2021-2022 Audi e-tron Battery Module Software Update TSB 93N6

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 93N6, titled "Software Update for Battery Modules Control Unit – (NVLW)," to address a proactive software update for certain 2021-2022 Audi e-tron vehicles. This update aims to improve the efficiency and longevity of the high-voltage battery system by optimizing cell balancing and stabilizing cell voltage measurements.

The 93N6 UPDATE is crucial because electric vehicle battery systems consist of many individual cells, each with slight variations in capacity and voltage. Without proper balancing, the overall system capacity is limited by the weakest cell, and individual cells can become overloaded, leading to premature aging and reduced battery life. This software update specifically targets a potential error in cell voltage measurement that could affect the balancing function.

Why this Audi e-tron Battery Update Matters

The primary purpose of this Audi e-tron battery update is to prevent potential long-term degradation of the high-voltage battery. By ensuring accurate cell voltage measurement and optimizing the balancing function, the software helps maintain the health and performance of the battery pack. This proactive measure helps avoid issues such as reduced battery capacity and accelerated aging of individual cells.

Important Warnings and Prerequisites

Audi has outlined several critical warnings and prerequisites that must be followed during the 93N6 UPDATE procedure to ensure a successful update and prevent damage to vehicle components:

• Prior Recalls: If the 93V2 or 93U9 safety recalls are open for your vehicle, they must be completed before the 93N6 update. Performing the 93N6 update first will erase historical high-voltage battery data, which could lead to inaccurate evaluation if the 93V2 or 93U9 recalls are subsequently performed.
• Diagnostic Tool Usage: The software update must be performed using the "Audi Flashing" process within the ODIS diagnostic software, not through "Guided Fault Finding (GFF)." Using GFF can significantly prolong the update process and may result in warranty claims being denied.
• Connection Method: The VAS Diagnostics Interface MUST ONLY be connected to the diagnostic tester with a USB cable. Using a Bluetooth or WiFi connection for this action is PROHIBITED due to the increased risk of losing connection, which could damage the control module. Any damage resulting from Bluetooth or WiFi use will not be covered by warranty.
• Radiator Fan Safety: During the update process, the radiator fan(s) may cycle on at high speed. There is a serious risk of personal injury if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Always keep hands and all objects clear of the radiator fan(s).
• Battery Voltage: A battery charger must be connected to the vehicle battery and remain connected throughout the update. The battery voltage must stay above 12.5 volts. Failure to maintain adequate voltage can cause the update to fail and potentially damage the control module, which will not be covered under warranty.
• Customer Presets: It is recommended to document any customer presets before the update, as these settings may be lost.

Repair Procedure Summary

The Audi e-tron battery update procedure involves several steps performed by a qualified technician using specialized diagnostic equipment:

1. Preparation: The technician will open the vehicle's hood and battery cover. A GRX3000VAS Tester/Charger (or equivalent) is connected to the vehicle's battery in power supply mode, ensuring continuous voltage. The positive cable connects to the battery's positive terminal, and the negative cable connects to the chassis grounding lug, not directly to the battery's negative terminal.
2. Hazard Lights Activation: The vehicle's hazard warning lights are switched on. This is a critical step to prevent the system from entering bus sleep mode during the update, which could interrupt the process.
3. Diagnostic Tool Setup: A VAS6150X/VAS6160X Diagnostic Tester (or equivalent) is connected to the vehicle via a USB cable. The ODIS program is then started.
4. Software Update Initiation: The technician confirms that the scan tool is communicating via USB. If Bluetooth or WiFi is detected, the connection is re-established using a USB cable. From the ODIS home screen, the "Flash" option is selected, and the on-screen prompts are followed.
5. SVM Code Entry: The technician selects "Starting Flashing" and then "No RO" (Repair Order). They then navigate to "SVM – Code Input" and select "Perform test." The specific corrective action code, 93N6A268, is entered.
6. Update Execution and Confirmation: After entering the SVM code and accepting the prompts, the software update commences. Once the flash procedure is successfully completed, the technician selects "Send" to transmit the diagnostic protocol online, confirming the update.
7. Bus Sleep Mode: To clear any event memory entries generated during the flashing process, the vehicle is put into bus sleep mode. This involves disconnecting the diagnostic tester, removing the key from the vehicle, and locking the vehicle with the remote for six minutes.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the 93N6 UPDATE, Audi dealerships require specific specialized tools:

• GRX3000VAS Battery Tester/Charger (or equivalent)
• VAS6150X/VAS6160X Diagnostic Tester (or equivalent)

Warranty Information

This 93N6 UPDATE is typically covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Dealers are instructed to verify vehicle eligibility using the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen. The service number for this update is 93N6, with a damage code of 0099 and parts vendor code 002. The causal indicator should be marked as "causal."

Labor operations for this update include:

• 2706 89 50: Connect battery charger (10 Time Units)
• 9301 25 99: Update battery module control module software (Time stated on diagnostic protocol)
• 9035 33 99: Activate bus sleep mode (10 Time Units)

Dealers are advised not to claim for vehicle wash/loaner services under this action. For any questions regarding claim entry, Audi Warranty should be contacted. Customers should be notified in writing of all work performed, including this update.

NHTSA ID: 10250340