2021-2023 Audi High Beam Assist and Traffic Sign Detection TSB

Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2059201/6, issued on April 13, 2023, addresses concerns related to the high beam assist and traffic sign detection systems in various 2021-2023 Audi models. This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 96 number 22-77, dated April 14, 2022.

The TSB specifically details instances where the instrument cluster displays warning messages and a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C12B3FD may be stored in the DAS control module, also known as the J1121 control module.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe the following messages appearing in the instrument cluster, typically shortly after the vehicle is started:

• "High beam assist currently not available. Camera view restricted because of environmental factors."
• "Traffic sign detection: currently not available. Camera view restricted because of environmental factors."

Fault Codes / DTCs

For most affected vehicles, the following diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be stored in the front camera for the driver assist systems control module, J1121 (address word 00A5):

Code	Description	Symptom Code
C12B3FD	Front camera for driver assist systems - temporary view restriction	221284

It is important to note that for Audi A3 models, a DTC may not be stored even if the instrument cluster messages appear.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The Audi high beam assist C12B3FD issue arises when the front camera detects a visibility restriction for more than 77 seconds. This restriction can be caused by environmental factors such as fogging or condensation on the camera's viewing area.

When the visibility restriction is detected, the DTC C12B3FD with symptom code 221284 is logged in the control module, and the warning messages appear in the instrument cluster. Once the visibility is restored, the messages typically disappear, and the systems become available again, with the DTC becoming sporadic.

Audi vehicles are equipped with a heating element under the front camera's cover to maintain unobstructed visibility. This element activates at low temperatures or when restricted visibility is detected to prevent fogging.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi high beam assist C12B3FD and related warnings, the TSB outlines a straightforward approach focusing on the front camera's visibility:

1. Explain Camera Heating: Technicians should inform customers about the front camera's heating function and how it works to prevent fogging.
2. Inspect Camera Viewing Area: Owners are advised to inspect the viewing area of the front camera for any obstructions, fogging, or condensation, both from the inside and outside of the vehicle. Figures in the original bulletin illustrate examples of fogged-up camera views.
3. Utilize Wiper System: Often, external obstructions or fogging can be cleared by simply activating the vehicle's wiper system.
4. Clean Lens Hood (if necessary): If the front camera frequently fogs up from the inside, removing its lens hood to clean and dry the viewing area of the camera can help resolve the recurring issue.

Warranty Information

This service bulletin provides specific guidelines for warranty claims:

• Claim Type 110: Applicable for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles.
• Claim Type G10: For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, owners must be verified.

If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Service Number: 9638 Damage Code: 0010

Labor Operations:

• Remove and install camera for assistance systems (lens hood): 9638 1999 (20 Time Units)
• Clean and dry windscreen: 6410 2999 (10 Time Units)

Diagnostic Time: GFF (0150 0000) - Time stated on the diagnostic protocol (Maximum 25 Time Units).

Road Test:

• Prior to service procedure: 0121 0002 (0 Time Units)
• After service procedure: 0121 0004 (0 Time Units)

Claim Comment: As per TSB 2059201/6.

Additional Information

All part and service references in this TSB (2059201) are subject to change. Technicians should always consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and check the Repair Manual for fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws requiring replacement during the repair.

NHTSA ID: 10234549