2023 Audi Models Emissions Recall 37P3 for TCM Software

Why This Matters

Audi has identified a software issue within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) of affected 2023 models equipped with DSG transmissions. This 2023 Audi TCM software error specifically prevents certain fault codes that turn on the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) from being cleared from the vehicle's system, even after necessary transmission repairs have been completed. While this issue does not affect tailpipe emissions or vehicle drivability, the persistent fault codes can illuminate the MIL and may prevent your vehicle from passing mandatory state inspection and maintenance testing.

What's Being Recalled

This emissions recall, coded 37P3, targets a software error in the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The issue stems from a software error in the transmission control unit in affected DSG transmissions. This error prevents certain fault codes from being cleared, which can impact a vehicle's ability to pass state inspection and maintenance testing. The original publication date for this recall was April 26, 2024, with updated criteria for claiming instructions issued on May 02, 2024.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of specific conditions related to this recall:

• Modified Control Modules: If any control module(s) in your vehicle has been "chipped," "tuned," or otherwise modified from factory specifications with aftermarket components and/or software, the work needed to repair, replace, or return the control module(s) to factory specifications is NOT covered under this action. You may be responsible for these costs.
• Radiator Fan Operation: During the software update process, the "Radiator Fan(s) may cycle ON high speed." There is a serious risk that personal injury may result if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from the radiator fan(s) during the update process.
• California Owners: For vehicles registered in California, state regulations require that this campaign be completed prior to your vehicle registration renewal. Upon completion of the work, your dealer will provide a signed "Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction" certificate (RC EMISCAVWAU). This certificate is crucial for your vehicle registration renewal. "DO NOT MAIL THIS FORM to the DMV, unless requested."
• Dealer Inventory: Dealers are required to ensure that every affected inventory vehicle has this campaign completed before delivery to consumers.
• Warranty Reimbursement: A warranty claim may not be reimbursed if the Software Version Management (SVM) process is not completed in its entirety and the database does not receive the update confirmation response.

Manufacturer's Remedy

Audi's corrective action for recall 37P3 involves updating the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software in affected vehicles. This software update will be performed free of charge by an authorized Audi dealer and is expected to take approximately one hour. Dealers may require additional time for preparation and scheduling. Owner notification is scheduled to take place in May 2024, and the campaign code will be applied to affected vehicles on or about April 26, 2024.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process for the 2023 Audi TCM software error involves several key steps performed by an authorized Audi technician. This procedure updates the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software using specialized diagnostic tools.

Pre-Repair Checks and Conditions:

1. Vehicle Eligibility: The technician will enter the vehicle's VIN into the Elsa system and navigate to the "Campaign/Action" screen to verify that the campaign status shows "open." If the status is "closed," no further work is required.
2. Safety Recalls: All open safety recalls must be completed prior to performing this campaign.
3. Required Tools: The technician will utilize a Battery Tester/Charger (VAS5908 or equivalent, with a rating of at least 90A) and a Diagnostic Tester (VAS6150X/VAS6160X or equivalent).

Software Update Preparation:

Before launching the VAS Diagnostic Tester and starting the update, several critical conditions must be met:

• ODIS Software: The ODIS software on the diagnostic tester must be completely up to date. Technicians must refer to the "Current ODIS Service Version" circular in Elsa2Go Service References.
• Battery Connection: The battery charger (VAS5908) must be connected to the vehicle battery and remain connected throughout the software update. The battery voltage must stay above 12.5 volts. Failure to maintain this voltage can cause the update to fail and potentially damage the control module.
• Tester Settings: The screen saver and power saving settings on the diagnostic tester must be turned off to prevent the tester from entering power save mode during the update.
• Diagnostic Tester Power: The VAS Diagnostic Tester (VAS6150X/VAS6160X) must be plugged in using its supplied power adapters. It should never be used on battery power alone during the software update, as this can lead to power loss and control module damage.
• Flashing Method: The flash process must be performed through "Audi Flashing," not Guided Fault Finding (GFF). Using GFF will prolong the flash time, and requests for additional time will not be considered.
• Interface Connection: The VAS Diagnostics Interface MUST ONLY be connected to the tester with a USB cable. Using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections increases the risk of losing connection during the update, which can damage the control module and significantly increase update time.

Software Version Management (SVM) Process:

To perform the update, the technician will follow instructions in Technical Bulletin 2011732 (for US vehicles) or 2037026 (for Canadian vehicles). The SVM process includes:

1. Switching off all vehicle consumers, such as air conditioning, heater blower motor, lights, and heated seats.
2. Ensuring the latest version of ODIS is downloaded.
3. Confirming the diagnostic head is connected to the ODIS tester via USB cable.
4. Moving the selector lever to 'P'.
5. Selecting the operating mode "FLASH."
6. Choosing "SVM – Code Input" and entering the SVM code 37P3A008.
7. Following the on-screen prompts to complete the update.
8. Upon exiting the FLASH program, ensuring the diagnostic log is sent to GFF Paperless.

Warranty Information

This recall repair is covered under warranty. The Service Number for this campaign is 37P3, with a Damage Code of 0099 and Parts Vendor Code 002. For sold vehicles, the Claim Type is 7 10, and for unsold vehicles, it is 7 90. The Causal Indicator should be marked as 'labor as causal'. Vehicle wash/loaner services are not claimable under this action. Applicable Criteria I.D.s include FY, F5, GY, 4A, 4K, or 8W.

The labor operations for this update are:

• 0151 00 10: Software update (setup + connect battery charger), time units as per ELSA.
• 0151 00 60: Software update (Update TCM Software), time units as stated on diagnostic protocol.

California-Specific Requirements

For vehicles registered in California, the California Air Resources Board and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) mandate that emissions-related campaigns be completed before vehicle registration renewal. Once the campaign work is done, your Audi dealer will provide you with a signed "Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction" certificate (RC EMISCAVWAU). These certificates can be ordered online via the Compliance Label Ordering portal at www.accessaudi.com. It is important to retain this certificate for your records; it should only be mailed to the California DMV upon request.

NHTSA ID: 37P3