2021-2024 Audi Connect GEN3: SOS LED Not Green, MMI Issues

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2024 Audi models equipped with Audi connect GEN3 may experience several issues, often noticed after the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). These symptoms indicate a problem with the Audi connect system's activation and pairing process. The primary concern is when the Audi e-tron SOS LED does not turn green.

Specific symptoms include:

• "Audi connect services do not function."
• "SOS LED is off or flashes red."
• "The Roadside button does not function when pressed."
• "The News and Weather Tiles are missing in the MMI."
• "The navigation satellite map view cannot be activated."

Technical Background

The 3rd Generation Audi connect system (GEN3) utilizes a "white label" SIM card that is not preregistered to any USA-specific mobile carrier at the factory. This differs from the GEN2 system, which had a preregistered AT&T SIM. For GEN3 vehicles, the SIM must undergo a "Registration and Pairing" (R&P) process after the vehicle's ConBox/OCU flight mode is deactivated.

This R&P process typically takes about 20 minutes under ideal conditions but can extend to 1-2 hours, depending on LTE signal strength, GPS reception, and backend system availability. The SOS light will turn green only after the embedded SIM (eSIM) successfully completes the R&P process and fully operates on Verizon's LTE network, which is Audi of America's preferred carrier for GEN3 in the USA.

The R&P process involves several steps:

1. Flight Mode Deactivation: The ConBox (telephone module and SIM) and OCU flight modes are deactivated during PDI or after driving at least 25 miles.
2. Initial Connection: The SIM attempts to connect to Cubic in Europe using a roaming data connection via AT&T or T-Mobile (Vodafone Roaming). Poor local signal can delay this step.
3. eSIM Profile Download: After registering with Cubic, the device receives an eSIM profile for Verizon.
4. Verizon Registration: The device disconnects from AT&T/T-Mobile and attempts to register on Verizon's LTE network. This step may require the vehicle to be in an area with strong Verizon service and potentially a long sleep cycle (30 minutes or more).
5. Network Confirmation: The Verizon profile is successfully downloaded, and the device informs Cubic it will always use the Verizon network.
6. Wi-Fi and Dealer Demo Mode Activation: Cubic activates the Wi-Fi profile and dealer demo mode in the Audi connect backend.
7. License Download: The MMI and Gateway modules download Audi connect licenses for PRIME and CARE, provided the car has received GPS reception. At this point, the Audi e-tron SOS LED should turn green.

Repair Procedure Summary

If the SOS light does not turn green after the initial PDI test drive or after a long sleep cycle, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Initial Activation Attempt: If the SOS light is still not green, allow the vehicle to sit outside with the ignition on for 20-30 minutes with the engine running.
2. Long Sleep Cycle: Perform a long sleep cycle of 5 minutes or more. To do this, disconnect any ODIS testers, roll up windows, close the hood and trunk, and lock the doors. This helps the car enter sleep mode faster.
3. Recheck Status: Turn the car on and check the status of the SOS light after 5-10 minutes.
4. Repeat: If the SOS light is still not green, repeat steps 1-3 a second time.
5. Capacitive Discharge: If the SOS light still does not turn green after repeating the steps, perform a capacitive discharge by disconnecting the vehicle's 12V battery from the vehicle electronics for at least 60 seconds.
6. Reconnect Battery: After 60 seconds or longer, reconnect the 12V battery and turn on the ignition.
7. Check eSIM Profile: Document the eSIM profile currently in use by the ConBox (or OCU for A3/Q3/Q4 models) using ODIS. Look for "Checking IMSI number" under "Guided Functions" for diagnostic address 0075.
   • A "Vodafone Bootstrap (Factory) Profile" will have a 20-digit IMSI starting with "8988".
   • A "Verizon Operation (Local) Profile" will have a 20-digit IMSI starting with "8914".
   • Take a screenshot or write down this value.
8. Contact Support: If the SOS light still does not turn green, open a web ticket with the Audi Digital Business Support Team at https://audi.zendesk.com/. Provide the IMSI number in your ticket.

Important Warnings

Audi advises against unnecessary component replacement during this process. Specifically, "It is no longer required to remove the backup battery from the ConBox as long as the capacitive discharge is performed for at least 60 seconds while there is no emergency or roadside call active in the vehicle. Removing the backup battery can damage the control unit due to electrostatic discharge." This prevents potential damage and ensures the correct troubleshooting procedure is followed.

What Owners Should Know

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2061028/5, superseding TSB 91 22-03) is primarily informational for dealers and relates to the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) process. It is not a recall and is not covered under typical Audi Warranty as a repair, but rather as a necessary part of preparing the vehicle for delivery. If you are experiencing issues with your Audi e-tron SOS LED or Audi connect services, contact your authorized Audi dealership. They are equipped to perform these activation and troubleshooting steps. Note that the web ticketing system for support is for dealer use only and requires a dealer email address for registration.

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Source: NHTSA ID 10241455