2017-2024 Audi A4/A5/RS5/S5 Rear Backrest Release Inoperative

Owners of certain 2017-2024 Audi A4 allroad, A5, RS 5, and S5 vehicles may encounter an issue where the rear backrest release mechanism in the luggage compartment becomes inoperative. This problem is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2062113/6, issued on April 16, 2024. This bulletin supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 72 number 23-52, dated December 21, 2023. This TSB provides a detailed procedure for diagnosing and repairing the Audi A5 rear backrest release issue.

Revision History

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2062113/6 has undergone several revisions:

• Revision 6: Modified labor operations within the warranty section.
• Revision 5 (December 21, 2023): Revised the header to include Model Year 2024 vehicles.
• Revision 4 (April 16, 2022): Revised the header to include Model Year 2023 vehicles.

Symptoms

Owners typically report that "the second-row backrests are not folding when the release levers in the luggage compartment are operated/pulled." When technicians inspect the vehicle, they often find that "the backrest release levers in the luggage compartment do not provide feedback/resistance when pulled." The levers may "feel loose," and the backrests might only move forward approximately 1/8 inch, with "red backrest latch markings protrude." Ultimately, "the backrests do not fold forward." This indicates a problem with the Audi A5 rear backrest release mechanism.

Technical Background

The root cause of this issue is typically the Bowden cable disengaging from its attachment point, which prevents it from releasing the backrest latch. 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

To resolve the inoperative rear backrest release, Audi technicians follow a specific procedure outlined in TSB 2062113/6:

1. Diagnosis: Confirm the issue by checking if the second-row backrest release lever is "without resistance" or "feels loose," indicating the Bowden cable in the luggage compartment side trim has disengaged. Figure 1 in the TSB visually depicts a disengaged Bowden cable.
2. Access: The luggage compartment side trim on the affected side must be removed. This step should be performed according to the repair manual available in Elsa.
3. Inspection: Both the Bowden cable and the backrest release mechanism are thoroughly inspected for any signs of damage.
4. Reinstallation and Securing: The Bowden cable is reinstalled into the backrest release mechanism. It is then secured in place using a tie wrap to prevent future disengagement. Figure 2 illustrates the Bowden cable reinstalled and secured with a tie wrap.
5. Functionality Check: After reinstallation, the operation of both backrest release levers in the luggage compartment is checked to ensure proper function.
6. Reassembly: Finally, the luggage compartment side trim is reinstalled.

Required Parts and Tools

Technicians will need the following parts and tools for this repair:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual. These can be referenced in ETKA.
• Tie wrap: Part Number N 10647801. This is considered a shop supply. Technicians should always consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first, under Claim Type 110.

• Service Number: 7263
• Damage Code: 0010
• Labor Operations:
  • Repair backrest latch, one side: 7263 4999 (30 Time Units)
  • Repair backrest latch, both sides: 7263 5099 (40 Time Units)
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (No allowance, 0 Time Units)
• Road Test: No allowance for pre- or post-service road tests (0 Time Units each). All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The claim comment should specify "As per TSB 2062113/6".

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware that if their vehicle is outside of the specified warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. In such cases, repair costs may apply, and owners will be responsible for these charges.

Source: NHTSA ID: 2062113/6