2021-2023 Audi A5 / RS 5 Rear Backrest Release Inoperative TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2023 Audi A5 and RS 5 vehicles may encounter an issue where the rear backrest release levers in the luggage compartment fail to operate correctly. This problem, officially addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 72 22 42 2062113/4, can prevent the second-row backrests from folding down as intended.

This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 72 number 21-35, dated July 16, 2021, and has undergone several revisions to add model years and update parts information. The core issue behind the Audi A5 rear backrest release inoperative condition is a disengaged Bowden cable, which is crucial for releasing the backrest latch.

Symptoms

If your Audi A5 or RS 5 is affected, you may notice the following symptoms:

• The second-row backrests do not fold when the release levers in the luggage compartment are pulled.
• The backrest release levers in the luggage compartment do not provide proper feedback or resistance when pulled.
• The levers feel loose.
• The backrests may only move forward approximately 1/8 inch.
• The red backrest latch markings may protrude, but the backrests still do not fold forward.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The primary cause of the Audi A5 rear backrest release inoperative issue is the Bowden cable disengaging from its attachment point. This prevents the cable from properly actuating the backrest latch mechanism.

Technicians will typically confirm this by checking if the second-row backrest release lever lacks resistance or feels loose, indicating the Bowden cable in the luggage compartment side trim has become disengaged. In some cases, this disengagement can lead to damage to the Bowden cable itself or its attachment point within the luggage compartment side trim.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 72 22 42 2062113/4 involves re-securing the Bowden cable. Here's a summary of the steps:

1. Identify Disengagement: Confirm that the Bowden cable is disengaged from its attachment point within the luggage compartment side trim. This is often visible upon inspection.
2. Remove Trim: The luggage compartment side trim on the affected side must be removed according to the repair manual.
3. Inspect Components: The Bowden cable and the backrest release mechanism are inspected for any signs of damage.
4. Reinstall and Secure: The Bowden cable is reinstalled into the backrest release mechanism. It is then secured in place using a tie wrap to prevent future disengagement.
5. Functionality Check: After reinstallation, the operation of both backrest release levers in the luggage compartment is checked to ensure they function correctly.
6. Reinstall Trim: Finally, the luggage compartment side trim is reinstalled.

Required Parts and Tools

For this repair, specific parts and tools are needed:

• Tie wrap: Part Number N 10647801 (considered a shop supply).
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed, these should be sourced according to the ETKA/ELSA system and the repair manual.

Warranty Information

This repair, identified by Service Number 7263 and Damage Code 0010, may be covered under Audi's warranty. The claim type is 110, applicable for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, requiring owner verification.

Labor operations include:

• Repair backrest latch, one side: 7263 4999 (20 Time Units)
• Repair backrest latch, both sides: 7263 5099 (30 Time Units)

Diagnostic time (GFF) and road test times (prior to and after service) are generally not allowed for this specific procedure. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware that if their vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. The cost of diagnosis and repair would typically be the owner's responsibility in such cases.

NHTSA ID: 10210509