Hello fellow A2 enthusiasts,
I offer a Driver Information System (DIS) upgrade service. This is a complete service that includes the supply of all necessary parts, installation and the required software adjustments. The service is open to all owners of right-hand-drive, UK-spec A2s, though I have also fitted DIS to plenty of left-hand-drive A2s.
Introduction
DIS brings together different information in the centre of the instrument cluster. Unlike standard instrument clusters that have only a small screen capable of displaying a few basics, instrument clusters with DIS have a much larger, interactive screen. The DIS controls comprise two menu selection buttons and a reset button on the windscreen wiper stalk to the right of the steering wheel.
View attachment 23277
There are many different part numbers for DIS-equipped instrument clusters, determined by a variety of factors such as engine size, fuel type, fuel tank volume and year of manufacture. Upgrading to DIS requires an instrument cluster suitable for the specific vehicle, but I have a near-limitless supply of instrument clusters suitable for all UK A2s.
So, what’s included with a DIS installation? The graphics below illustrate the many features that come as part of this upgrade...
Core Features
View attachment 23278
- Instantaneous Fuel Efficiency:
This function shows the fuel efficiency at that very moment in time. The computer calculates the efficiency every 30 metres. When the vehicle is stationary, the last calculated value is displayed. The instantaneous fuel efficiency display can be used to adjust driving style in order to minimise fuel consumption.
- Average Fuel Efficiency:
This function shows the average fuel efficiency since the memory was last reset. Its value remains in the memory when the ignition is switched off, meaning the calculation continues each time the vehicle is used. It is useful for tracking fuel efficiency over long periods of time, over the course of a tank of fuel or for the duration of a specific journey.
- Average Speed:
This function displays the average vehicle speed since the memory was last reset. Its value remains in the memory when the ignition is switched off, meaning the calculation continues each time the vehicle is used. It is useful for tracking average speed over long periods of time, over the course of a tank of fuel or for the duration of a specific journey.
- Driving Time:
This functions shows the period of time that has elapsed since the memory was last reset. Its value remains in the memory when the ignition is switched off, meaning the time of subsequent journeys is simply added to the previous figure. To record the driving time from a particular point onwards, simply press and hold the reset button.
After two hours of continuous driving, DIS will automatically display the driving time screen and flash, to remind the driver to take a break. This notification can be dismissed simply by pressing any of the DIS controls on the wiper stalk. If the ignition remains on or if the driver takes a break of less than 10 minutes, the driving time alert will be repeated after each further 2-hour period of driving. The driving time alert is reset if the driver takes a break of more than 10 minutes with the ignition switched off.
- Fuel Range:
This function shows the distance the car can travel with the amount of fuel available in the tank given the rate of fuel consumption over the previous 20 miles. The range is displayed in multiples of 5 miles. The indicated range will change if driving style and thus fuel consumption is changed. It is useful for establishing whether a journey or series of journeys can be completed without having to stop for fuel.
Infotainment Features
View attachment 23279
- Audio Information:
This feature displays information from the factory audio system. Radio station name, tuning frequency, presets, CD changer disc, track number, etc are all displayed in the upper section of the DIS screen.
- Satellite Navigation Overview:
If an Audi satellite navigation system is fitted, such as RNS-D or RNS-E, the core information is summarised in the DIS display. The next navigational move is clearly shown, allowing the driver simply to glance at the instrument cluster and keep their attention on the road ahead. Audio information and exterior temperature are compressed into the upper section of the DIS display when the navigation screen is selected.
Additional Features
View attachment 23280
- Speed Warning:
This function can be used to create a visual and audible alert if a set speed is exceeded. Two speeds can be set. Speed Warning 1 sounds when a set limit is reached, but goes off again if the speed is exceeded by 25mph for a period of 10 seconds. Speed Warning 2 sounds when a set limit is reached, but does not go off until the vehicle speed has fallen below the set limit. This allows a ‘soft’ limit of 30mph to be set for use in urban areas and a ‘hard’ limit of 70mph to be set for use on motorways, for instance.
- Door Open Indication:
Unlike the standard instrument cluster that will indicate that a door is open, DIS goes a step further and will indicate which door is open. The graphic above shows that the front right door and the rear left door are both open. The tailgate will flash if the boot is open.
- Non-Urgent Warnings:
Although faults that pose a danger are displayed in red and cover the entire DIS display, warnings not considered urgent are displayed in yellow in only the upper section of the DIS display. Examples of dangers include faults in the ABS system, coolant loss, overheating and loss of engine oil pressure. Warnings include low fuel, low oil level, low battery voltage, brake pads nearing their limit of wear, etc.
This is an improvement over the standard instrument cluster in that common warnings do not overwrite other useful information. All core DIS functions can continue to be used despite the impending need to refuel, for instance.
Further Expansion
View attachment 23281
Although not included by default with my installations, the DIS cluster is capable of monitoring the washer bottle level and a selection of exterior bulbs if the appropriate additional hardware is fitted to the vehicle.
It is also possible to upgrade the screen to full colour, which opens up a huge range of additional features. For more details, please click
this link.
My Service
As mentioned, I can supply and fit DIS to any UK-spec A2. All the instrument clusters that I supply are in good condition and have been thoroughly tested. The graphic below shows a cluster undergoing a test sequence to check all facets of operation. For peace of mind, my installations come with a 12-month, no-quibble, return-to-base warranty. I am also happy to fit customer-sourced parts, though always suggest that compatibility is verified prior to purchase.
View attachment 23276
Total cost is for this option supplied and fitted is dependent upon many factors. Please get in touch with me for an accurate quote for your car.
Many thanks,
Tom