2021 Audi Harness Parts Circular SM 17-2021

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 17-2021, a parts circular dated March 1, 2021, to its dealers regarding specific harness part numbers. This notice is a proactive measure to enhance the quality of parts available to customers and streamline inventory management. The primary goal is to ensure that only the highest quality components are used in vehicle service and repairs.

This Special Notice SM 17-2021 specifically targets certain harness components that may not meet Audi's updated quality standards if produced before a particular date and lacking a specific inspection stamp. This initiative helps prevent potential issues down the line by removing non-conforming parts from the supply chain.

Affected Harness Part Numbers

The 2021 Audi harness parts subject to this Special Notice include the following material numbers:

• 8W0-972-251 (Harness)
• 8W0-972-252
• 8W6-972-252
• 8W6-972-252-A
• 8W6-972-251

These part numbers are crucial identifiers for dealers to check their current inventory. The notice applies to 2021 Audi harness parts for models such as the A4, A5, RS 5, S4, and S5.

Return Criteria for Harness Parts

Dealers are instructed to return all parts made prior to the production date of 30.09.2020 (DD.MM.YYYY). However, there is an important exception: parts produced before this date are acceptable and do not need to be returned if they bear a specific inspection stamp. An example of an acceptable part with such a stamp is indicated by "SQ 82" on the part label.

This criterion ensures that only parts that have undergone the necessary quality checks and meet current specifications remain in circulation. The production date and the presence of the "SQ 82" inspection stamp are the key factors for determining which parts must be returned.

Important Warnings for Dealers

Audi has provided clear guidelines for the return process, including critical deadlines. Dealers must return their inventory of the above-listed material numbers to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) no later than March 22, 2021. This strict deadline is in place to facilitate a prompt and efficient quality control process.

It is explicitly stated that "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This means dealers must adhere to the deadline to receive credit for the returned parts. Furthermore, if new materials are required, dealers should re-order them using the same part number, as the returned parts will be replaced with updated, quality-assured stock.

Dealer Return Process Summary

To ensure proper credit and maintain the quality of 2021 Audi harness parts, dealers are advised to follow a specific claim procedure:

1. File a Claim: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" and select "Dir Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. They need to include the Special Notice Number SM 17-2021 and the Parts Circular number in their comments.
2. Review Parts On Command: Dealers should review "Parts On Command" the following day for the Delivery List document. Any issues or delays should be reported to their facing PDC.
3. Labeling: The delivery document number (e.g., 40000XXXXX) must be entered on a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label.
4. Adhere Label: The "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label must be securely adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include Documentation: A copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s).

This structured process ensures that returns are correctly processed, contributing to improved quality for Audi customers.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10188614