2021-2023 Audi A5/A6/A7/Q5 Screw Parts Return SM 56-2023

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 56-2023, a critical parts circular designed to ensure the quality and proper inventory management of specific components within its dealer network. This notice specifically addresses the mandatory return of certain screws from dealer inventory, identified by a unique part number and delivery note. The primary objective of this Special Notice SM 56-2023 is to facilitate accurate credit for dealers and to significantly enhance the quality of parts ultimately supplied to Audi customers. For any dealer dealing with an Audi A6 parts return, understanding this notice is vital to maintain efficient parts management and avoid potential financial or logistical complications.

What's Affected

This notice concerns the screw identified by part number N -107-879-01. The document explicitly states that only parts originating from delivery note LS 614453 are affected and must be returned. The accompanying image in the Special Notice visually confirms this, showing a Volkswagen Group parts label with "N 107 879 01 SCHRAUBE / screw" and "LOT LS 614453" clearly highlighted. If the specific delivery note is not readily available, the parts must still be returned. Importantly, all other delivery notes for this same part number are considered good and do not require any action.

This directive impacts dealer inventory for various 2021-2023 Audi models, including the Audi A5, A6, A7, and Q5. Dealers are instructed to promptly return their inventory of these specific material numbers to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).

Important Warnings

Dealers must strictly adhere to the deadline for these returns. The Special Notice explicitly states, "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This means the deadline of November 22, 2023, is absolute for receiving credit for the returned parts. Following the return of the affected components, dealers are advised to "Please re-order required new materials using the same part number" (N -107-879-01) to replenish their stock with compliant and quality-assured components. This ensures that the Audi A6 parts return process leads to an improved inventory.

Dealer Actions for Return

To ensure proper credit and compliance with Special Notice SM 56-2023, dealers must meticulously follow a specific claims procedure. This process is designed to streamline the return and credit allocation:

1. File a Claim with Return: Dealers are required to file a separate "Claim with Return." During this process, they must select "Dir Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. It is essential to complete the dealer comments section with both the Special Notice Number (SM 56-2023) and the relevant Parts Circular number referenced in the document.
2. Review Delivery List Document: The day after filing the claim, dealers should review "Parts On Command" to access the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays encountered during this step should be immediately communicated to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).
3. Enter Delivery Document Number: On a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label, dealers must accurately enter their 40000XXXXX delivery document number. This unique identifier is crucial for tracking the return.
4. Adhere Return Label: The "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label, with the delivery document number, must then be securely adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts. Proper labeling ensures the parts are correctly identified upon arrival.
5. Include Delivery Document Copy: Finally, one copy of the original Delivery Document must be included inside the package with the returned part(s). This provides a physical record matching the contents to the return claim.

This detailed process ensures that every Audi A6 parts return is handled efficiently and accurately, preventing issues with credit or inventory discrepancies.

NHTSA ID: 10245542