2021 Audi A4, A5, S4, S5 Instrument Cluster Blank Display TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 90 23 27 2063913/4, dated June 7, 2023, to address a specific issue where the driver information system (DIS) display in the instrument cluster appears blank. This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, 90 21-16, from October 13, 2021, and provides updated instructions for resolving the problem. This issue specifically affects certain 2021 Audi A4, A5, S4, and S5 models.

Symptoms

Owners of affected vehicles may notice that the driver information system (DIS) in the instrument cluster (PR Code 9S7) is blank. Despite this, critical gauges such as the speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and coolant temperature indicators continue to function normally. The primary concern is the loss of information typically displayed on the DIS, which can impact the driving experience and access to vehicle data. If you experience an Audi A5 instrument cluster blank display, this TSB applies.

Technical Background

According to Audi, the root cause of the blank driver information system display is a hardware defect within the instrument cluster itself. To counteract this, an optimized instrument cluster hardware has been introduced in series production for newer vehicles. For existing vehicles, a software-based solution is available.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the blank display issue, technicians are instructed to perform a software update on the instrument cluster, identified as control unit J285 (address word 0017). This update is carried out using the Software Version Management (SVM) system. The specific SVM action code required for this procedure is 17A036. The process involves following the detailed instructions provided in TSB 2011732, which covers general SVM operating procedures. This software update aims to correct the underlying hardware defect that causes the Audi A5 instrument cluster blank display.

Required Parts or Software

The software update targets specific part numbers and versions. Vehicles with the old software versions will be updated to the new versions listed below:

Important Warnings

It is crucial to note that the software update process may not succeed on the first attempt. If the update fails, technicians are advised to try again. Should it fail a second time, the vehicle must be put into bus sleep mode for at least 30 minutes before another attempt. The TSB explicitly states that the update can take multiple attempts, and technicians should attempt the update up to 12 times before considering replacing parts. If Audi releases an improved update in the future, this TSB will be revised accordingly.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the repair is covered under the G10 claim type, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, meaning the owner may be responsible for repair costs. The service number for this procedure is 9025, with a damage code of 0039. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10238181