2023 Audi Models TCM Software Emissions Recall 37P3

Audi has issued an important dealer communication regarding Emissions Recall 37P3, effective May 02, 2024. This recall pertains to a software error within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) of affected DSG transmissions in various 2023 Audi models. The core issue is that certain fault codes, once triggered and illuminating the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), cannot be cleared even after the underlying transmission problem has been resolved. This communication, identified as 37P3_REV20240502, updates previous instructions with additional criteria for claiming.

Why This Matters

While the software error does not affect tailpipe emissions or the vehicle's drivability, the inability to clear stored fault codes can have significant consequences for owners. Specifically, vehicles with persistent fault codes may fail subsequent state inspection and maintenance testing. This means that even if a mechanical issue is fixed, the vehicle could still be deemed non-compliant due to the software glitch.

What's Being Recalled

This recall, known as Emissions Recall 37P3, targets a specific software error within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) of DSG transmissions. The affected component is the TCM software itself, which is responsible for managing transmission functions and fault code storage. The problem prevents the proper reset of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after a repair, despite the vehicle operating correctly.

Important Warnings for Dealers and Owners

Audi has issued strict guidelines to its dealers regarding vehicles affected by safety and compliance recalls, including this 2023 Audi TCM software recall. These warnings are crucial for owners to understand:

• 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 used 2023 Audi model affected by Emissions Recall 37P3 cannot be sold or leased until the TCM software error is corrected. Owners purchasing these vehicles should ensure the recall has been performed.

Manufacturer's Remedy

The manufacturer's remedy for Emissions Recall 37P3 involves updating the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software. While the communication does not detail the exact procedure, it is understood that a software update will be performed by authorized Audi service centers to resolve the fault code clearing issue. This update will ensure that fault codes can be properly reset after any necessary repairs, allowing vehicles to pass state inspections.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023 Audi A4, A5, A6, A7, Q5, RS 3, A4 allroad, or A6 allroad, and are concerned about the 2023 Audi TCM software recall, it is recommended to contact your local authorized Audi dealership. They can check if your specific vehicle is affected by Emissions Recall 37P3 and schedule the necessary software update. This repair will be performed free of charge, as it is a safety and compliance recall.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11002291