Where the Fuse Box Is Located in the Audi A4
The main fuse boxes in most Audi A4 models are located (1) on the left end of the dashboard behind a side cover, accessible when the driver’s door is open, and (2) in the engine bay, usually on the left (driver’s) side near the windshield under a plastic cover. Some versions also have a smaller fuse/relay panel in the luggage compartment. Exact locations can vary slightly by model year and market, but these are the primary areas to check.
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Understanding Fuse Box Locations Across Audi A4 Generations
The Audi A4 has been built over several generations, and while Audi has kept the general layout consistent, there are minor differences between model years, right-hand vs. left-hand drive, and sedan vs. Avant (wagon). Knowing the typical patterns helps owners quickly find the correct panel for troubleshooting electrical issues such as non‑working power windows, lights, or infotainment.
Typical Passenger Compartment Fuse Box Location
In most Audi A4 models from the B6 generation (early 2000s) through the current B9 generation, the main interior fuse panel is located at the end of the dashboard on the driver’s side. On left-hand‑drive cars, this is the left side of the dash; on right-hand‑drive cars, it is generally mirrored to the right.
Here is how the passenger-compartment fuse panel is typically arranged and accessed in an Audi A4:
- Located behind a rectangular or curved plastic cover at the side of the dashboard.
- Cover becomes visible only when the driver’s door (or front door on that side) is open.
- The cover usually pulls off by hand, occasionally requiring a gentle pry from a plastic trim tool.
- Inside, there is a grid of mini fuses labeled by number and a diagram in the owner’s manual showing what each fuse controls.
- Common circuits here: interior lights, infotainment system, power windows, mirrors, central locking, 12V sockets, and some safety and comfort systems.
Once the side cover is removed, owners can visually inspect fuses and replace them if blown, making this the primary location for many everyday electrical issues.
Engine Bay Fuse Box Location
The Audi A4 also includes one or more fuse and relay boxes under the hood. These generally protect higher‑current systems such as the cooling fans, ABS/ESP, starter, and certain engine-management components.
The following points describe where the engine-bay fuse box is most often found and what it typically contains:
- Usually located on the left (driver’s) side of the engine bay near the base of the windshield or along the firewall area.
- Covered by a black plastic lid that snaps or clips into place and may have fuse symbols embossed on top.
- Contains larger strip or “maxi” fuses, as well as relays for high‑demand systems.
- Access often requires opening retaining clips; some models also have adjacent relay carriers under the same or a neighboring cover.
- Circuits here typically include radiator fan, ABS/ESC, power steering (on some models), heated rear window, and other high‑amperage consumers.
Because these fuses handle critical power circuits, Audi generally recommends extra care when working in the engine-bay panel and consulting the exact fuse map for the car’s model year and engine type.
Trunk / Luggage Compartment Fuse and Relay Panels
On certain A4 variants—especially Avants and some models with premium audio, tow packages, or additional comfort electronics—Audi places auxiliary fuses or relays in the rear of the vehicle. This is less universal than the dash and engine-bay panels, but increasingly common in modern models with more equipment.
When equipped, the rear fuse/relay area usually has these characteristics:
- Located behind trim panels in the luggage compartment, commonly on the left-hand sidewall or under the floor area.
- May require removing a small access door or lifting carpeted panels to reach the fuse holders.
- Often associated with systems like the amplifier, trailer wiring module, electric tailgate, parking sensors, or auxiliary heaters.
- Fuse arrangement and presence of this panel can vary widely by trim level and options.
- Exact positions are shown in the individual vehicle’s owner’s manual or a label inside the access cover.
Owners who cannot find a fuse for rear‑mounted equipment in the front panels should check for this auxiliary board in the trunk area as a likely second step.
Generation‑by‑Generation Overview
While the general locations are consistent, a high-level breakdown by Audi A4 generation helps clarify minor differences and where owners of older vs. newer cars should look first.
B5 (Approx. 1994–2001)
The first-generation A4 (B5) set the basic pattern that Audi has largely continued.
In the B5 Audi A4, fuse and relay access typically appears in the following locations:
- Main interior fuse panel on the side of the dashboard, accessed with the driver’s door open.
- Additional relay and fuse carrier under the driver’s side dashboard (behind lower trim) for certain control modules.
- Engine-bay relay/fuse area near the firewall or battery, depending on engine and market.
- Some models with extra equipment include rear-located relays or fuses in the luggage area.
While the basic scheme is similar to newer cars, space is tighter and access can be more awkward on these older models, making a trim tool and patience especially useful.
B6 / B7 (Approx. 2001–2008)
The B6 and facelifted B7 generations refined the layout but did not radically change where owners should look for the fuse boxes.
On B6/B7 Audi A4 models, owners can expect the following:
- Interior fuse box behind the driver-side dash end cover (or passenger side on right-hand‑drive).
- Clear labeling, with fuse maps in the owner’s manual and sometimes printed on the inside of the cover.
- Engine-bay fuse/relay box close to the firewall, usually under a weather-sealed plastic cover.
- Some trims with Bose or premium audio, navigation, and advanced equipment may have additional fuses or relays in the trunk or under seats.
B6/B7 cars are old enough that corrosion, previous repairs, or aftermarket wiring may complicate access, so checking that covers are seated and seals intact is important for reliability.
B8 (Approx. 2008–2016)
The B8 generation (including the B8.5 facelift) brought more electronics and thus slightly more complex fuse arrangements, though the physical locations stayed familiar.
Common B8 fuse box characteristics include:
- Primary cabin fuse panel on the side of the dashboard (driver or passenger side, depending on steering position).
- Engine compartment fuse boxes near the driver’s side cowl area, sometimes with more than one cover or section.
- Additional rear fuse/relay panels on some sedans and Avants, especially for electric tailgates, rear climate options, and audio equipment.
- Detailed fuse listings in the owner’s manual, often split into interior, engine, and luggage-compartment sections.
The increase in electronics means that B8 owners frequently need to consult the manual to ensure they locate the exact fuse for systems such as MMI, Bluetooth, or parking sensors.
B9 (Approx. 2016–Present)
The current B9 generation, including its mid-cycle update, retains the same general pattern but with even more specialization and modularity in fuse assignments.
On modern B9 Audi A4 models, fuse locations typically follow this layout:
- Main interior fuse box behind the side dash panel, accessed when the driver’s (or corresponding) door is open.
- Multiple fuse and relay clusters in the engine bay, especially near the left side cowl and close to the battery connections.
- Optional rear-luggage fuse/relay areas for equipment such as advanced audio systems, tow modules, rear steering or suspension components (on some variants), and power tailgates.
- Digital documentation via the owner’s manual and, in some markets, within the vehicle’s infotainment system for quick lookup of fuse positions.
Because B9 A4s rely heavily on networked modules, owners are strongly encouraged to verify fuse positions against the exact model year and VIN‑specific manual before pulling fuses, especially around driver-assistance and safety systems.
How to Safely Access and Identify Fuses
Finding the fuse box is the first step; working on it safely is just as important. Audi designs these panels for basic owner access, but a cautious approach reduces the risk of damage or incorrect replacement.
Safe Access Steps
Before opening any fuse cover on your Audi A4, it is wise to follow some basic precautions to avoid short circuits or accidental damage to sensitive electronics.
- Switch off the ignition and remove the key or turn off the start/stop system.
- Open the relevant door (for the dash panel) or hood (for the engine bay) fully for clear access.
- Gently pry off the cover using your fingers or a plastic trim tool to avoid scratching panels.
- Use the fuse puller (if supplied) or long-nose plastic tweezers to remove fuses, not metal tools.
- Replace any blown fuse only with one of the exact same amperage rating and type.
By following these steps, most owners can safely inspect and replace simple blade fuses without specialist equipment or risk to the vehicle’s electronics.
Identifying the Correct Fuse
Because there are dozens of fuses, correct identification is essential to avoid disabling unrelated systems or wasting time checking the wrong circuit.
To match a problem system to its fuse, you can use several reference points:
- Owner’s manual: usually contains tables listing each fuse number, its function, and its rating.
- Fuse box cover: some panels have a simplified map printed or molded on the inside.
- Online resources: official Audi documentation or model‑specific guides often provide updated fuse charts.
- Labeling near the fuses: some vehicles have small printed or stamped identifiers near the rows.
- Diagnostic scan tools: on complex faults, a scan tool can confirm whether a circuit is open before checking fuses.
Using these references helps ensure you are checking the correct fuse for issues like a dead 12V socket, inoperative MMI screen, or malfunctioning power seats.
When to Seek Professional Help
Accessing and replacing individual fuses is within the capability of most owners, but some situations justify visiting a qualified technician or Audi dealer.
Complex or Repeated Failures
If a fuse blows repeatedly or a system fails even after replacing the fuse, it often signals a deeper electrical fault rather than a one‑off event.
Scenarios that usually require professional diagnosis include:
- Critical safety systems affected, such as ABS, airbags, or stability control.
- Fuses blowing again immediately after replacement, indicating a short circuit.
- Water intrusion or corrosion visible around the fuse boxes or connectors.
- Aftermarket equipment (alarms, stereos, lighting) causing unclear electrical behavior.
- Error messages on the instrument cluster that persist even after fuse checks.
In these cases, a workshop with wiring diagrams and diagnostic equipment can trace the root cause far more effectively than trial‑and‑error fuse changes at home.
Summary
In most Audi A4 models, the primary fuse box is located on the side of the dashboard behind a removable cover, accessible when the driver’s door is open. Additional fuse and relay boxes are found in the engine bay, typically on the left side near the firewall, and in some variants within the luggage compartment behind trim panels. While the exact layout varies slightly by generation and options, these three areas—dash end, engine bay, and trunk—cover the vast majority of fuse locations across the A4 range. For precise fuse numbering and functions, owners should always consult the vehicle’s specific owner’s manual or official Audi documentation before making changes.
What is the most common problem with Audi A4?
Top Audi A4 Problems
- Decreased Power and Poor Fuel Economy.
- Clogged Plenum Tray Drain.
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure.
- Excessive Oil Consumption.
- Engine Misfire.
- Suspension Parts Wear Prematurely.
- Flasher Relay and Control Module Failure.
- Engine Failure.
Where is the fuse box on a 2011 Audi A4?
The 2011 Audi A4 Quattro has multiple fuse boxes: one in the engine compartment, one under the dashboard, and one in the trunk. Each fuse slot has a specific amp rating critical for protecting circuits like lighting, infotainment, and engine control.
Where is the interior fuse box located?
The interior fuse box is most commonly located under the steering column on the driver’s side or behind a panel in the passenger’s footwell or glove box area. You may also find a second fuse box under the hood, near the battery. To confirm the exact location for your vehicle, check the owner’s manual.
This video shows the location of the interior fuse box in a car: 1mExpertVillage Leaf GroupYouTube · Nov 19, 2007
- Under the steering column: This is a very common spot, often hidden by a small panel or coin holder on the driver’s side.
- Passenger’s footwell: Some vehicles have a fuse box tucked away in the passenger’s side footwell, possibly under the glove box or a floor panel.
- Owner’s manual: Your car’s owner’s manual is the most reliable source for the specific location of your vehicle’s fuse boxes.
- Under the hood: Many cars also have a second fuse box in the engine compartment, often near the battery.
Where is the Audi fuse box?
Audi fuse boxes are typically located in several places: under the hood on the driver’s side, behind a panel on the driver’s side dashboard, and sometimes in the trunk. The exact location and number of boxes can vary depending on the model and year, so checking your owner’s manual is the best way to confirm the location for your specific vehicle.
This video shows the fuse box location in the driver’s side dashboard: 56s1NE LIFE CARSYouTube · Sep 18, 2024
Common locations
- Under the hood: Look for a panel or cover on the driver’s side near the windshield or cowl. Some fuse boxes are located here.
- Driver’s side dashboard: There is often a fuse box hidden behind a panel on the end of the dashboard, accessible when the driver’s door is open.
- Trunk: Some models have a fuse box in the trunk, often on the right side.
Tips for finding your specific fuse box
- Consult your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for information about your specific Audi model.
- Check multiple locations: Be prepared to look in all three common areas, as Audi models can have more than one fuse box.


