2021-2022 Audi Connect User Management and SOS Fault TSB

Symptoms of Audi Connect User Management and SOS Fault

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may experience issues with their Audi Connect services, including a greyed-out "User management" screen or a non-functional SOS emergency call system. These problems indicate an underlying communication issue within the vehicle's telematics system, often related to the Audi e-tron user management feature.

Specific symptoms include:

• The Audi connect "User management" screen appears greyed out, preventing key user pairing.
• The SOS emergency button is red or flashing red, indicating a malfunction.
• Pressing the SOS button displays the message: "Your subscription for the emergency call service has expired. For information on renewal options, please contact your Audi dealer or visit the Audi website."

Fault Codes (DTCs)

When diagnosing the Audi e-tron user management fault or SOS system issues, technicians may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the vehicle's system:

Code	Description	Module
P169A00	Transport mode active	ECM
U13EB00	Emergency call module and communication unit Flight mode activated	J949

It's important to note that a previously associated DTC, U142100, was removed from this bulletin in a prior revision. For information regarding U142100, refer to TSB 2056076.

Diagnosis and Technical Background

The root cause of the Audi e-tron user management and SOS system problems often lies in the vehicle's telematics system remaining in "transport mode" or "flight mode." This mode is intended for vehicle delivery but can prevent proper function of connected services if not deactivated.

Starting with Model Year 2019, Audi vehicles are equipped with a new telematics module called the "Control Module for Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit, J949," also known as the Connectivity Box or "ConBox." This module, identified by diagnostic address 0075 and PR Code IW3, handles Key User Pairing, Remote Services, SOS, and Roadside features. The ConBox supports LTE connectivity, a significant upgrade from the previous 3G GSM capable gateway.

To properly diagnose and deactivate transport mode in the ConBox, a specific diagnostic tool, the VAS 6154 wireless diagnostic head, is required. Older diagnostic tools like the VAS 5054 cannot properly communicate with this newer control unit due to its diagnostic protocol. If the VAS 6154 is not used, the ConBox may remain in transport mode, leading to the P169A00 and U13EB00 DTCs. For Model Year 2023 vehicles experiencing similar issues with the ConBox, refer to TSB 2069329.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi e-tron user management fault involves deactivating the "Flight mode" in the ConBox module and clearing any stored DTCs. The procedure, typically performed by a qualified technician using a VAS 6154 diagnostic tool, includes the following steps:

1. Deactivate Flight Mode: Access diagnostic address 0075 (ConBox) and navigate to "Self-diagnosis" > "Adaptation values" > "Basis connect function" > "Flight mode" and set it to "Deactivate."
2. Apply Changes: Confirm the deactivation.
3. Ignition Cycle: Turn the ignition off, then back on.
4. Clear DTCs: Perform a DTC readout for diagnostic address 00175 and clear any stored codes.
5. Second Ignition Cycle: Turn the ignition off, then back on again.
6. Verify Functionality: Check if the SOS light is green and if the Audi connect User management option is now selectable.
7. Troubleshooting (If Issue Persists): If the problem continues, disconnect the diagnostic tester, roll up all windows, 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.

Important Warnings

This Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only and is not applicable to any Audi warranty. Owners should be aware that repairs related to this issue may not be covered under standard warranty terms.

What Owners Should Do

If you are experiencing a greyed-out "User management" screen, a red or flashing SOS button, or the "Your subscription for the emergency call service has expired" message in your 2021-2022 Audi, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi service center. Explain the symptoms and mention the possibility of a "transport mode" or "flight mode" issue, referencing Audi TSB 2052299/6. The repair requires specialized diagnostic equipment and should be performed by trained technicians.

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NHTSA ID: 10231575