2022-2026 Audi e-tron Pre Sense Restricted Function Icon

The 2022-2026 Audi e-tron, along with many other Audi models, may display a "pre sense restricted function icon" briefly after the engine starts. This visual cue can sometimes cause concern for vehicle owners, prompting questions about the safety system's functionality. However, Audi has clarified through Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2059891/5 that this is expected system behavior and not an indication of a malfunction. This TSB, issued on November 10, 2023, supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 90 number 23-10, dated March 8, 2023, providing updated information and reaffirming the normal nature of this occurrence.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles, including the 2022-2026 Audi e-tron, typically observe one of two symbols for "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" appearing on the instrument cluster. This icon remains visible for approximately 20 seconds after the engine is started before disappearing. In some models, the vehicle may need to be moved a short distance before the initialization indicator goes out. The appearance of this "Audi e-tron pre sense icon" is the primary symptom reported by customers.

Technical Background

The brief display of the "pre sense restricted function icon" is directly related to the startup sequence of the Audi pre sense system's front camera. The front camera for driver assist systems, identified as R242, requires about 20 seconds to fully initialize after the ignition is switched on. During this initialization period, the pre sense system is not fully operational, and the icon serves to inform the driver of this temporary state. For certain models, a velocity signal (meaning the vehicle needs to be moving) is also required for the R242 camera to complete its startup. This is considered normal operation.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi explicitly states that no repair is necessary for this condition. Owners should be aware of the following:

• "Do not perform any repairs. Any repairs for this concern may be denied." This means attempting to fix the "Audi e-tron pre sense icon" display will not resolve the situation and could lead to unnecessary costs.
• "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty." Since the condition is normal, it is not covered under warranty as a defect.
• The appearance of the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" icon is a normal part of the system's startup process.

What Owners Should Know

If you own a 2022-2026 Audi e-tron or another affected model and see the "pre sense restricted function icon" after starting your vehicle, there is no cause for concern. This brief illumination is simply the system's front camera (R242) initializing its functions. The icon will disappear once the camera is fully ready to operate, which typically occurs within 20 seconds or after moving the vehicle slightly. This behavior is by design and does not indicate a fault with your Audi pre sense system or suggest any compromise in its safety capabilities. It's an informational message, not a warning of a problem.

Additional Information

For technicians and those seeking more in-depth knowledge about the Audi Q7 Occupant Protection and Infotainment System, Self-Study Program (SSP) 970363 is referenced. This SSP provides further details on the system's operation and is a prerequisite for certain training modules related to the 2017 Q7.