2021-2022 Audi Connect User Management Greyed Out TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may experience one or more of the following issues related to the Audi connect user management system or emergency services:

• 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.
• When the SOS button is pressed, the infotainment system 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

These symptoms are typically accompanied by specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the vehicle's system:

Diagnosis and Technical Background

Starting with Model Year 2019, Audi vehicles utilize a new telematics module known as the "Control Module for Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit, J949," often referred to as the ConBox. This module, located at diagnostic address 0075, handles key user pairing, remote services, SOS, and roadside assistance features. The ConBox supports LTE connectivity, a significant upgrade from the previous 3G GSM capable gateway.

To properly activate the ConBox's LTE data connection and take the vehicle out of transport mode, a specific diagnostic tool, the VAS 6154 wireless diagnostic head, is required. Older diagnostic heads, 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 may remain in transport mode (Flight mode), leading to the aforementioned DTCs P169A00 and U142100.

Important Warnings and Information

• This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 91 23 72 2052299/7) is for informational purposes only and is not applicable to any Audi warranty.
• If your vehicle is a Model Year 2023 and experiences flight mode issues, please refer to TSB 2069329 (91 ConBox - Flight mode resets on its own after having been successfully removed at PDI (DTC U13EB00)).
• Do not use older diagnostic tools (e.g., VAS 5054) to address the ConBox. This will not resolve the issue and will result in the ConBox remaining in transport mode, setting DTCs P169A00 and U142100.

Repair Procedure Summary

The resolution involves deactivating the flight mode within the ConBox (J949) using the appropriate diagnostic equipment. The general steps are as follows:

1. Access diagnostic address 0075 via Self-diagnosis.
2. Navigate to Adaptation values, then Basis connect function, and select Flight mode to Deactivate.
3. Apply the changes.
4. Cycle the vehicle's ignition off and then back on.
5. Perform a DTC readout for diagnostic address 0075 and clear any stored DTCs.
6. Cycle the ignition off and then back on again.
7. Verify that the SOS light is green and that the Audi connect user management option is now selectable.
8. If the issue persists, 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.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a greyed-out Audi connect user management screen, an inoperative SOS button, or any of the described warning messages, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. They have the specialized diagnostic tools (VAS 6154) and technical knowledge to correctly diagnose and resolve the transport mode issue in your vehicle's ConBox.