2021 Audi A6/A7/S6/S7 Selector Lever Fault Update

Symptoms of a Selector Lever Fault

Owners of certain 2021 Audi A6, A7, S6, and S7 models may encounter specific issues related to the selector lever. The primary indication of this problem is a warning message displayed in the instrument cluster, stating, "A selector lever fault is shown in the instrument cluster." This warning is often accompanied by a critical functional limitation: the inability to select gears using the selector lever. In such cases, drivers might find that only the steering wheel paddles can be used to shift gears.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When a 2021 Audi A6 selector lever fault occurs, diagnostic scans typically reveal one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the selector lever control module, J587 (address word 0081):

Code	Description
P17E600	Selector lever position sensor implausible signal
P091900	Gear shift position control error
P18CB00	Button for park lock implausible signal

These codes indicate specific electrical or signal issues within the selector lever system, pointing to an underlying problem with how the module interprets inputs.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The technical background for this 2021 Audi A6 selector lever fault indicates that the issue stems from an incorrect diagnosis of voltage evaluation within the selector lever system. Essentially, the control module misinterprets voltage signals, leading it to register a fault. This can manifest as the implausible signals detected by the DTCs, affecting the selector lever's ability to function correctly.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the 2021 Audi A6 selector lever fault, Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2063822/1 specifies a software update for the selector lever control module, J587. The procedure involves updating the module using the Software Version Management (SVM) system. Technicians must follow the detailed instructions provided in TSB 2011732, titled "00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions," to ensure the update is performed correctly. The specific SVM action code required for this update is 81A003. After the software update, a test drive is necessary to confirm that the concern is fully resolved and the selector lever functions as intended.

Required Software and Part Numbers

The software update targets the selector lever control module, J587. The new software version is 0056 or higher, identified by new software part numbers such as 4K1713041L or 4K1713041M, depending on the vehicle's original software. The SVM code input 81A003 is crucial for initiating the correct update process.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

• A7 TFSI e (PHEV) Specific Warning: For A7 TFSI e (PHEV) models, it is critical to unplug the high-voltage charging cable before entering the SVM code for the software update. Charging the high-voltage battery during this process can cause damage to high-voltage components.
• Existing Software Level: If your vehicle's selector lever control module software is already at the latest level (0056 or higher), this TSB (2063822/1) does not apply. In such cases, the concern should be diagnosed and repaired through standard troubleshooting methods without claiming this specific TSB.

Owner Action

If your 2021 Audi A6, A7, S6, or S7 is displaying a "selector lever fault" in the instrument cluster and you are unable to select gears, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. The dealership will diagnose the issue, confirm the presence of the relevant DTCs (P17E600, P091900, P18CB00), and perform the necessary software update to the selector lever control module J587. This repair is typically covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, verify owner eligibility for coverage.

Warranty Information

This repair falls under warranty claim type 110 for vehicles within 48 months or 50,000 miles. For CPO vehicles, claim type G10 applies, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, and repair costs may be the owner's responsibility. The service number for this TSB is 3785, with a damage code of 0039, and the labor operation for the software update is 0151 0000.

NHTSA ID: 10199214