2021 Audi A6/A7/RS7/S6/S7 A/C Cooling or Noise TSB

Owners of certain 2021 Audi A6, A7, RS7, S6, and S7 models may experience issues with their vehicle's air conditioning system. This can manifest as reduced cooling performance or an audible rattling noise from the engine compartment when the A/C is active. Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2061277/1 to address these concerns.

Symptoms

Owners might notice one or both of the following conditions related to their air conditioning system:

• Diminished Cooling: "When the air conditioning is operating the intensity of cold air feels diminished."
• Rattling Noise: "When the air conditioning is operating a rattling noise can be heard from the engine compartment. The noise is no longer present when the air conditioning is switched off."

These symptoms indicate a potential problem with the A/C system's components, which can affect comfort and system longevity.

Technical Background

Audi identified a manufacturing inconsistency in the N280 regulating valve. This valve is a critical component within air conditioning compressors produced by Sanden. Specifically, only A/C compressors manufactured by Sanden with the part number 4K0 816 803 D are affected by this inconsistency.

Diagnosis

If you experience symptoms such as diminished A/C cooling or a rattling noise, a technician will perform a diagnostic procedure. The first step involves checking the fault memory in the electronic central control module (BCM 1), also known as J519 (address word 0009), for any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

If DTCs are present, the corresponding test plans will be followed to pinpoint the issue. If no DTCs are found, the technician will proceed with a specific test plan for air conditioning efficiency. This involves navigating the diagnostic system to "09 - Electronic Central Electrical J 519 >> 09 - Electronic Central Electrical, functions >> 09 other functions, air conditioning system."

The results of this test plan will guide the repair. It may indicate an incorrect refrigerant volume, a faulty N280 regulating valve, or a faulty air conditioning compressor, which could be the cause of the 2021 Audi A6 A/C noise or cooling issues.

Repair Procedure Summary

Based on the diagnostic findings, one of the following repair actions will be taken:

1. Refrigerant Volume Correction: If the test plan indicates incorrect refrigerant volume, the technician will correct it to the specified level.
2. N280 Regulating Valve Replacement: If the N280 regulating valve is determined to be faulty, it will be replaced according to the repair manual. The service number for this operation is 8737.
3. Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement: If the air conditioning compressor itself is faulty, it will be replaced. The service number for this operation is 8734.

Important Warning: If either the N280 regulating valve or the air conditioning compressor is replaced, the refrigerant circuit must also be flushed as part of the repair process. This ensures proper system function and prevents contamination.

Required Parts and Tools

Specific parts may be required for these repairs. Technicians will consult the latest information from the Parts Department and ETKA. Key components that may be replaced include:

• Air conditioner compressor (Part Number: 4K0816803D)
• Valve for refrigerant compressor (Part Number: 4K0260839)
• Various fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws as specified in the Repair Manual (Refer to ETKA/ELSA for details).

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2061277/1 outlines warranty coverage for these repairs. For new vehicles, coverage extends up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, coverage is under the G10 program, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only, meaning the owner would be responsible for repair costs.

Owner Action

If your 2021 Audi A6, A7, RS7, S6, or S7 is exhibiting symptoms of diminished A/C cooling or a rattling noise, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. They will perform the necessary diagnostics and repairs as outlined in TSB 2061277/1.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10182486