2016-2017 Audi TT Quattro Sun Visor: Color Matching, Replacement, and Coupe vs. Roadster Warning

Symptoms of a Failing Sun Visor

Sun visor failures on the Audi TT are typically related to wear and tear from regular use and exposure to interior temperatures. Here are the most common problems you might encounter.

1. Sagging or Drooping Visor

The most frequent issue is a visor that will not stay in its upright, stowed position. It may sag slightly or drop down completely, obstructing your view. This is caused by wear inside the pivot mechanism at the mounting point, where friction material has worn down over time. Constant use and heat cycles can accelerate this wear. While sometimes tightening the main mounting screw can help, a worn internal pivot usually requires replacing the entire visor assembly.

2. Vanity Mirror Light Failure

If the light around the mirror no longer turns on, the problem can be one of several things. The issue could be a burnt-out bulb, a faulty microswitch in the sliding mirror cover, a damaged wire inside the visor's pivot point, or a blown fuse. Often, the wiring that runs through the visor's pivot arm can fray or break from repeated movement, leading to an open circuit. Troubleshooting should start with checking the fuse, then testing the bulb, and finally checking for power at the electrical connector where the visor plugs into the headliner.

3. Broken Mirror Cover or Hinge

The plastic cover that slides over the vanity mirror, or its small hinges, can become brittle with age and snap. This is often cosmetic but can prevent the vanity light from turning off if the switch is part of the cover mechanism, potentially draining the battery over time.

Buying a Used Sun Visor: What to Look For

Since aftermarket options are scarce for this model, a quality used OEM sun visor is the best value for your money. Here’s how to ensure you get the right part in good condition.

1. Verify Coupe vs. Roadster

This is the most important step. Part numbers starting with 8S0 are typically for the Coupe, while some Convertible parts may use a different prefix like 8V7. Always confirm with the seller that the part is from a Coupe to match your 2016-2017 TT Quattro.

2. Match Your Interior Color Code

Audi offered several interior colors. To get a perfect match, you must identify your car's specific interior trim code.

How to find your color code:

1. Open the trunk of your TT.
2. Lift the trunk floor panel to expose the spare tire well.
3. Look for a white paper sticker, known as the vehicle identification sticker. It will be stuck to the metal floor or the spare tire cover itself.
4. On this sticker, you will find a list of three-character option codes. Your interior trim code is one of these codes. The part number for the visor will often end in a suffix that corresponds to this color (e.g., 24A for Black).

Provide this code to the seller or use it to confirm that the part number you are buying is correct for your interior.

3. Physical Inspection Checklist

• Pivot Test: Hold the visor by its mount and swing the arm. It should feel firm and hold its position without any assistance. If it feels loose or swings freely, the internal pivot is worn out.
• Mirror and Light Check: Slide the mirror cover back and forth. It should move smoothly and click into place. If possible, connect a 12V power source to the electrical plug to test the vanity light.
• Fabric Condition: Inspect the fabric for stains, tears, or peeling, especially around the edges. Check for any signs of water damage, which might indicate a leak from the windshield or sunroof on the donor car.
• Mounting Point: Check the plastic around the mounting base for any cracks or stress marks.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Replacing the sun visor on a 2016-2017 Audi TT is a straightforward DIY task that takes about 15 minutes.

Tools Needed:

• Small flathead screwdriver or a plastic trim removal tool
• Torx driver set (T20 or T25 is the most likely size)

Procedure:

1. Pry Off the Cover Cap: At the base of the visor's pivot mount, there is a small, round plastic cap. Use a small flathead screwdriver or a trim tool to gently pry this cap off.
2. Remove the Mounting Screw: Underneath the cap, you will see a single Torx screw. Use the appropriate size Torx driver (T20 or T25) to completely remove this screw. Hold onto the visor so it doesn't fall.
3. Disconnect the Electrical Connector: As you lower the visor from the headliner, you will see a small electrical wire. Unplug the connector by pressing its release tab and pulling it apart. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
4. Remove the Old Visor: The visor should now be free. Note how the mounting base is keyed to fit into the headliner.
5. Install the New Visor: Installation is the reverse of removal. Plug in the electrical connector for the new visor and test the light before proceeding.
6. Position the new visor's mount into the slot in the headliner, insert the Torx screw, and tighten it until it is snug. Do not overtighten, as you could strip the threads or crack the plastic mount.
7. Snap the round plastic cover cap back into place.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace a sun visor can vary significantly depending on the source of the part.

Known Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Audi or the NHTSA for the sun visors on 2016-2017 Audi TT Quattro models. Any failures are generally considered normal wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)