<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/77481/a3_002_web.jpg"></center><p>So as I posted a few weeks back, I took my previously-owned-by-AoA, CPO A3 to the dealer to fix lost steering function (horn, radio controls, Air Bag warning light stays on). They pulled the steering and found the steering controls module had been tampered with and has a hole drilled into it (see photo of control module) - $520 bucks est. cost of replacement.

Becuase tab is broken and not in service recs, dealer can't cover via warranty, dealer contacted AoA (prev.owner) and told me "the module had been tampered with and could not be submitted for warranty, they [AoA] also informed me that if the module had been tampered with before delivery the problems would have manifested themselves immediately not 8000 miles later."

Only dealer has serviced the car (once, for ignition prob re: flooded &amp; shorted coilpack) except for Mavis tire for quick 15min NY State inspection (no way Mavis would have had time to pull the wheel).

Question:

a. Any ideas on why would anybody want to drill a hole there?
b. Is this some way to steal cars?
c. Could VAG-COM retrieve the mileage at which the "no communication" fault first occurred (I think it was at about 4000 miles).

Given the limited clues you have provided, I have surmised that a DIY (previous owner) or he/she had a A/V Stereo Shop modify the steering wheel controls (maybe some tricked out MP3 gadget, I-pod, Nav, etc.). Upon relinquishing the vehicle back to AoA, said individual(s), put the steering column back to stock. The mod and unmod was successful until a short occurred in the module over time due to the tampering. Note: a short does not have to happen immediately, it can gradually become a short over time. Another cold case put to bed by the troubleshooter, S. Holmes.

The bottom hole is suppose to be there according to the Bentley manual. You insert a drill bit or something long in there to release the module. But the broken tab indicates it's already been taken apart.

that a particular car is reserved only for prospective customers to try out. Some demos can be used by the dealerships' owner, executive, manager, saleman, etc. for their own personal use for a certain period of time/mileage. Therefore, that PERSON or his/her son/daughter/friend/cousin/etc. modded then unmodded the car before returning it. Note: I have only read this one post (audiworld CSI).

At some time in the past, the Steering Column Electronic Systems Control Module (J527) has been removed and reinstalled. When it was reinstalled, the securing screw was omitted.

Note that, for instance, to replace the ignition starter switch and lock cylinder, you have to remove the J527 module. This would hardly be cause to void any warranty. Perhaps AoA had to change the locks on the car at some time in the past.....

(according to Bentley)

I would think any grounding comes from the connectors that plug into it....