P3835moderate severityPowertrain
DEF Tank Level Sensor Malfunction
on 2012 Audi A3 2.0L TDI I4 · FWD
What this code means
The DEF tank level sensor is reporting incorrect or no reading.
Symptoms
- DEF level gauge inaccurate
- False low DEF warning
- Cannot determine DEF level
- Potential unnecessary derate warning
- Service message for DEF
Common causes
- Level sensor float stuck
- Sensor wiring corrosion
- Crystallized DEF on sensor
- Tank sender unit failure
- Short circuit in sensor
Diagnostic steps
- Read DEF level PID and compare to actual
- Inspect DEF tank sender unit
- Check sensor wiring for corrosion
- Test sensor resistance range
- Add known quantity of DEF and check reading
Repair notes
Replace DEF tank level sender unit. Clean DEF tank if crystallization is present.
Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle
P0001
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
P0002
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0003
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
P0004
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
P0010
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0011
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0012
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P0013
Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0014
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0015
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1