2021 Audi A4/A5/S4/S5 Interface Parts Return SM 05-2021

Understanding Audi Special Notice SM 05-2021

Audi issued Special Notice SM 05-2021 on January 18, 2021, as a parts circular primarily aimed at parts managers and inventory control. This notice, identified as SM 05-2021, outlined a critical procedure for managing the inventory of specific interface control units. The goal was to ensure that only parts with the most current software levels were available for distribution and installation in vehicles like the 2021 Audi A4, A5, S4, and S5.

The special notice focused on improving the overall quality and availability of parts for customers. By systematically returning older software versions, Audi aimed to streamline its supply chain and prevent the installation of outdated components. This proactive measure helps maintain the high standards of performance and reliability expected from Audi vehicles.

Affected Interface Control Units and Software Levels

This Special Notice SM 05-2021 specifically targeted several interface control unit part numbers. Dealers were instructed to identify and return these units if they met certain criteria. The affected part numbers include:

• 4KE-907-468 (Interface)
• 4KL-907-468
• 80C-907-468
• 8W0-907-468

A crucial aspect of this notice was the "Software-Level prior to 0363." Any of these interface control units found in dealer inventory with a software level earlier than 0363 were subject to return. For example, the notice provided an image of a part labeled "4KL 907 468" with a software level of "0362 H04," clearly indicating it fell within the return criteria. This ensures that only modules with the most up-to-date firmware are used in service and repair.

Important Return Information for Dealers

To facilitate the return process and ensure proper credit, Audi provided specific claims procedures for dealers. These steps were designed to manage the return of the identified interface control units efficiently. Dealers were required to:

1. File a separate "Claim with Return," selecting "Dir Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. Dealer comments needed to include the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number.
2. Review "Parts On Command" the following day for the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays were to be communicated to the facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).
3. Enter the specific 40000XXXXX delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Adhere the YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include one copy of the Delivery Document with the returned part(s).

The deadline for returning these parts to the facing PDC was February 8, 2021. This strict deadline was put in place to expedite the inventory update process.

What Owners Should Know

While this Special Notice SM 05-2021 was directed at dealers, it has indirect implications for owners of 2021 Audi A4, A5, S4, and S5 models. The primary goal was to ensure that any replacement interface control units installed in your vehicle would have the most current software. This helps prevent potential issues that might arise from outdated software and ensures your vehicle benefits from the latest performance and compatibility updates.

Owners do not need to take any direct action based on this notice, as it pertains to dealer parts inventory management. However, it highlights Audi's commitment to maintaining up-to-date components in their service network. If your vehicle requires a replacement of one of these interface control units, you can be assured that the part installed will meet the latest software specifications.

Important Warnings

Audi explicitly stated that "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This emphasized the strict adherence required for the return deadline. Furthermore, dealers were advised to "Please re-order required new materials using the same part number," indicating that the purpose was to refresh inventory with newer software versions, not to discontinue the parts themselves.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10186590