2021-2022 Audi Connect User Management Greyed Out TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may experience several issues related to the Audi connect system and emergency services. The primary symptom is when the "User management" screen within Audi connect is greyed out, preventing the customer from completing the key user pairing process. Additionally, the SOS emergency button may appear red or flashing red.

When the SOS button is pressed, an error message may display, stating: "Your subscription for the emergency call service has expired". These symptoms indicate a potential problem with the vehicle's telematics system.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing these symptoms, technicians may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the vehicle's system:

Code	Description	Module	Address Word
P169A00	"Transport mode active"	Engine Control Module (ECM)	0001 (J623)
U13EB00	"Emergency call module and communication unit Flight mode activated"	Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit	0075 (J949)
U142100	"Control module for emergency call module and communication unit no communication"	Gateway Module	N/A

Note that DTC U142100 was removed from the current TSB revision but is still relevant if the incorrect diagnostic equipment is used, as it indicates a communication issue when the ConBox remains in transport mode.

Technical Background

For 2019 model year vehicles and newer, Audi introduced a new telematics module known as the "Control Module for Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit, J949", also referred to as the Connectivity Box or ConBox. This module, located at diagnostic address 0075, supports LTE connectivity, a significant upgrade from the previous 3G GSM capable gateway.

The issue arises when the ConBox module remains in transport mode (also known as Flight mode). To properly activate the ConBox LTE data connection and take the vehicle out of transport mode, the specialized VAS 6154 wireless diagnostic head is required. Older diagnostic tools, such as the VAS 5054, cannot correctly communicate with this new control unit due to a different diagnostic protocol. If the VAS 6154 is not used, the ConBox will not exit transport mode, leading to the P169A00 and U13EB00 DTCs, and potentially U142100 in the gateway module.

Repair Procedure Summary

Until a planned ODIS and Audi Brand software update (around CW45/18) is released, a specific procedure must be followed to deactivate transport mode and resolve the Audi connect user management greyed out issue. This temporary solution is part of the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Checklist.

1. Access diagnostic address 0075 in the vehicle's self-diagnosis system.
2. Navigate to "Adaption values" and then select "Basis connect function".
3. Change the setting for "Flight mode" to "Deactivate".
4. Confirm the change by hitting "Apply".
5. Cycle the ignition off and then back on.
6. Return to the self-diagnosis system, go to DTC readout for diagnostic address 0075, and clear any stored DTCs.
7. Cycle the ignition off and then back on once more.
8. Verify that the SOS light is now green and that the Audi connect user management option is selectable.

If the problem persists after these steps, disconnect the diagnostic tester, ensure all windows are rolled up, close all doors, and lock the vehicle for 2-3 minutes. This allows the car to enter a sleep cycle. After this, retry steps 4-6 of the procedure.

Required Tools

To properly diagnose and resolve this issue, the following specialized diagnostic tool is required:

• VAS 6154 wireless diagnostic head: This tool is essential for communicating with the new J949 ConBox module and correctly deactivating transport mode. Older diagnostic heads will not function correctly.

Important Warnings

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 90 22 46 2052299/4) is informational only and is not applicable for coverage under any Audi Warranty. Owners should be aware that this TSB supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 90 number 18-05 dated October 23, 2018, which addressed similar issues.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a greyed-out Audi connect user management screen, issues with key user pairing, or a non-functional SOS button in your 2021-2022 Audi, it is recommended to visit an authorized Audi service center. Technicians will utilize the specific diagnostic tools and procedures outlined in this TSB to resolve the transport mode activation and restore full functionality to your Audi connect system.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 10208481