Greetings to all A2 owners,

For over a decade, I have been upgrading and repairing A2s. Having dedicated myself to just one model of car, I have intimate, specialised knowledge of the vehicle we all love. Countless reviews and recommendations are scattered across the pages of this forum. My hope is that, with incremental revisions, this thread will give A2 owners a clear and condensed overview of the services that I provide and how I deliver them.

Timmus was originally a childhood nickname, born from my sister's early attempts to say 'Thomas'. Upon joining A2OC, back when A2s were first starting to appear on the second-hand market, my nickname seemed a suitable choice of username. Even when I was building models as a young boy, I showed an enthusiastic desire to improve and innovate. Studying physics and engineering at university honed my understanding and developed in me the skills necessary to innovate and improve in line with established principles and with a due respect for correctness, caution and consideration.
I soon found that my understanding of the A2's electrics was an asset to the club. My lifelong and apparently innate fixation on detail and desire for the very highest standards of neatness, efficiency and safety has meant that I have acquired a reputation in the club for factory-standard perfectionism. I am known not just for my meticulousness and painstaking care for the work that I do, but also for my honesty, flexibility, cooperativeness and integrity with the people for whom I work.

Below is an overview of the range of services that I offer for the Audi A2.

Retrofitting of Optional Extras

With the exception of OpenSky and climate control, I can retrofit all of the original factory options, plus many others. If you've seen it in an A2, I can add it to yours. It'll be just like your A2 left the factory with that option...
  • Cruise Control
  • Instrument Cluster Upgrades...
    • Mini DIS
    • DIS
    • Colour DIS
    • Customised Clusters
    • Bulb Check System Deactivation
  • Audio System Upgrades...
    • Bose Premium Sound System
    • Rear Speakers
    • Bluetooth Wireless Music Streaming
    • Audi Music Interface (AMI)
    • Stereo Head Unit Upgrades
    • Later Generation Audi Stereos
    • CD Changer
  • Seat Upgrades...
  • Steering Wheel Upgrades...
    • Multifunction Steering Wheel (Many Different Designs)
    • Non-Multifunction Steering Wheels
  • Fog Lights...
    • Front Fog Lights
    • Twin Rear Fog Lights
  • Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
    • Front Fog Lights as DRLs
  • Rear Electric Windows
  • Double-DIN Dashboard
  • RNS-E Integrated SatNav
  • Komfortblinker Indicators
  • Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror (3 Different Designs)
  • Bluetooth Phone Integration
  • Rear Parking Sensors
  • Optical Parking System
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Heated Windscreen Washer Jets
  • Headlight Washers
  • SideGuard Curtain Airbags
  • Speech Dialogue System (Voice Control)
  • Illuminated Vanity Mirrors
  • False Floor Boot
  • Twin Interior Boot Lights
  • Pop-Out 12V Boot Socket
  • Additional Keys
  • 12V and USB Charging Sockets
  • Anti-Hijack Locking
  • Beep-on-Lock Full Closure Confirmation
  • Aftermarket Dashcams
  • HID Headlight Conversions
  • Custom Requests
As time passes, more and more of the options listed above will link to further details. If you have any questions, please send me a private message or post in this thread.

Electrical Diagnostics, Services and Repairs

I have a complete understanding of the A2's electrical systems and have great experience of diagnosing and repairing most electrical problems.
TDI Engine Upgrades
Accessing My Services

I'm based near Lancaster, just off M6 J34. My workshop is where a majority of my work is performed, and everyone is welcome to visit me by appointment. I'm sometimes to be found at 'satellite stations' in the Midlands and the South East. I also perform work on A2s at A2OC social events, where suitable/appropriate.
Very occasionally, I also do 'retrofitting tours', where I travel between multiple A2 owners to deliver upgrade and repair requests at owners' homes or places of work. Please note that I do not drive for individual jobs; it’s much easier to bring your A2 to my workshop than to bring my workshop to your A2.
For Central European owners, I'm happy to travel/fly. I also have a base in The Hague, which serves A2 owners in the BeNeLux region.

Please be aware that I am my own secretary and that I can struggle to reply to private messages promptly when work is busy. Rest assured, no message goes unanswered and I will get back to you. Thanks for your patience.

My list of services is always increasing, and I will continue to update and expand this thread as needed.

Warm regards to all,

Tom
 
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Since I own an A2 with the BHC engine I am used to the frequent engine management light coming on. But as a VCDS owner I can always clear the code easily enough.
But it came on again yesterday and even though I could easily clear it, it can be annoying seeing the EML on until I get chance to set up VCDS.
But it suddenly dawned on me that now that I have Colour DIS I can clear it through that!!!
Next set of red traffic lights, 4 or 5 clicks on the stalk (to get to the menu option) and it was cleared.
That is so cool!!!

Thanks Tom

Steve B
 
Tom,
Please can you give me a date after you return from your climbing trip when you can book the A2 in ?

No change with the Power Steering Warning Amber Lamp. MOT Test is booked for Wednesday. Expires 19th September. I,m taking holidays from work 12th September to 1st October inc. so A2 will be available anytime.

Regards,

Steve U
 
Since I own an A2 with the BHC engine I am used to the frequent engine management light coming on. But as a VCDS owner I can always clear the code easily enough.
But it came on again yesterday and even though I could easily clear it, it can be annoying seeing the EML on until I get chance to set up VCDS.
But it suddenly dawned on me that now that I have Colour DIS I can clear it through that!!!
Next set of red traffic lights, 4 or 5 clicks on the stalk (to get to the menu option) and it was cleared.
That is so cool!!!

Thanks Tom

Steve B

Morning Steve,

I need this upgrade and cannot wait for Tom to have the relevant items back in stock.

Very envious of the pictures of CDIS in members cars. It looks so elegant, Project OEM will be very close to the front of the queue when Tom is able to re-offer this service.

Kind regards,

Tom
 
Since I own an A2 with the BHC engine I am used to the frequent engine management light coming on. But as a VCDS owner I can always clear the code easily enough.
But it came on again yesterday and even though I could easily clear it, it can be annoying seeing the EML on until I get chance to set up VCDS.
But it suddenly dawned on me that now that I have Colour DIS I can clear it through that!!!
Next set of red traffic lights, 4 or 5 clicks on the stalk (to get to the menu option) and it was cleared.
That is so cool!!!

Thanks Tom

Steve B
My EML diagnostic occasionally refers to the anti shudder valve Steve. I know there is nothing wrong with it after a replacement so always reset and delete. Agree that the colour DIS makes this so much easier.
 
Hello good people of A2OC,

My time at Ian's house in Leighton Buzzard will end today. I once again extend a massive thanks to @Proghound for his kindness and generosity. Ian, you've enabled so many people in the South East to access my services during these days of Covid-19. Thank you!
I had hoped to get through some secretarial work whilst staying at Ian's, but unfortunately that hasn't happened. I've often been busy working on A2s into the evenings, so I still owe a number of club members a reply to their PM. Rest assured, no message goes ignored and I will be in touch when time allows.
This evening, I am sailing to France, and then heading to the Alps tomorrow morning. Mountaineering often means prolonged periods without internet access, so it's likely that I'll be fairly quiet on the forum for the next fortnight or so.

My services should be available from my base near Lancaster as of the week commencing Monday 28th Sept.

Best wishes to all,

Tom
 
Tom, always a pleasure (as usual) to catch up last week.

Safe travels and thank you for your time on my A2.

Catch up later in the year.

Kind regards,

Tom
 
Last edited:
Hello good people of A2OC,

My time at Ian's house in Leighton Buzzard will end today. I once again extend a massive thanks to @Proghound for his kindness and generosity. Ian, you've enabled so many people in the South East to access my services during these days of Covid-19. Thank you!
I had hoped to get through some secretarial work whilst staying at Ian's, but unfortunately that hasn't happened. I've often been busy working on A2s into the evenings, so I still owe a number of club members a reply to their PM. Rest assured, no message goes ignored and I will be in touch when time allows.
This evening, I am sailing to France, and then heading to the Alps tomorrow morning. Mountaineering often means prolonged periods without internet access, so it's likely that I'll be fairly quiet on the forum for the next fortnight or so.

My services should be available from my base near Lancaster as of the week commencing Monday 28th Sept.

Best wishes to all,

Tom

Tom,

A2 will be available to leave with you Monday 28th September to Thursday 1st October. Longer if required. Please can you book it in ?

Regards,

Steve U
 
Tom,

A2 will be available to leave with you Monday 28th September to Thursday 1st October. Longer if required. Please can you book it in ?

Regards,

Steve U
Hi Steve,

Upon my return to the UK, I need to slot A2 work around a recording studio commitment. Unfortunately, that commitment isn't yet scheduled in stone, meaning I'm not able to arrange my diary yet. I'll start that process once back in the UK.

Having abandoned my A2 at a friend's house, I'm currently sat in a borrowed Tesla Model S on the French motorways, heading to the Alps on the French-Italian border. A much-needed holiday. :)

Cheers,

Tom
 
Hi Steve,

Upon my return to the UK, I need to slot A2 work around a recording studio commitment. Unfortunately, that commitment isn't yet scheduled in stone, meaning I'm not able to arrange my diary yet. I'll start that process once back in the UK.

Having abandoned my A2 at a friend's house, I'm currently sat in a borrowed Tesla Model S on the French motorways, heading to the Alps on the French-Italian border. A much-needed holiday. :)

Cheers,

Tom
“abandoned” doesn’t sound good. Hope it is ok.
Enjoy your holiday Tom
 
Had not 1 but 2 cruise controls fitted by @timmus in the time it would take to wash and vacuum the cars. Amazing work completed to the very highest standard as is always the case with Tom. Have a well deserved break exhausting yourself climbing up all the mountains. See you when you get back. From two very happy customers.
 
Greetings to all A2 owners,

For over a decade, I have been upgrading and repairing A2s. Having dedicated myself to just one model of car, I have intimate, specialised knowledge of the vehicle we all love. Countless reviews and recommendations are scattered across the pages of this forum. My hope is that, with incremental revisions, this thread will give A2 owners a clear and condensed overview of the services that I provide and how I deliver them.

Timmus was originally a childhood nickname, born from my sister's early attempts to say 'Thomas'. Upon joining A2OC, back when A2s were first starting to appear on the second-hand market, my nickname seemed a suitable choice of username. Even when I was building models as a young boy, I showed an enthusiastic desire to improve and innovate. Studying physics and engineering at university honed my understanding and developed in me the skills necessary to innovate and improve in line with established principles and with a due respect for correctness, caution and consideration.
I soon found that my understanding of the A2's electronics was an asset to the club. My lifelong and apparently innate fixation on detail and desire for the very highest standards of neatness, efficiency and safety has meant that I have acquired a reputation in the club for factory-standard perfectionism. I am known not just for my meticulousness and painstaking care for the work that I do, but also for my honesty, flexibility, cooperativeness and integrity with the people for whom I work.

Below is an overview of the range of services that I offer for the Audi A2.

Retrofitting of Optional Extras

With the exception of OpenSky and climate control, I can retrofit all of the original factory options, plus many others. If you've seen it in an A2, I can add it to yours. It'll be just like your A2 left the factory with that option...
  • Cruise Control
  • Instrument Cluster Upgrades...
  • Audio System Upgrades...
    • Bose Premium Sound System
    • Rear Speakers
    • Bluetooth Wireless Music Streaming
    • Stereo Head Unit Upgrades
    • Later Generation Audi Stereos
    • CD Changer
  • Seat Upgrades...
  • Steering Wheel Upgrades...
    • Multifunction Steering Wheel (Many Different Designs)
    • Non-Multifunction Steering Wheels
  • Fog Lights...
    • Front Fog Lights
    • Twin Rear Fog Lights
  • Rear Electric Windows
  • Double-DIN Dashboard
  • RNS-E Integrated SatNav
  • Komfortblinker Indicators
  • Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror (3 Different Designs)
  • Bluetooth Phone Integration
  • Rear Parking Sensors
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Heated Windscreen Washer Jets
  • Headlight Washers
  • SideGuard Curtain Airbags
  • Speech Dialogue System (Voice Control)
  • Illuminated Vanity Mirrors
  • False Floor Boot
  • Twin Interior Boot Lights
  • Pop-Out 12V Boot Socket
  • Additional Keys
  • 12V and USB Charging Sockets
  • Anti-Hijack Locking
  • Beep-on-Lock Full Closure Confirmation
  • Aftermarket Dashcams
  • Custom Requests
As time passes, more and more of the options listed above will link to further details. If you have any questions, please send me a private message or post in this thread.

Electrical Diagnostics, Services and Repairs

I have a complete understanding of the A2's electrical systems and have great experience of diagnosing and repairing most electrical problems.
  • Central Locking Faults
  • Door Lock Faults / Microswitches
  • Central Convenience Unit Replacement
  • Immobiliser Faults
  • Instrument Cluster Repairs
  • Engine Management Unit Services
  • Additional Keys
  • Climate Control Faults
  • Bulb Check System Deactivation
  • CAN Bus Upgrades
  • Wiring Loom Replacement / Repairs
  • Anything Involving Electricity
TDI Engine Upgrades
Accessing My Services

I'm based in Lancaster, just off M6 J34, and always appreciate it when A2s come to me. I'm sometimes to be found at 'satellite stations' in the Midlands and the South East. I also do 'retrofitting tours' a few times a year, where I travel between A2 owners to deliver upgrade and repair requests at owners' homes or places of work.
For Central European owners, I'm happy to travel. I also have a base in The Hague, which serves A2 owners in the BeNeLux region.

Please be aware that I am my own secretary and that I can struggle to reply to private messages promptly when work is busy. Rest assured, no message goes unanswered and I will get back to you. Thanks for your patience.

My list of services is always increasing, and I will continue to update and expand this thread as needed.

Warm regards to all,

Tom


Hi Tom,

The upgrade you did for Birchall looks fantastic! Congratulations on a really practical and helpful modernization. I would love to have you do a similar job on my A2. Can you provide all the parts needed? How long does it take you from start to finish? Apart from fitting in to your undoubtably busy calendar! And last of all how much would it cost? Ideally, I would like the Colour DIS, Mk2 RNS-E SatNav, Audi Bluetooth phone integration, Bluetooth music streaming, SDS voice control, a flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel with thumb-roller controls, Bose premium sound system, and maybe electric rear windows and rear parking assist or camera. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks!

Best regards-Don Ashby
 
My EML diagnostic occasionally refers to the anti shudder valve Steve. I know there is nothing wrong with it after a replacement so always reset and delete. Agree that the colour DIS makes this so much easier.

Sorry didn't notice this thread earlier.

I know @depronman can modify the ECU to clear this fault permanently now for BHC engines or ATL with the ASV. A new firmware is available for TDI90 / ATL that does this from Audi but for some reason not for the BHC despite the fault being pretty much identical.

I spent considerable time and expense (and I'm sure @Special edition we talked about this briefly when on the Skye trip with Tom) looking into this but the breakthrough came with a combination of knowing there was a known fix for the ATL following a chance trigger of a match for the fault code, plus some further info available via Paul and David (@damadgeruk) that enables modification of existing Audi factory firmware.

The update merely changes the tolerance where the EML is turned on as its effectively too narrow and is triggering false alerts.

I've been running with a modified ECU now for around 1 year, plus a period of running the ATL Audi modified firmware (that came out years after the car went out of production) and I can confirm no side effects, and no EML returning for the ASV fault code.
 
We have a lot of new members recently so I thought it worthwhile bumping this thread as they may have heard of Timmus via the forum posts but not fully understand what’s on offer.

Tom gives you the opportunity to step back 20 years and have the dealer options list sat infront of you choosing what extras you would like on your A2, all listed in post 1 of this thread.
 
Hi Timmus,
Looking for front fog light install please.
Have sent you a reply to an early ‘conversation’
Many thanks
Andy
 
Hi

Yesterday I drove to Tom (Timmus) for a planned upgrade session.

That is a FOUR HOUR drive either way!!!

That shows the respect I have for him and his work.

View attachment 67791 If you zoom in on the above picture you can see the “fly kill” and that was just from the journey back.

I have to compliment the A2 as well, four hours of motorway driving without stopping and at “motorway speeds”? not economically driving in any way and it returned 55 MPG (if I drive just reasonably economically that would have been close to 70 MPG.
My cars has a remap on it and it is PERFECT and as you can see it does not harm the MPG (unless you thrash it too much).

AS for the work that Tom did, it was as follows

Q7 multi function Steering wheel,
Colour DIS (which is truly amazing)
Full standard Audi Bluetooth phone installation (which includes speech recognition for the phone operation)
SDS, which is the remainder of the speech control for the other functions satnav, radio etc.
The lumbar loom
.

The colour DIS is not a cheap installation but that is due to the parts prices and the cost of converting the instrument cluster, but to a gadget freak like me it is pure “gadget porn” as well as having LOTS of useful functions and totally configurable. It even contains diagnostics and the ability to reset warning lights. It even lowers the passenger mirror when you select reverse (if you want it to)
The list is endless. I love it.

Some pictures.
View attachment 67794
View attachment 67795
View attachment 67796
View attachment 67797
View attachment 67798
Hi, the colour DIS has ever been built in A2-s by the factory or this is an upgrade from later cars? It's very-very sexy, but I only want to upgrade my car with factory options. Cheers: G.
 
A2 only ever had full DIS as an option with red monochrome / LED display.

The Colour display is OEM in looks but you are correct in that it was never a factory option.
 
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