2021 Audi e-tron Portable Charging Unit Default Setting

Why This Matters: Overheating Risk with Portable Charging Units

Audi has identified a potential safety concern with the portable charging equipment provided with certain 2021 Audi vehicles. If this charging system is used with improper or overburdened 220V power outlets and wiring, it could lead to a risk of overheating the home's electrical infrastructure.

This overheating can potentially cause electric shock or significant damage to the home's electrical system while charging the high-voltage battery. Owners of affected vehicles should be aware of these risks and take appropriate action.

What's Being Addressed: Service Action 93K8

Audi has initiated Service Action 93K8, titled "Portable Charging Unit Default Setting & Label," to mitigate the risks associated with the portable charging unit. This action involves modifying the default settings of the charging system and applying a new warning label.

The service action aims to ensure safer operation of the charging equipment, particularly when used in various home electrical setups. It is crucial for owners to understand the implications of this action for their 2021 Audi e-tron, A7, or Q5.

How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected

This service action applies to specific 2021 Audi models. To determine if your vehicle is included, please refer to the table below. You can also contact your authorized Audi dealer with your VIN to confirm applicability.

| Year | Make | Model | | --- | --- | | 2021 | Audi | e-tron | | 2021 | Audi | A7 | | 2021 | Audi | Q5 |

Manufacturer's Remedy

To address the potential safety risk, authorized Audi dealers will perform two key steps on the portable charging unit. First, they will change the default setting on the charging system control unit to 50% of its maximum charging capacity. Second, a new warning label will be attached to the control unit of the Audi compact charging system.

Customers are required to bring their complete portable charging equipment to the dealer for this service. This includes the control unit, the vehicle cable with the vehicle charging connector, the power cable with the power plug for household sockets, and the power cable with the plug for 220/240V industrial sockets.

Important Warnings for Owners

While the default setting will be changed to 50%, it is still possible to charge your vehicle at 100% capacity by pressing the corresponding button on the control unit. However, if you choose to do so, you must ensure that your home power supply meets all the requirements for safely charging the high-voltage battery at a current rating of 40 amperes. This often requires additional amperage capacity and compliance with applicable electrical codes. It is strongly recommended to confirm these requirements with a qualified electrician.

Detailed requirements for safe home charging can be found in the "Charging the high-voltage battery" chapter of your Audi vehicle's owner's manual. If you have any questions or concerns about the adequacy of your home power supply, always consult with a qualified electrician to ensure it meets safety standards.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2021 Audi e-tron, A7, or Q5, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealer immediately. Ensure you bring all components of your portable charging equipment to the dealership for the service action. This includes the control unit and both power cables (household and 220/240V industrial).

This service action is available as of January 25, 2022. Dealers are instructed to repair all affected inventory vehicles before delivery to consumers. Audi will be sending initial allocations to dealers prior to customer notification, with owner mailings scheduled for February 2022. For any questions regarding the Audi e-tron portable charging unit or other affected models, contact your Audi dealer.

Source: NHTSA ID 10206980