There are other similar threads but I want to start a new one because I want to attempt a modification rather than have it restored to factoring specs.

Problem: the roof basket (or shelf) in the trunk has a switch that when in the down position tells the system that it is OK to put the top down. Unfortunately, the mechanism for lowering the shelf and the construction of the shelf is cheapo plastic and has broken (this is a common problem). The dealer quoted me $1200 to fix it - they are only willing and/or able to replace the whole thing. I've talked to two separate dealers.

Desired solution: I have taken out the whole basket / shelf mechanism and put the switch in the closed position (shelf down). This should tell the system that it is OK to lower the top.

However, the fault is still showing, but it is a general error on the dash. "The top cannot be lowered at this time." It's not the "roof basket is not lowered" error message, or whatever the wording was before.

I asked the dealer to clear the fault codes but the cannot or will not claiming that they can only put it back to factoring specs. When I pushed them, they basically said that the system has to be re-calibrated and without the basket/self, they cannot do it. They claim that the current fault code is "the right-rear control module."

Does anyone know what this is on a 2004 A4 Cabriolet?

Does anyone know a mechanic in the SF Bat Area that can (and is willing to) reset the fault code?