2021-2022 Audi e-tron Pressure Sensor Parts Return

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 18-2022, a parts circular dated February 28, 2022, addressed to parts managers. This notice outlines the requirement for dealers to return specific inventory items related to coolant pipes and heater cores for certain 2021-2022 Audi e-tron, Q7, and Q8 vehicles. The directive is a proactive measure to ensure that only quality-inspected parts are used in service and repair operations, particularly concerning the Audi e-tron pressure sensor.

The core of the issue lies with particular pressure sensors installed on these components. Audi is taking steps to manage inventory and prevent the use of parts that may not meet their quality standards, ultimately benefiting vehicle owners by ensuring reliable repairs.

Affected Components and Part Numbers

This special notice identifies several material numbers for coolant pipes and heater cores that are subject to return. These parts are used in various Audi models, including the 2021-2022 Audi e-tron, Q7, and Q8. The affected material numbers are:

• 1EA-816-743-J (Coolant Pipe)
• 5QE-816-721-D
• 5QE-816-017-B
• 5Q0-816-721-T
• 9J1-820-249-K
• 9J1-816-198-E
• 4KE-816-743-K
• 4KE-816-721-L
• 4M0-816-743-DD
• 9J1-816-112-J (Heater Core)

The Pressure Sensor Issue

The reason for the parts return centers on specific pressure sensors, identified by part numbers 4M0-959-603-C and 4M0-959-603-E, which are installed on the listed coolant pipes and heater cores. Parts containing these pressure sensors require further inspection based on their production dates.

Specifically, sensors falling within the following production date ranges are affected:

• 4M0-959-603-C: Produced between week 23 of 2020 and week 39 of 2020.
• 4M0-959-603-E: Produced between week 39 of 2020 and week 30 of 2021.

However, there is an important exemption: any of these sensors that have a green dot or a laser marking are considered acceptable, regardless of their production date. The presence of this marking indicates that the sensor has passed quality inspection. The image in the notice illustrates an example of these markings, which are crucial for identifying compliant parts.

Dealer Return Procedure and Deadlines

Audi has provided specific instructions for dealers to manage the return of these affected parts to ensure proper credit and to prevent potentially faulty components from reaching customers. Dealers must return their inventory of the listed material numbers to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) no later than March 21, 2022.

The return process involves several steps:

1. Claim Filing: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" and select "DIr Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. Dealer comments should include the Special Notice Number (SM 18-2022) and Parts Circular number.
2. Delivery List Review: Review the "Parts On Command" delivery list document the following day. Any problems or delays should be reported to the facing PDC.
3. Labeling: Enter the 40000XXXXX delivery document number on a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label.
4. Packaging: Adhere the "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Documentation: Include one copy of the Delivery Document with the returned part(s).

Important Warning: Items returned after the March 21, 2022 deadline WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback. Dealers are instructed to re-order any required new materials using the same part number to ensure they receive compliant components.

What This Means for Owners

This Special Notice is primarily an internal communication to Audi dealerships, focusing on inventory management for the Audi e-tron pressure sensor and related components. For owners of 2021-2022 Audi e-tron, Q7, or Q8 vehicles, this notice ensures that any replacement coolant pipes or heater cores installed during service will contain pressure sensors that meet Audi's quality standards. This proactive measure helps prevent potential issues related to faulty sensors and contributes to the overall reliability and safety of your vehicle.

NHTSA ID: 10208464