2021 Audi A4/S4 Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist

When you purchase a new 2021 Audi A4, S4, or A4 allroad, it undergoes a crucial final check before it's handed over to you: the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). This detailed inspection, outlined in NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10177753, ensures that every aspect of your vehicle meets Audi's stringent quality and safety standards. The 2021 Audi A4 Pre-Delivery Inspection covers everything from basic functionality to advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity features.

Reminders for Technicians

Audi provides specific reminders for technicians performing the PDI to ensure thoroughness and compliance. All items must be completed by a certified Audi technician before customer delivery. Audi recommends using an approved battery charger to prevent excessive discharge during the inspection. Technicians must use Guided Fault Finding, complete the session, and send it to GFF Paperless. The Total PDI Test must be completed before any other scan tool work, and Guided Fault Finding should begin with the engine running to identify control modules in transport mode. For certain items, technicians are directed to refer to the PDI Technician Reference Document on ServiceNet or follow instructions for stock inventory vehicles.

PDI Checklist Overview

The 2021 Audi A4 Pre-Delivery Inspection is divided into several categories, each addressing critical areas of the vehicle. This ensures a systematic and complete evaluation.

Vehicle Preparation

This initial phase includes checking for open campaigns and updates, verifying the Audi phone box customer registration form, and adding its serial number in Elsa (referencing TSB 2051720 if applicable). Technicians also perform any open campaigns and diagnostic work, and install the front license plate carrier if necessary.

Interior Checks

Inside the cabin, technicians verify the operation of all seat belts, latches, windows, locks, and seat controls. They inspect mirrors, interior lights, and the functionality of heated and ventilated seats (if equipped). Climate control, power outlets, the panoramic sunroof, and the glove compartment are also checked. Finally, the front Passenger Occupant Detection System is verified for correct operation.

Exterior and Lighting

Outside the vehicle, all key buttons and features are checked. The exterior is inspected for any damage, dings, dents, or surface scratches, which must be reported and repaired. Exterior lighting functions are tested, and windshield washers are checked and aimed correctly.

Trunk Inspection

The trunk's operational status is verified, including the emergency release handle. Technicians ensure the wheel bolt cover removal tool from the PDI kit is installed, and the tool kit itself is securely placed in the luggage compartment. The inflatable spare tire and compressor are checked, and the spare tire pressure and battery clamp torque are set correctly.

Settings Configuration

Various vehicle settings are configured during the PDI. This includes setting the time source to "GPS" and auto daylight savings to "on". The MMI® touch operation is verified, and the time is set to "Automatic setting" and "Automatic time zone". Language and measurement units are verified and set. The Speech Dialog System is checked, along with "Entertain. Fad." in Parking aid, "Music volume while parking", and dealership location in navigation.

Media, Radio, and Satellite

Technicians verify the operation of auxiliary inputs and test all SD card slots. HD Radio is confirmed to be turned "off". Radio reception quality for AM/FM/SiriusXM® bands is also checked.

On-Hoist Inspection

With the vehicle on a hoist, technicians remove transport suspension blocks. They inspect the steering, boots, brake system, hoses, tires, and wheels for damage. The underside of the vehicle is checked for fluid leaks and loose components. Wheel bolts are inspected for proper torque, and wheel locks (if equipped) are installed. Finally, wheel bolt covers and center caps are installed, and tire pressures are set for either the sold vehicle or stock inventory.

Driving Performance Checks

A road test is conducted to verify driving performance. This includes checking horn operation, electronic parking brake functionality, and engine Start-Stop System operation. Engine performance and acceleration, transmission operation (including shift paddles), and brake function are all verified. Steering/tire alignment is checked, and the vehicle is tested for squeaks, rattles, and wind noise, which must be repaired before delivery. The rear view mirror is also calibrated.

Driver Assistance Systems

Driver assistance features are verified, including cruise control/ACC functionality, Audi side assist, and parking system operation (if equipped). Head-up display functionality is checked, and navigation is activated to follow directions back to the dealership.

Post-Road Test Inspection

After the road test, the SOS button and Roadside assistance button LED are verified to remain off. It's noted that the emergency call system may take up to 20 minutes to activate after flight/transport mode deactivation. Technicians interrogate the fault memory and upload the Diagnostic Log to the GFF Paperless Server. The service interval is checked, engine oil and all fluid levels are verified and topped off if necessary. The yellow tire pressure tag is ensured to be on the steering wheel. A 30 Day Inventory Maintenance Sticker is applied, and a showroom charger is installed to keep the battery charged.

Audi connect® Setup (USA ONLY)

For vehicles equipped with Audi connect®, technicians turn on the Wi-Fi® hotspot and check its visibility. Satellite map view for navigation is also enabled if equipped.

Important Owner Information

Owners should be aware of a critical safety check during the PDI. The document explicitly states: "The vehicle must not be delivered to the customer if the emergency call function has not been successfully activated (LED lights up in green)." This means that if the SOS button's LED does not turn green, indicating successful activation, the vehicle cannot be released for delivery. This ensures that vital safety features are fully operational from day one.

This information is based on NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10177753.