2022-2024 Audi Parking Aid Sensor Bracket Separation TSB

Symptoms of Audi Parking Aid Sensor Bracket Separation

Owners of 2022-2024 Audi vehicles may experience several issues related to the Audi parking aid sensor bracket separation. These include:

• The rear parking aid sensor providing "false warnings".
• The sensor appearing "missing from the rear bumper".
• A general "warning is displayed for the rear parking aid system".
• "false detection of obstacles" by the parking aid system.

These symptoms occur when the sensor's retaining plate detaches from the rear apron, leading to unreliable parking assistance.

What's Causing the Issue?

According to Audi, the primary cause of the Audi parking aid sensor bracket separation is insufficient adhesive strength of the original parking aid bracket. Over time, this can lead to one or more sensor mounts separating from the rear apron.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has provided specific instructions and warnings for this repair:

• Rear Apron Replacement: If a sensor mount is "missing or damaged", the entire rear apron will need to be replaced, rather than just re-bonding the bracket. This is a critical distinction to prevent improper repairs.
• Adhesive Application: When applying new adhesive, the first 3-5 cm from the mixing nozzle must be discarded as it may not be properly mixed. This ensures the adhesive performs as intended.
• Drying Time: After bonding, a minimum drying time of 30 minutes is required. During this period, the rear apron must be left undisturbed and must not be moved to allow for proper curing.
• Part Numbers: Only use the specific part numbers listed in this TSB for repair; these supersede any parts listed in ETKA. Using incorrect parts will not resolve the issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Audi parking aid sensor bracket separation involves re-attaching the loose sensor mounts to the rear bumper. The high-level steps are:

1. Preparation: Technicians must first remove the rear bumper cover according to the repair manual. The bonding surfaces of the rear apron and the affected sensor brackets are then cleaned with plastic cleaner (D 009 401 04) and lightly sanded/scuffed.
2. Priming: A thin coating of plastic primer (D 822 150 A1) is applied to the prepared surfaces and allowed to dry for 10 minutes.
3. Tool Setup: A special tool, VAS 6614C, is utilized. This tool set includes various holders designed to accommodate different size PDC sensors, ensuring proper centering and clamping of the mounts.
4. Mount Alignment: The parking aid bracket is slid onto the centering pin of the VAS 6614C tool and pushed through the rear apron. A counter hold tool is then used to slightly tighten a knurled nut, and the bracket is aligned with specific markings on the rear apron.
5. Bonding: Plastic adhesive (D 180 KU2 A1) is applied to the marked areas between the parking aid bracket and the rear apron. It's crucial to discard the initial portion of the adhesive from the mixing nozzle to ensure proper mixture.
6. Compression: The knurled nut on the special tool is tightened to compress the mounts onto the spoiler/apron, ensuring a secure bond. This step is repeated for all affected brackets.
7. Curing: A minimum drying time of 30 minutes is observed, during which the rear apron must remain undisturbed. This allows the adhesive to fully cure.
8. Reassembly and Verification: After the drying period, the special tool is removed, and the rear bumper cover is re-installed. Finally, the parking aid system's operation is confirmed to ensure the repair was successful.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform this repair, Audi workshops will use specific tools and parts, as outlined in the TSB:

• Plastic Adhesive: D 180 KU2 A1 (Quantity: 1)
• Primer: D 822 150 A1 (Quantity: 0.1)
• Plastic Cleaner: D 009 401 04 or equivalent (isopropyl alcohol) (Quantity: 0.1)
• PDC Holder Tool Set: VAS 6614C
• Hand Cartridge Gun: VAS 5155
• VAS Tester: VAS 6160 / VAS 6150 (with the current version of ODIS)
• Fasteners: As needed per the repair manual (See ETKA/ELSA)

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty program, provided the vehicle meets the specified conditions:

• Claim Type: 110 for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, or G10 for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles (owner verification required).
• Service Number: 9175
• Damage Code: 0018
• Labor Operations:
  • Remove and install rear bumper cover: 6369 19xx
  • Re-attach 1 sensor bracket: 9175 4999 (50 TU)
  • Re-attach each additional sensor bracket (up to 3): 9175 5099 (20 TU, max 60 TU)
• Diagnostic Time: GFF 0150 0000 (Max 50 TU)
• Road Test: No allowance for road tests before or after the service procedure.
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2068573/2.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10238189