2023 Audi Emissions Recall 37P3 TCM Software Update

Audi has issued an important dealer communication regarding Emissions Recall 37P3, which pertains to a software error within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) of certain 2023 model year vehicles. This recall specifically targets a condition where, even after necessary repairs to resolve an underlying transmission problem, certain fault codes that activate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) cannot be cleared from the system. This could lead to issues with vehicle compliance.

The Audi 37P3 TCM software update is crucial for ensuring that vehicles meet regulatory standards. While the issue does not affect tailpipe emissions or the vehicle's drivability, the inability to clear stored fault codes can prevent a vehicle from passing required state inspection and maintenance tests. This recall highlights Audi's commitment to addressing compliance issues promptly.

What's Being Recalled

This recall, identified as Emissions Recall 37P3, involves a software error in the transmission control unit (TCM) of affected Audi vehicles equipped with DSG transmissions. The core problem is that once the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is illuminated due to a fault, and the underlying mechanical issue is resolved, the associated fault codes cannot be properly cleared from the TCM's memory. This software glitch prevents the vehicle's diagnostic system from resetting to a compliant state.

Important Warnings for Owners and Dealers

Audi has issued strict guidelines for dealers regarding vehicles affected by this recall. These warnings are critical for both dealer compliance and owner awareness:

• "IMPORTANT REMINDER: VEHICLES AFFECTED BY SAFETY & COMPLIANCE RECALLS"
• New Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: "It is a violation of federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is remedied. By law, dealers must correct, prior to delivery for sale or lease, any vehicle that fails to comply with an applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or that contains a defect relating to motor vehicle safety."
• Pre-Owned Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: "Dealers should not deliver any pre-owned vehicles in their inventory which are involved in a safety or compliance recall until the defect has been remedied."

These directives mean that any new or pre-owned 2023 Audi vehicle covered by this Audi 37P3 TCM software recall cannot be sold or leased until the necessary software update has been performed. Owners of affected vehicles should be aware that their vehicle may not pass state inspection until this recall is addressed.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of this TCM software error is the persistence of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) on the dashboard, even after any underlying mechanical issues with the transmission have been repaired. Owners might notice that after a repair, the MIL light remains illuminated, or that diagnostic fault codes related to the transmission cannot be cleared by a service technician. This condition, while not impacting vehicle performance or safety, directly affects the vehicle's ability to pass emissions or safety inspections.

Manufacturer's Remedy

The remedy for Emissions Recall 37P3 involves a software update for the transmission control unit (TCM). This update will correct the error that prevents fault codes from being cleared, ensuring that the MIL can be properly reset after any necessary repairs. Audi dealers will perform this software update free of charge to vehicle owners. This ensures that vehicles can pass state inspection and maintenance testing without issue. The updated claiming instructions for dealers include additional criteria to facilitate this process.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023 Audi A6, RS 3, A4 allroad, Q5, A7, A6 allroad, A4, or A5, and have experienced issues with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) remaining on after transmission repairs, or if you are concerned about compliance with state inspections, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer. They will be able to confirm if your vehicle is affected by Emissions Recall 37P3 and schedule the necessary TCM software update. This repair will be performed at no cost to you.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11002191