2021 Audi A4, A5, Q5 Pre Sense Not Available Message TSB

Symptoms of the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" Message

Owners of certain Audi models, including the 2021 Audi A4, A5, and Q5, may observe a specific message on their instrument cluster shortly after starting the engine. The symptom is described as:

• The symbol for "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" is shown for about 10 seconds after engine starts and then it disappears.

This message is typically accompanied by a visual icon, as depicted in the original bulletin, which indicates a temporary restriction in the pre sense system's functionality. The appearance of the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" message is a common query among drivers.

Technical Explanation of the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" Message

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 90 20 54 2059891/1 explains that this behavior is not a malfunction but rather a normal operational characteristic of the Audi pre sense system. The pre sense system relies on various sensors, including the front camera for the driver assist system, identified as R242.

When the ignition is switched on, the R242 front camera requires approximately 10 seconds to fully power up and initialize its systems. During this brief startup period, the Audi pre sense system is temporarily unavailable. The "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" message serves to inform the driver of this temporary state. Once the R242 camera has completed its initialization process, the message will clear, and the pre sense system will become fully active. This is a designed characteristic of the system and ensures that all components are fully operational before the system engages.

Important Warnings for Owners

It is crucial for owners to understand the implications of this informational bulletin. Audi Technical Service Bulletin 90 20 54 2059891/1 explicitly states several key points:

• "No repair is available at this time." This means there is no fix or update required for this condition.
• "Do not perform any repairs. Any repairs for this concern may be denied." Owners should not seek repairs for this message, as it is not indicative of a fault. Attempting repairs could lead to unnecessary costs that may not be covered by warranty.
• "Inform the customer that it takes the front camera for driver assist system (R242) about 10 seconds to start up and the icon informs the driver of this fact. This is normal behavior." This emphasizes that the message is a normal operational notification.

This TSB is purely informational and does not fall under any Audi Warranty claims, as it addresses a normal system function rather than a defect.

Owner Action and Next Steps

If you own a 2021 Audi A4, A5, or Q5 and observe the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" message appearing for about 10 seconds after starting your vehicle, there is no action required on your part. This is considered normal behavior for your vehicle's driver assist systems, and the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" message will clear on its own.

You do not need to schedule a service appointment or seek a repair for this specific message. The system is functioning as designed by Audi. Should you have any other concerns about your Audi pre sense system or other driver assistance features, it is always recommended to consult your authorized Audi service center. Further technical details regarding the Audi Q7 Occupant Protection and Infotainment System can be found in Self-Study Program (SSP) 970363.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10176848, Audi Technical Service Bulletin 90 20 54 2059891/1