2021-2022 Audi AC Not Cooling TSB P053000 P251500

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2068460/3), issued on April 10, 2023, addresses a common problem where the air conditioning system in various 2021-2022 Audi models fails to cool the cabin. This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 87 number 23-38, dated January 31, 2023.

Symptoms

The primary symptom owners will notice is that the air conditioning system does not cool the cabin. This condition may be intermittent, meaning the AC might work sometimes and fail at others. This directly impacts cabin comfort, especially in warmer climates.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing the Audi e-tron AC not cooling issue, technicians will typically find one or both of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the Thermal management control unit, J1024 (address word 00C5):

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The issue is confirmed if the air conditioning system fails to cool the cabin and the aforementioned DTCs are present. The root cause is a failure of the sensor electronics in the pressure and temperature sensor (part number 4M0959603), leading to an inaccurate pressure evaluation. Sensors manufactured before Calendar Week 31, 2021, specifically those identified as G395 or G827, are at issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi e-tron AC not cooling problem, technicians are instructed to inspect and potentially replace the affected pressure sensors. The procedure involves checking all pressure sensors in the refrigerant circuit that have the base part number 4M0959603. The critical factor is the sensor's build date; any sensor manufactured before Calendar Week 31, 2021, should be replaced.

Technicians must carefully inspect the markings on the sensor, as shown in Figure 1 of the Technical Service Bulletin. An improved sensor, produced after Calendar Week 31, 2021, will have an 'E' index, a green dot on the connector housing, and a laser marking on the aluminum housing. If a sensor lacks these indicators or has an older build date, it requires replacement. An improved sensor has been implemented in production to prevent this issue in newer vehicles.

Required Parts

The primary component required for this repair is the updated pressure and temperature sensor. The specific part number is 4M0959603E. Depending on the vehicle configuration, one to three of these sensors may be needed.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type G10 applies, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle falls outside these warranty parameters, the Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only. The service number for this repair is 8757, with a damage code of 0040. Various labor operation codes are specified depending on the specific Audi model and components involved, such as 8757 1900 for pressure switch removal and reinstallation, and 8703 1750 for refrigerant drain and fill.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2022 Audi is experiencing the AC not cooling symptom or you suspect a related issue, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them of the symptoms and mention the possibility of Diagnostic Trouble Codes P053000 or P251500. The dealership will perform the necessary diagnosis and replace the affected pressure sensors if required, under warranty if applicable.

SOURCE: NHTSA ID: 10234583