1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Prelingcar LCD Digital Cluster Dashboard. This advanced virtual cockpit instrument is designed to replace the traditional instrument panel in Audi A4 models manufactured between 2008 and 2012, offering a modern and enhanced driving experience.
Figure 1: Prelingcar 12.3-inch LCD Digital Cluster Dashboard
2. Applicable Models
This digital cluster dashboard is specifically designed for:
- Audi A4: 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 model years.
Please ensure your vehicle falls within these model years for proper compatibility and functionality.
Figure 2: Product compatibility with Audi A4 (2008-2012)
3. Key Features
- Display: 12.3-inch LED digital anti-glare screen with 1920*720 resolution.
- Operating System: Linux-based system for stable performance.
- Quick Start: Fast response and quick startup, less than 3 seconds from car ignition.
- Non-Destructive Installation: Plug and play design, no coding or programming required, retains original car information functions.
- Original Car Data Display: Supports display of original vehicle status information including fuel, speed, fuel consumption, door opening/closing reminders, system settings, tire pressure, and angle display.
- Multiple UI Interfaces: Offers various UI themes (Classic, Track, Comfortable, Sport) and color selections to personalize your dashboard.
- Multilingual Support: Tailored language system supporting Chinese (Simplified/Traditional), Arabic, Russian, French, Korean, Japanese, Turkish, Spanish, Italian, and English.
- Steering Wheel Control: Supports original vehicle steering wheel controls.
- Optional Sync Display: Can support sync display from an Android player to the digital cluster via an extra cable (contact seller for details).
- Wireless Carplay/Android Auto: Built-in Carplay chip for wireless Carplay and Android Auto functionality (Note: This is an optional feature; if mirror screen is chosen, HDMI input is not available as it uses one video channel).
- Automotive Grade Chip: Resistant to high temperatures up to 80°C and low temperatures down to -40°C.
Figure 3: Fast startup capability
Figure 4: Customizable UI themes
Figure 5: Language selection options
4. Installation Guide
The Prelingcar Digital Cluster Dashboard is designed for a non-destructive, plug-and-play installation. This means no complex coding, programming, or modifications to the original wiring are typically required.
4.1. Non-Destructive Installation
The design ensures that the original car information functions are retained. The installation process avoids:
- Unbroken lines (no cutting of original wires).
- Solderless connections.
- No drilling required.
Figure 6: Non-destructive installation benefits
4.2. General Installation Steps (Consult a Professional)
- Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and the battery is disconnected before starting.
- Carefully remove the original instrument cluster from your Audi A4.
- Connect the provided wiring harness from the new digital cluster to the vehicle's existing connectors. The system is designed to be plug-and-play.
- Mount the new Prelingcar LCD Digital Cluster Dashboard into the dashboard opening.
- Reconnect the vehicle's battery and turn on the ignition to test the new cluster.
- Verify all functions, including speed, RPM, fuel level, warning lights, and steering wheel controls.
Note: While designed for plug-and-play, professional installation is highly recommended to ensure correct wiring and avoid potential damage to your vehicle's electrical system. If you encounter any difficulties, please contact our after-sales service.
Figure 7: Appearance after successful installation
Video 1: Example of digital cluster modification (for Audi Q3, similar process may apply)
5. Operation
5.1. Initial Startup
Upon turning the ignition, the digital cluster will start up quickly, typically within 2 seconds, displaying the main dashboard interface.
5.2. UI Theme Selection
The cluster offers multiple UI interfaces and themes to customize its appearance. You can select from themes such as Classic, Track, Comfortable, and Sport, along with various color options. These settings can usually be accessed via the vehicle's original steering wheel controls or through the cluster's menu system.
Figure 8: UI theme and color customization
5.3. Language Settings
The system supports multiple languages. To change the display language, navigate to the language settings menu. If your specific language is not available, please contact Prelingcar customer service for potential translation assistance.
5.4. Original Car Information Display
The digital cluster seamlessly integrates with your Audi A4's original systems to display essential vehicle data in real-time. This includes:
- Fuel consumption
- Speed and RPM
- Door opening/closing reminders
- System settings
- Tire pressure and angle display
- Other original vehicle status information
Figure 9: Original car data integration
5.5. Steering Wheel Control
The digital cluster supports the vehicle's original steering wheel controls, allowing you to navigate menus and adjust settings conveniently without taking your hands off the wheel.
Figure 10: Steering wheel control functionality
5.6. Wireless Carplay / Android Auto
The built-in Carplay chip enables wireless Carplay and Android Auto functionality. To use these features, connect your iPhone or Android phone wirelessly. If you are unsure how to use this function, please contact the seller for assistance.
Important Note: The system typically has one video channel. If you choose to use the mirror screen function, the HDMI input for sync display may not be available.
Figure 11: Wireless Carplay/Android Auto functionality
5.7. Sync Display (Optional)
For sync display from an Android player to the digital cluster, an extra cable is required. This cable allows for full-screen digital mode display from the Android player. Please contact the seller if you wish to purchase this additional cable.
Figure 12: Sync display cable for external video sources
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the screen. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the anti-glare coating.
- Temperature: The automotive-grade chip is designed to withstand extreme temperatures (-40°C to 80°C). However, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight in extreme heat to prolong the lifespan of the display.
- Software Updates: Prelingcar provides free updates for firmware, software, UI, and GPS navigation maps. Check the official website or contact support for information on available updates and installation procedures.
Figure 13: Automotive grade chip for durability
7. Troubleshooting
- Q: The screen does not turn on after installation.
- A: Double-check all cable connections to ensure they are securely seated. Verify that the vehicle's battery is properly connected and charged. If the issue persists, professional assistance is recommended.
- Q: Original car information is not displayed correctly.
- A: Ensure the installation was performed correctly and all original car data lines are properly connected. If the problem continues, contact technical support.
- Q: Wireless Carplay/Android Auto is not connecting.
- A: Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your smartphone. Try restarting both your phone and the digital cluster. If issues persist, refer to the Carplay/Android Auto specific instructions or contact the seller for guidance.
- Q: Display is showing "Navigation without signal".
- A: This message indicates that the navigation system is not receiving a GPS signal or is not connected. Ensure any external GPS antenna (if applicable) is properly installed and has a clear view of the sky.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 12.3 inches |
| Resolution | 1920*720 |
| Screen Type | LED Digital, Anti-Glare |
| Operating System | Linux |
| Interface | Plug and Play |
| Power | 4*45W |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Material Type | Metal and ABS Plastic |
| Item Weight | 3.5 kg |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 40cm x 30cm x 20cm (approximate) |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 80°C |
| Brand Name | PRELINGCAR |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Certification | CE |
9. User Tips
- Personalize Your Display: Experiment with the different UI themes and color options to find the style that best suits your preference.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for software updates from Prelingcar to ensure you have the latest features and performance enhancements.
- Optimize Carplay/Android Auto: For the best wireless Carplay/Android Auto experience, ensure your phone's operating system is up to date and that there are no conflicting Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections.
- Professional Installation: Although it's plug-and-play, consider professional installation to guarantee optimal performance and avoid any potential issues.
10. Warranty and Support
10.1. Warranty
The product comes with a 2-year warranty. If the product experiences a problem within 365 days after receipt confirmation, the seller supports free return and refund within 15 days, or a direct replacement of the new machine. Please contact customer service first to communicate any issues.
10.2. Customer Support
For any questions, installation assistance, or issues, please feel free to contact Prelingcar customer service. An engineering team is available to help with installation and technical queries. Customer service is available 24 hours.
11. Safety Information
⚠ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
