2021-2022 Audi Headlights Stay On During Daylight TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may observe that when the light switch is positioned in the "AUTO" setting, the headlights activate and remain on longer than expected, or do not switch off at all during daylight hours. This means your Audi headlights stay on even when there is sufficient natural light, potentially causing confusion or unnecessary wear on the headlight system.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

This condition arises due to specific environmental factors affecting the vehicle's light sensor. The TSB explains that when the sun is low in the sky, particularly during winter, or if the sun is positioned behind the vehicle, the light sensor can fall within the vehicle's own shadow. This scenario causes the sensor to detect a lower ambient brightness than what the driver perceives. Furthermore, a clear, cloudless sky, which lacks reflective surfaces for the sun's radiation, can also contribute to a lower infrared value being measured by the sensor. In these situations, the system misinterprets the light conditions, leading to the problem of your Audi headlights stay on when they should be off.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi has provided a straightforward solution to mitigate this issue. The only method that complies with legal requirements for minimizing the occurrence of this situation involves a simple adjustment within the vehicle's Multi Media Interface (MMI) system. Technicians, or owners, are instructed to change the "switch-on point of the headlights" to "late" in the MMI settings. This adjustment modifies the sensitivity threshold of the automatic headlight system, allowing the headlights to deactivate as expected during daylight hours, thereby resolving the concern that your Audi headlights stay on.

Owner Action

If you notice your Audi headlights stay on during daylight hours, the primary action is to adjust the headlight settings via your vehicle's MMI system. Access the MMI, navigate to the relevant lighting settings, and select the option to set the headlight "switch-on point" to "late". This user-adjustable setting is designed to resolve the issue. If you are unfamiliar with navigating your MMI system or if the issue persists after making this change, it is advisable to consult an authorized Audi service center for assistance.

Important Warnings

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 94 21 39 2063739/1) is issued by Audi solely for informational purposes. It is explicitly stated that this bulletin is not applicable to any Audi Warranty. This means that the adjustment described, which involves changing an MMI setting rather than a component repair, will not be covered under standard warranty claims. Owners should be aware that while this simple setting change can effectively address the issue, it is considered a user-configurable preference rather than a defect requiring a warranty repair.

Additional Information

All part and service references provided in this TSB (2063739) are subject to change and/or removal. Audi advises checking with your Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins. Additionally, the Repair Manual should be consulted for fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that require replacement during any repair process.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10198234