Let's move on to the next step: Color DIS

Let me try to to summarised what i've been told and understood...

The cluster stores a security code called the SKC code. In order for the cluster to function properly, the code in the cluster needs to match the one stored in the ECU. For a used cluster, my understanding is that the only way to get that number is to get it by reading the ECU of the vehicle the cluster is coming from. The dealerships no longer have access to these codes for security reasons. All is done via internet from a site in Germany downloading all the info directly into the ECU...

So the easiest way to install a colour cluster instrument would be to buy a brand new one from the stealership and have it install there. Brand new clusters are coded only once they're installed.

However that would probably be quite expensive. Audi charges quite a bit for new clusters and even more if the old one isn't exchanged for a new one. Or so I've been told.

Alternatively, from time to time auctions for colour clusters can be found on eBay.de... I was actually watching one of these just yesterday... but these are rare and the chances that the part number of the auctioned cluster matches the number one would need makes it even thougher... Also in order for the mileage of a used cluster to be changed it has to be under a 100kms and no more otherwise it cannot be changed by the dealership. My understanding is that the swap has to be done at the dealership regardless it's brand new one or not. One might be able to use a VAG (full-specs needed) to do that but that hasn't been confirmed.

So unfortunately it's not quite a straight forward swap...

Also remember that clusters are really specific to MY and engine... there quite a few of them listed in ETKA/ETOS, so before getting one make sure you've double check what the part number of the cluster you need is. The VIN number is needed to do so.

I only know of only one person who has been able to "upgrade" to a colour cluster: Nico (on AW occasionally), b/c he was able to buy one on eBay.de w/ the SKC code, unfortunately his mileage is all screwed up, b/c the cluster was already over a 100kms...

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AudiA4B6US said:

Well, what does a K04 cost? Just joking. The numbers I mentioned earlier were pretty much what is it: $660 for the cluster, $560 with AW discount (or from ClairParts), $200 because I did not have an old cluster to return and about an hour labor. I did keep my old cluster (anybody need a B6 cluster with 15k miles on it?), maybe I'll sell that on ebay.

The reason why I made the step were some messages on the German board which said that the Color DIS is connected different compared to the basic DIS. The guys over there tried to move just the LCD and it didn't work to well. So, unless you find a used one with the correct milage your options are very limited. And I didn't get it from Clair Parts because I needed the dealer to install it and reprogram all 4 keys.

One thing I noticed is that the issue with the DIS not displaying navigation instructions is gone. With the basic DIS I had to turn the navi off and back on to get the instructions. Now, with the Color DIS, whenever I start route guidance, the DIS changes properly.

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