2021-2022 Audi Exterior Glass Cleaning TSB

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe the following conditions on their exterior glass:

• The windshield is streaked.
• The glass has a "snakeskin appearance."
• The surface of the glass feels rough to the touch.

These symptoms are often a result of environmental contaminants accumulating on the glass over time.

Technical Background

The primary cause of the streaked, snakeskin, or rough exterior glass is the accumulation of residue. This residue originates from industrial fallout, normal road dirt, and general grime that adheres to the windshield surface.

Important Warnings

Audi has issued specific advisories regarding this exterior glass cleaning procedure:

• "This procedure must be performed and verified before a wiper blade replacement. All Warranty claims will be rejected for wiper blade replacement if a defect is not found."
• "Do not use the 3M™ Glass Polishing Compound to clean the wiper blades."
• "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty."

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the streaked or rough exterior glass, Audi outlines a detailed cleaning process. This procedure is designed to thoroughly remove accumulated residue and restore clarity to the glass. For effective Audi e-tron exterior glass cleaning, follow these steps:

1. Begin by washing and thoroughly drying all affected exterior glass surfaces on the vehicle.
2. Place the vehicle's wipers into their service position to allow full access to the windshield.
3. Clean any residue from the wiper blades themselves using a standard household glass cleaner, such as Windex® or 3M™ Glass Cleaner. It is crucial not to use the 3M™ Glass Polishing Compound on the wiper blades.
4. Shake the bottle of 3M™ Glass Polishing Compound vigorously to ensure the product is evenly mixed.
5. Apply the polishing compound directly to the outside of the windshield, covering both the driver and passenger sides.
6. Using a clean, dry microfiber cloth (such as the 3M™ Microfiber Detail Cloth - Yellow), vigorously clean the windshield. Use long, horizontal strokes and take care to avoid applying the product to the window trim.
7. Allow the compound to dry on the glass until a fine film layer, or haze, forms. Note that drying time can be longer in cooler temperatures, specifically 60°F (15°C) or lower.
8. Rinse the entire windshield thoroughly with a garden hose. Also, rinse any product that may have inadvertently come into contact with the trim.
9. Using a fresh, clean, and dry microfiber cloth, dry and buff the glass to achieve a clean, streak-free shine.
10. Finally, use a microfiber cloth dampened with warm water and wrung out to wipe off any remaining residue that may have touched the trim or rubber seals.

Required Tools or Parts

The following specific products are recommended for performing the Audi e-tron exterior glass cleaning procedure:

• 60150: 3M™ Glass Polishing Compound (Quantity: 01)
• 39016: 3M™ Microfiber Detail Cloth - Yellow (Quantity: 01)

These items can be ordered through Audi Top Service Supplies & Touch Up Paint eStore.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2022 Audi e-tron or other applicable Audi model exhibits streaked, snakeskin, or rough exterior glass, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi service center. They can perform the specific Audi e-tron exterior glass cleaning procedure outlined in TSB 2020552/10. Be aware that this TSB is informational, and the cleaning procedure itself may not be covered under Audi's warranty.

Superseded Bulletin

This Technical Service Bulletin (64 21 80 2020552/10 dated May 6, 2021) supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 64 number 20-74, which was dated May 8, 2020. The update includes revised header information, added model years, new models, and changes to product numbers for required parts and tools.

NHTSA ID

10193228