2021-2024 Audi A6/A7 Heat Shield and Absorber Parts Update

Audi has released Special Notice SM 14-2024, a parts circular dated February 27, 2024, aimed at managing dealer inventory for certain heat shield and absorber components. This notice is crucial for ensuring that the latest and most appropriate parts are available for service and repair for various Audi models, including the 2021-2024 Audi A6, A7, S6, and S7.

The primary goal of this communication is to prompt dealers to return older stock and replace it with updated versions of these parts. This process helps maintain high standards of quality and ensures that any vehicle needing service receives the most current components, which is particularly relevant for the Audi A6 heat shield absorber parts and similar components across the affected lineup.

Why This Parts Update Matters

Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of parts is essential for vehicle manufacturers to ensure consistent quality and performance. When parts are superseded, it often indicates an improvement in design, material, or manufacturing process. By updating the stock, Audi aims to provide the best possible components for its vehicles, enhancing reliability and customer satisfaction.

This proactive management of parts inventory, as outlined in Special Notice SM 14-2024, ensures that when a 2021-2024 Audi A6, A7, S6, or S7 requires a replacement heat shield or absorber, dealers will supply the most current version. This helps prevent the installation of older specification parts that might not offer the same level of performance or durability as the newer designs.

Superseded Part Numbers to Be Returned

Dealers are instructed to return the following material numbers from their inventory. These are the older versions of the components that are being replaced by newer designs.

• 4K1-804-163-C (Heat shield)
• 4K1-804-164-F
• 4K0-863-829-AC (Absorber)
• 4K0-863-829-AD
• 4K0-863-829-AA
• 4K0-863-829-R

New Part Numbers for Re-Ordering

Following the return of the superseded parts, dealers are required to re-order new materials using the following updated part numbers. These represent the current versions of the heat shield and absorber components.

• 4K1-804-163-E (Heat shield)
• 4K1-804-164-H
• 4K0-863-829-AK (Absorber)
• 4K0-863-829-AL
• 4K0-863-829-AN
• 4K0-863-829-AK

These new part numbers ensure that any future service involving the Audi A6 heat shield absorber parts or similar components on other affected models will utilize the most current and potentially improved designs.

Important Dealer Return Instructions and Deadlines

To ensure a smooth transition and proper credit, Audi has provided specific claims procedures for dealers. Dealers must file a separate