2022-2026 Audi Apple CarPlay Audio Takeover TSB

Owners of 2022-2026 Audi vehicles equipped with Audi Wireless ASI and Apple devices may experience an unexpected Audi Apple CarPlay audio takeover, where CarPlay either pops up on the screen or takes control of the vehicle's audio system without user input. This behavior, outlined in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 24 68 2072959/1, can interrupt radio, media player, or navigation use.

Symptoms

Owners may notice the following symptoms:

• Apple CarPlay unexpectedly displays in the foreground on the MMI screen.
• Apple CarPlay takes over the vehicle's audio system without user intervention.
• A message stating "Smartphone interface deactivated" may briefly appear on the MMI screen if the iPhone loses and then re-establishes connection.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The TSB identifies several potential causes for the unexpected Audi Apple CarPlay audio takeover:

• iPhone Connection Loss: If the iPhone temporarily loses its connection to the vehicle and then reconnects, the MMI may switch to CarPlay after a few seconds. This is considered expected behavior.
• Third-Party App Activity: Background activity from third-party applications on the iPhone can trigger CarPlay to appear on the MMI. Even apps not directly supported by CarPlay or relevant to in-car use can cause this. An example cited is "Amazon Music" when "Alexa hands-free control" is enabled.
• iPhone Notifications: When "A notification is displayed on the iPhone," some applications support sending these notifications via Apple CarPlay. While the MMI screen should return to its previous context within a few seconds, frequent notifications can be disruptive.

Important Warnings

Audi's TSB 91 24 68 2072959/1 serves as a troubleshooting guide. It is crucial to note that if other TSBs addressing the customer's specific complaint are published, those TSBs should take precedence. This bulletin is for informational purposes only and does not apply to any Audi Warranty.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi Apple CarPlay audio takeover issue, the TSB suggests several steps focusing on iPhone settings and app management:

1. Update iOS: Ensure the customer's iPhone has the latest iOS version installed.
2. Disable CarPlay Auto-Start: To prevent CarPlay from automatically starting after a connection loss or vehicle startup, owners can adjust iPhone settings. Navigate to "Settings>General>CarPlay," select the vehicle, and then "Switch off radio button 'CarPlay'." After this, Apple CarPlay must be manually selected in the MMI.
3. Manage iPhone Apps: To improve the security and stability of iPhone usage and reduce unexpected CarPlay activations:
   • Verify all installed apps are updated to their latest software versions.
   • Uninstall any apps that are no longer used.
   • Review app permissions, removing any that are not essential for the app's intended use.
   • Check background activity for all apps and disable it for those not requiring it.
   • Review and switch off unnecessary app notifications.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing an Audi Apple CarPlay audio takeover in your 2022-2026 Audi, begin by checking your iPhone's iOS version and updating it if necessary. Next, follow the steps outlined above to disable CarPlay's auto-start feature and manage your iPhone's applications and notification settings. If the issue persists after these adjustments, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer for further diagnosis, referencing TSB 91 24 68 2072959/1.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10250336