017 Audi A4

Owners often say “reset my Audi A4” when they actually want to do one of several different things. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the safest method and avoid unintended consequences such as losing personal data or hiding a genuine fault code.

Common Types of Resets on a 2017 Audi A4

The following list outlines the main types of resets that apply to a 2017 Audi A4, and what each one actually affects on the vehicle.

• Service interval reset: Clears or adjusts the “Service due” or “Oil change due” reminder in the instrument cluster.
• MMI (infotainment) soft reset: Reboots the multimedia system when it freezes, lags, or malfunctions.
• MMI factory reset: Erases personal data and restores infotainment settings to factory default.
• Driver‑assistance and comfort setting reset: Restores default settings for items like lane assist, parking sensors, or climate profiles.
• Battery/ECU power reset: Disconnecting the 12V battery briefly to clear some temporary glitches in control modules.
• Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) clearing: Erasing fault codes with a scan tool such as OBD‑II, VCDS, or ODIS.

Treat each type of reset as a separate operation: some are designed for owner use (like service interval and MMI reset), while others, like clearing fault codes or performing an ECU adaptation reset, are best left to a trained technician with proper diagnostic equipment.

Resetting the Service / Oil Change Reminder

On a 2017 Audi A4 (B9 platform), the oil change and inspection reminders are controlled via the MMI and the instrument cluster. You should only reset these after actually performing the service; clearing them without servicing the car can lead to missed maintenance and potential mechanical damage.

Using the MMI to Reset the Oil Change Interval

These steps explain how to clear or adjust the oil change reminder through the car’s infotainment system, which is the most common owner‑level reset.

1. Switch the ignition on, but do not start the engine. Make sure the instrument cluster and MMI screen are powered.
2. Use the MENU or HOME button on the center console to open the main MMI menu.
3. Select Car (or Vehicle, depending on regional software) using the rotary knob or touch controls.
4. Navigate to Service & checks (or Servicing & checks in some markets).
5. Choose Service intervals. The display should show remaining mileage/time to the next oil change and inspection.
6. Select Reset oil change interval (or similar wording). Confirm when the system asks if you really want to reset.
7. Verify that the new interval is displayed, typically resetting to the manufacturer‑recommended mileage/time value for your market.

Once completed, the oil service reminder in the cluster should disappear, and the countdown to the next service will restart. If the reminder reappears immediately, there may be a configuration issue or a fault code that needs to be checked with a diagnostic tool.

Resetting the Inspection / Service Reminder

The inspection or general service reminder is often separate from the oil change reminder, especially in markets with time‑ or mileage‑based inspections.

1. With the ignition on, open the MMI Car / Vehicle menu as described earlier.
2. Go again to Service & checks > Service intervals.
3. Check if there is a separate line for Inspection or Service interval.
4. If a reset option is available (for example Reset inspection interval), select it and confirm.
5. Confirm that the updated interval is now displayed and that the dashboard inspection symbol or message clears after cycling the ignition.

If your MMI does not show a separate reset option for inspection, that function may be locked to workshop tools in your region; in that case, an Audi dealer or independent shop with VCDS/ODIS can perform the reset after service.

Resetting / Rebooting the MMI Infotainment System

The 2017 A4’s MMI can sometimes freeze, respond slowly, or show errors after software glitches or Bluetooth issues. A soft reset reboots the system without erasing saved stations or navigation data, similar to restarting a smartphone.

MMI Soft Reset (Reboot)

This procedure restarts the infotainment unit only, and is usually safe to perform whenever the screen or audio becomes unresponsive.

1. Ensure the vehicle is safely parked with the ignition on or engine running.
2. Locate the volume/power knob on or near the center console (just ahead of the shifter in most trims).
3. Press and hold the volume/power knob for approximately 10–15 seconds.
4. Watch for the MMI screen to go black; then release the knob.
5. Wait for the Audi logo to appear and the system to reboot. This may take 30–60 seconds.
6. Check that audio, navigation, Bluetooth, and other functions are operational again.

A soft reset will not delete user data. If the problems persist after multiple reboots, there may be a deeper software or hardware issue, and you should consider professional diagnostics or a software update from a dealer.

MMI Factory Reset (Restoring Default Settings)

A factory reset of the MMI removes most personalization—paired phones, navigation favorites, some online services data—and is typically used before selling the car or when troubleshooting stubborn software conflicts.

1. With ignition on, open the MMI main menu using the MENU or HOME button.
2. Select Settings (or Setup MMI, depending on software version).
3. Scroll to and select Factory settings or Restore factory settings.
4. Choose the scope of the reset. You may see options like:
   

   • Radio/media
   • Navigation
   • Telephone & Bluetooth
   • Vehicle settings
   • Reset all

5. Select the desired category or Reset all and confirm when prompted. The system will warn that personal data will be erased.
6. Wait for the process to complete; the MMI may restart automatically.

After a factory reset, you will need to re‑pair phones, re‑enter navigation favorites, and adjust sound and vehicle preferences again. Use this reset sparingly, and only after backing up any important information where possible.

Resetting Individual Vehicle and Driver‑Assist Settings

Many functions in the 2017 Audi A4—such as driver profiles, climate preferences, and driver‑assist configurations—can be returned to default via menu options, without affecting other systems.

Resetting Driver Profiles and Convenience Settings

The next list explains how to revert driver profile and convenience settings, which is helpful if multiple people have changed configurations or if you want to start fresh with a single profile.

1. Open the MMI Car / Vehicle menu.
2. Select Individual settings, Driver profiles, or Vehicle settings depending on your software layout.
3. Look for options like:
   

   • Seat settings
   • Exterior lighting
   • Central locking
   • Climate control
   • Driving mode / Audi drive select

4. Within each category, scroll to a Reset to default or Factory settings option if available.
5. Confirm the reset for that category, then repeat for other categories as needed.

This targeted approach lets you undo unwanted changes without touching the infotainment system as a whole or clearing service and fault data, preserving the rest of your personalized setup.

Resetting Driver‑Assist Features (Lane Assist, Parking Sensors, etc.)

Driver‑assist systems such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise, and parking sensors often store user preferences that can be reset to factory profiles without affecting other components.

1. Access the Car / Vehicle menu on the MMI.
2. Navigate to Driver assistance or a similarly named submenu.
3. Select the system you wish to reset:
   

   • Lane assist
   • Side assist
   • Audi pre sense
   • Parking aid
   • Adaptive cruise control (if equipped)

4. Within that system’s settings, look for a Default or Reset settings option.
5. Confirm the reset and check the on‑screen description to ensure it matches your preference for warnings and intervention levels.

Resetting these settings can resolve annoying chimes or unexpected steering corrections that may have been activated by previous customization, and it ensures you return to manufacturer‑recommended baseline behavior.

Battery Disconnect / ECU Power Reset

Some owners try to “reset the car” by disconnecting the 12‑volt battery, which can clear certain temporary faults and force some control modules to reboot. This approach should be used with caution on modern vehicles like the 2017 A4, which contain many interconnected electronic systems.

When and Why to Use a Battery Reset

The list below explains typical, limited scenarios where a brief battery disconnect might be considered, and why it’s not a general cure‑all for warning lights.

• Persistent but minor glitches: Infotainment anomalies or intermittent electronic misbehavior after other resets fail.
• Module lock‑ups: Rare instances where a control module appears unresponsive yet shows no stored serious faults.
• Resetting adaptive values: For some modules, power loss can clear certain learned behaviors, though many still retain data.
• After certain repairs: Technicians may disconnect the battery as a safety step during work; the subsequent power‑up can mimic a reset.

Because disconnecting the battery can also erase window and sunroof limits, radio presets, and force systems to recalibrate, it should not be your first step, particularly if warning lights indicate real mechanical or safety issues.

How to Safely Disconnect and Reconnect the Battery

If you decide a battery reset is appropriate, follow a methodical process to minimize the risk of damage or data loss. Always prioritize safety and consider professional help if you are unsure.

1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and switch the ignition off. Remove the key or turn off the start/stop button.
2. Open the trunk, where the 12‑volt battery is typically located on many 2017 A4 models (check your manual, as configurations vary by market and engine).
3. Wait several minutes (at least 3–5) after shutting off the car to allow modules to go to sleep; this reduces the chance of data corruption.
4. Using appropriate tools and safety equipment (gloves, eye protection), loosen the negative (–) battery terminal first and carefully disconnect it from the post.
5. If needed, you may also disconnect the positive (+) terminal, but this is usually not necessary for a basic reset; always avoid contact between the cable and any metal bodywork.
6. Leave the battery disconnected for about 10–15 minutes to allow residual charge to dissipate in electronic modules.
7. Reconnect the positive (+) terminal if you removed it, then reconnect the negative (–) terminal last. Tighten securely.
8. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle. You may see various warning lights initially; many will clear after a short drive as systems recalibrate.
9. Reinitialize systems if needed (for example, one‑touch windows may need to be re‑taught by fully lowering and raising each window while holding the switch).

After a battery reset, monitor the dashboard closely: if major warnings persist (for ABS, airbag, steering, or engine), do not rely on further resets—have the car scanned and repaired by a professional technician.

Clearing Fault Codes and Warning Lights

Owners often want to “reset” the car because of warning lights. While some minor alerts will disappear after the underlying issue is fixed and a few drive cycles pass, error codes stored in the ECU usually require a scan tool to read and clear properly.

Using an OBD‑II Scanner or Professional Tool

The following steps describe the general process of using a diagnostic scanner to address fault codes, which should always be done with a focus on the underlying cause rather than simply erasing warnings.

1. Plug an OBD‑II scanner into the diagnostic port under the dashboard (driver’s side, near the steering column).
2. Switch the ignition to ON without starting the engine, unless the scanner specifically instructs otherwise.
3. Use the scanner or software (for example, VCDS for VW/Audi, or a professional ODIS system at a dealer) to read stored and pending codes.
4. Note down all codes and associated freeze‑frame data, such as engine speed, temperature, and voltage at the time of the fault.
5. Diagnose and repair the cause of the code—this could be anything from a faulty sensor to a wiring issue or low fluid level.
6. Only after the fault is corrected, use the scanner’s Clear codes or Erase DTCs function.
7. Cycle the ignition and test drive the car. If the code returns, further diagnosis is required; do not continue to erase codes without addressing the problem.

Modern safety‑critical systems—such as airbags, brakes, and stability control—depend on accurate fault data. Repeatedly clearing codes to hide warning lights is unsafe, and in some jurisdictions may even violate vehicle inspection or roadworthiness regulations.

When You Should Avoid DIY Resets

While many resets are designed to be owner‑friendly, there are clear situations where trying to reset your 2017 Audi A4 at home can be risky or counterproductive.

Signs You Need Professional Help Instead

The next list highlights warning signs that indicate a reset is not enough and that a trained technician should inspect the car before further action.

• Persistent major warning lights: ABS, ESC, airbag, steering, or engine warnings that return immediately after resets.
• Driving symptoms: Rough running, poor braking, steering issues, or transmission problems alongside warning lights.
• Repeated MMI failures: Infotainment reboots, black screens, or loss of sound that continue after soft and factory resets.
• Electrical smells or heat: Any burning smell or unusual heat near the dashboard, center console, or battery area.
• After collision or flooding: Safety systems and electronics may be compromised and must be professionally assessed.

In these circumstances, forcing additional resets can obscure crucial diagnostic information or allow a serious fault to go unaddressed, which may compromise safety or lead to higher repair costs.

Summary

Resetting a 2017 Audi A4 is not a single, universal procedure but a collection of distinct operations: resetting service and oil change reminders via the MMI, rebooting or factory‑resetting the infotainment system, restoring driver‑assist and comfort settings, performing a cautious battery disconnect for a full electronic power‑cycle, and clearing fault codes with appropriate diagnostic tools.

Use owner‑level resets—such as service interval adjustments and MMI soft resets—when you’ve performed the relevant maintenance or need to resolve minor glitches. Treat battery disconnects and code clearing with caution, and avoid using them to mask persistent warnings or mechanical symptoms. When in doubt, or when major safety systems are involved, seek professional diagnostics so that any reset is the final step in a proper repair, not a substitute for it.