Columbus - System Start

Skoda Repair Service:
Columbus System Startup Failure

There is a fairly common software problem with this generation of Skoda Radios made by Continental and SiemensVDO as shown here, where the stereo fails to boot up or switch on correctly.








There appears to be a common fault where the system will "hang" on the welcome screen, or will repeatedly show the Skoda startup screen and then turn off again, reset itself and then repeat the procedure again on a continuous cycle.

We have seen this fault appear after a jump start or battery disconnection, and is very common if you have downloaded some pirate software from the internet in an attempt to upgrade the software, but that said, we have also seen the fault appear from normal useage. If disconnected, the reboot that follows may not allow you to get as far as the code entry screen, with the unit simply shutting down instead, and constantly cycling through the welcome screen as described.

This fixed price repair is for the system boot up fault as described only, if any other faults are found, or the unit has been tampered with, then we reserve the right to provide an estimate for any additional work that may be required.

Whilst we will try our utmost to preserve any data on your hard drive, in some instances we may need to reformat the hard drive in order for us to return the unit back to its factory default setting. We are unable to provide or upgrade any mapping data and you may need to reload your original mapping software discs.

When sending your unit to us, do not forget to enclose your code number. If a code number is not provided, then an additional decoding charge will apply to cover the cost of code retrieval - full details of our decoding costs can be found on our website under the relevant section.


Models covered

Skoda Columbus   Continental   3T0 035 680
Skoda Columbus   Continental   3T0 035 686 H
Skoda Columbus   Continental   3T0 035 686 L



Common Faults: Steering Controls Unresponsive

For those of you with steering controls fitted, whilst we will try to retain the original settings for these, there are instances following the repair where the controls may no longer function. This is largely because some of the configuration settings can only be performed whilst the unit is in the car. In this instance we would advise you to visit your local Skoda specialist for a few moments on their diagnostic system - its a very quick setting that needs to be applied.

Common Faults: No Audio

For those of you with the optional Digital Sound Processors (DSP) fitted, whilst we will try to retain the original settings for these, there are some instances following the repair where the audio output on Radio and Navigation may not be correctly configured for your system. (As a quick test, the CD playback functionality will also be impaired) This is largely because some of the configuration settings can only be performed whilst the unit is in the car. In this instance we would advise you to visit your local Skoda specialist for a few moments on their diagnostic system - its a very quick setting that needs to be applied.



Our staff have been Manufacturer Trained and Certified in Service and Repair techniques. Our repairs will include a 3 Month Warranty which is limited to the original faults as described and any remedial repair work that was undertaken.