2015-2020 Audi A3, S3, RS3 B&O Dashboard Speaker: Fixing Rattles, Distortion & Failures
This guide covers the Bang & Olufsen (B&O) dashboard tweeter for the Audi A3, S3, RS3, and A3 Quattro, helping you diagnose a bad speaker, fix common rattles, and avoid compatibility mistakes.
- This speaker is ONLY for vehicles with the Bang & Olufsen (B&O) premium sound system; it is not interchangeable with the standard system.
- Rattling noises from the dashboard are often caused by a vibrating speaker grille, not a blown speaker. Try securing the grille with felt tape before buying a new part.
- If multiple speakers fail or the entire audio system cuts out, the problem is likely the amplifier or MMI head unit, not the individual speakers.
- When buying used, always verify the part number (8V0-035-397-A) and inspect the speaker cone for damage or scraping sounds when gently pressed.
Vehicle Fitment & Critical Compatibility Warning
This dashboard tweeter, part number 8V0-035-397-A, is specifically designed for 2015-2020 Audi models built on the MQB platform and equipped with the optional Bang & Olufsen (B&O) premium sound system. It is not compatible with the standard, non-branded Audi sound system.
- 2015-2020 Audi A3
- 2015-2020 Audi A3 Quattro
- 2015-2020 Audi S3
- 2017-2020 Audi RS3
Audi Q2 Fitment: While the Audi Q2 shares some components with the A3 family, it is not confirmed to use this specific tweeter. Some parts listings show different speaker part numbers for the Q2 B&O system. Purchase for a Q2 is not recommended without first verifying the part number on the original speaker.
Warning: Before purchasing, you must verify that your vehicle has the Bang & Olufsen sound system. B&O speakers have branded grilles, typically on the front door speakers. Furthermore, some online parts catalogs have conflicting information, with some listing this part for vehicles 'with premium audio' and others listing it for vehicles 'without premium audio'. Always match the part number from your original speaker to ensure compatibility.
Symptoms of Failure
Diagnosing a failed speaker can be straightforward. Use the MMI system's audio settings (Balance and Fader) to isolate sound to the corner of the car where you suspect a problem. If the symptom moves with the sound, you've likely found the faulty speaker.
- Distortion or Crackling: The most common sign of a blown speaker is a fuzzy, crackling, or distorted sound, even at low volumes. This often indicates a damaged voice coil or a torn speaker cone.
- Rattling or Buzzing: A rattle or buzz that occurs only at certain frequencies or bass notes can point to a failed speaker. However, this is also a very common symptom of a loose speaker grille or interior trim panel, which should be checked first.
- No Sound: Complete silence from the tweeter location while other speakers work is a clear sign of failure. This could be a broken internal wire or a completely burned-out voice coil.
- Intermittent Sound: A speaker that cuts in and out could have a loose connection or be in the early stages of failure. In some cases on the A3/S3/RS3 platform, intermittent audio or total audio failure can be a symptom of a failing amplifier or MMI head unit, not the speaker itself. If multiple speakers are acting up, the amplifier is the more likely cause.
Known Issues & Mechanic Tips
Rattling Dashboard Speaker Grille
One of the most frequent complaints related to the audio system is a rattling or buzzing sound coming from the dashboard, especially with bass-heavy music. Before replacing the speaker, check if the noise is actually coming from the speaker grille vibrating against the dashboard. This is a common issue across many Audi models.
Pro Tip: You can often fix a rattling grille without any new parts. Carefully pry up the dashboard speaker grille using a plastic trim removal tool. Apply small strips of felt tape or thin foam to the contact points where the grille touches the dashboard or the speaker housing. Press the grille back into place. This small buffer is often enough to eliminate the vibration and noise.
🎬 See how to apply felt tape to fix speaker rattles.Amplifier or MMI Head Unit Failure
If you experience intermittent sound from all speakers, static, popping, or a complete loss of audio, the issue is likely with the sound system amplifier (located in the trunk) or the main MMI control module in the glovebox. This is a known, and often expensive, issue. A single failed speaker will not cause the entire system to go silent.
Buying a Used Speaker: What to Check
A used OEM B&O tweeter is often a better choice than a new aftermarket speaker because it's designed to work perfectly with the B&O amplifier's specific power output and equalization. Aftermarket speakers can sound worse if they don't match the system's electrical characteristics.
- Verify the Part Number: Insist on a clear photo of the part number. It must be 8V0-035-397-A.
- Inspect the Cone: Look for any rips, tears, or creases in the small speaker cone. It should be perfectly smooth.
- Check the Surround: The outer edge of the cone (the surround) should be intact with no cracks or signs of dry rot.
- Test the Cone Movement: If possible, gently press on the center of the cone. It should move smoothly without any scratching or scraping sounds. A scraping noise indicates a damaged, off-center voice coil, and the speaker is bad.
- Examine the Connector: Ensure the plastic electrical connector is not cracked or broken and the pins inside are not bent or corroded.
Replacement Overview
Replacing this dashboard tweeter is a relatively simple DIY job that requires basic tools.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 0.5 - 1 hour
- Tools Required: Plastic trim removal tools, Torx screwdriver (likely T20 or T25).
General Steps:
- Using a plastic trim removal tool, carefully pry upwards on the edge of the speaker grille on the dashboard to release its clips.
- Lift the grille off to expose the tweeter.
- The speaker is typically held in by two or three Torx screws. Remove them.
- Lift the speaker out, and press the release tab on the electrical connector to unplug it.
- Installation is the reverse of removal. 🎬 Watch this video for a helpful dashboard speaker removal walkthrough. Plug in the new speaker, screw it into place, and snap the grille back on.
Cost Comparison
Prices can vary based on supplier and condition.
| Part Type | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $80 - $120 | Purchased from an Audi dealership or online OEM parts retailer. |
| Used OEM | $30 - $70 | Commonly available from online sellers and recycled parts yards. |
| New Aftermarket | $25 - $100+ | Not recommended. Generic aftermarket tweeters are not tuned for the B&O amplifier and may result in poor sound quality. | 🎬 Watch a professional demonstration of an Audi A3 speaker upgrade.
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 | Typically less than one hour of labor at a professional shop. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I upgrade just the B&O tweeter to an aftermarket one for better sound?
This is generally not recommended. The Bang & Olufsen system is a highly integrated package where the amplifier is specifically tuned for the exact electrical properties (impedance) and acoustic response of the factory speakers. Introducing a different speaker can disrupt this balance and may even result in worse sound quality.
My speaker is making a rattling noise. Is it definitely blown?
Not necessarily. Before replacing the speaker, check for the most common cause of rattles: the plastic speaker grille vibrating against the dashboard. Try removing the grille and playing music to see if the rattle disappears. If it does, applying felt tape to the grille's contact points is an easy and effective fix.
All of my car's speakers stopped working at once. Do I need to replace them all?
No. When the entire audio system fails, the problem is almost never the speakers themselves. The issue is most likely a failure in the amplifier (located in the trunk) or the MMI head unit. This requires a more advanced diagnosis, often by a dealer or a specialist in European car audio.
Is this speaker the same as the one in the standard Audi sound system?
No. This part is specifically for the upgraded Bang & Olufsen system. The standard system uses different speakers with different part numbers and electrical characteristics. They are not interchangeable.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8V0-035-397-A 8V0035397A
Type: Tweeter (High-Frequency Driver) Location: Instrument Panel / Dashboard System Compatibility: Bang & Olufsen (B&O) Premium Audio
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi A3:
- Audi S3:
- Audi RS3:
- Audi A3 Quattro:
- Audi Q2:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Vehicle Fitment & Critical Compatibility Warning
- Symptoms of Failure
- Known Issues & Mechanic Tips
- Rattling Dashboard Speaker Grille
- Amplifier or MMI Head Unit Failure
- Buying a Used Speaker: What to Check
- Replacement Overview
- Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off