2021-2023 Audi A5/S5/RS 5 Seatbelt Positioner Inoperative TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2023 Audi A5, S5, and RS 5 vehicles equipped with S Sport Seats (PR Code Q4Q) may notice that their seatbelt positioner is not operating as expected. This issue, described in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 72 22 44 2048311/6, specifically affects the seatbelt positioner's functionality, while the seatbelts themselves continue to operate normally. This TSB supersedes previous bulletin Group 72 number 22-40 dated February 1, 2022, providing updated information and a revised solution.

Symptoms of an Inoperative Seatbelt Positioner

The primary symptom reported by owners is an Audi A5 seatbelt positioner inoperative condition, which can manifest in two ways:

• The seatbelt positioner may be intermittently inoperative, meaning it works sometimes but not always.
• The seatbelt positioner may be statically inoperative, indicating it does not function at all.

It is important to note that this issue specifically pertains to the seatbelt positioner arm and does not affect the safety or functionality of the seatbelts themselves. No diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are stored in the vehicle's system related to this condition.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

This condition is observed exclusively in vehicles fitted with S Sport Seats (PR Code Q4Q). The technical background indicates that depending on the seat version, the seat could be adjusted to a position where the seatbelt positioner arm might make contact with the seatback. This typically occurs when the seat is adjusted fully upward and the seatback is tilted forward.

For A5/S5/RS 5 Coupe and Cabriolet models equipped with S Sport Seats, the vehicle's programming is designed to prevent activation of the seatbelt positioner when the seat is in such a position, to avoid physical contact. However, A5/S5 Cabriolet models with S Sport Seats are not at risk for this contact due to specific seat-to-belt positioner tolerances.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Audi A5 seatbelt positioner inoperative condition involves a software update to both seat control modules. This update ensures the seatbelt positioner operates correctly in all seat positions.

The service procedure, outlined in TSB 72 22 44 2048311/6, requires technicians to follow the instructions detailed in TSB 2011732: 00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions. The update is performed using specific SVM action codes:

• 36A003 for A5/S5/RS 5 Coupe models equipped with PR Code Q4Q S Sport Seats.
• 36A002 for A5/S5 Cabriolet models equipped with PR Code Q4Q S Sport Seats.

The update involves flashing the seat control modules with new target data container numbers and versions. For example, for A5/S5/RS 5 Coupe, old target data container numbers like 8W2909866B, 8W2909866C, 8W2909866D, 8W2909866E, 8W2909856B, 8W2909856C, 8W2909856D, and 8W2909856E are updated to new versions such as 8W2909866VB, 8W2909866VC, 8W2909866VD, 8W2909856VB, 8W2909856VC, and 8W2909856VD, with new target data container versions including 0011, 0013, 0014, and 0020. For A5/S5 Cabriolet, old target data container numbers like 8W5909866B and 8W5909856B are updated to 8W5909866D and 8W5909856D respectively.

Required Tools or Parts

The primary requirement for this repair is access to the Audi diagnostic system and the ability to perform a Software Version Management (SVM) update as per TSB 2011732. No specific physical parts are listed for replacement, as the fix is software-based.

Warranty Information

This software update is covered under warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type G10 applies, requiring verification of ownership. The service number for this repair is 6438, with a damage code of 0040. The labor operation for the software update is 0151 0000, with time stated on the diagnostic protocol (maximum 70 TU). Diagnostic time (GFF) and road tests before and after the procedure are listed with no allowance (0 TU). Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2023 Audi A5, S5, or RS 5 with S Sport Seats (PR Code Q4Q) and are experiencing an Audi A5 seatbelt positioner inoperative condition, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. Inform them about the intermittent or static operation of your seatbelt positioner. The dealership will perform the necessary software update to resolve the issue. Since this is a software update, it is typically performed free of charge if your vehicle is still under the specified warranty period.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10214749