2023-2026 Audi Instrument Cluster Scratches, Film, or Particles

Owners of 2023-2026 Audi vehicles may experience issues with their instrument cluster display, including Audi instrument cluster scratches, a hazy coating, or visible particles inside the housing. This problem, detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2073747/1, outlines the potential causes and the appropriate service actions to address these cosmetic concerns.

Symptoms

According to Audi TSB 2073747/1, customers typically report one of three distinct issues affecting their instrument cluster display:

• Scratches: Visible marks or abrasions on the display lens.
• Coating/Film: A hazy or grey film on the display lens, which may appear to be on the inside.
• Particles: Small dust or dirt particles visible inside the instrument cluster housing.

Technical Background

Audi acknowledges that these issues can arise from various factors. Scratches on the display lens can occur during the manufacturing process or handling. A 'grey haze' coating or film may form due to vapors released from materials used in the protective film applied during production, which can appear to be on the inside of the display lens. Furthermore, the instrument cluster is not hermetically sealed. It requires ventilation openings for heat dissipation and passages for controls, which can allow small particles to enter the housing, especially in dusty environments or when cleaning with compressed air.

Important Warranty Information

Audi TSB 2073747/1 includes several important warnings regarding warranty claims and repair procedures for Audi instrument cluster scratches, coating, and particles. Owners should be aware of the following conditions:

• Mileage Limitation for Scratches: "Warranty claims will only be accepted for instrument clusters with scratches that have a mileage of less than 621 miles, which must be proven with a photo that also includes the scratches." If your vehicle has traveled more than 621 miles, "Instrument clusters with a mileage higher than 621 miles will be charged back."
• Coating/Film Replacement Chargeback: "Instrument clusters that have been replaced due to a coating on the cover glass will be charged back as part of the repair process." This implies cleaning is the preferred method for coating issues.
• Mileage Limitation for Particles: Similar to scratches, "Instrument clusters replaced with a mileage higher than 621 miles will be charged back" if the claim is for production residue particles. Claims for particles must also include a photo attached to DOC-IT.
• Cleaning Product Restrictions: For coating/film issues, "The use of other cleaning products is not permitted. In particular, cleaning products containing alcohol, isopropanol or similar are not suitable and must not be used." Only water and regular household detergent are approved.

These conditions highlight the importance of addressing these issues promptly and ensuring proper documentation for any warranty claims.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in Audi TSB 2073747/1 varies depending on the specific issue:

• For Scratches: If the instrument cluster display lens has scratches, the entire instrument cluster must be replaced. Polishing is not an option as it can cause permanent damage.
• For Coating/Film: The hazy coating or film can be removed by carefully cleaning the display cover. Technicians are instructed to use a mixture of water and regular household detergent, sprayed onto the display cover while installed, and then wiped with a soft, clean cloth. It's crucial to avoid scratching the surface during this process. This cleaning method applies even if the coating appears to be on the inside of the cover.
• For Particles: If particles are found inside the instrument cluster housing, the instrument cluster must be replaced. The document specifies that the instrument cluster cannot be opened in the field without invalidating the warranty.

All visual complaints must be documented with photographs and attached to Audi's DOC-IT system before any service is performed.

Claim Information

For warranty claims related to these instrument cluster issues, Audi specifies certain claim types and labor operations under TSB 2073747/1. Claims are generally accepted for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, or for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles under the G10 claim type. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, the bulletin serves as informational guidance.

The specific labor operations are:

• Scratches (Replacement): Service Number 9025, Damage Code 0030, Labor Operation 9025 XXXX.
• Coating (Cleaning): Service Number 9025, Damage Code 0030, Labor Operation 9025 2999 (20 Time Units).
• Particles (Replacement): Service Number 9025, Damage Code 0030, Labor Operation 9025 XXXX.

Diagnostic time is recorded as GFF 0150 0060, up to a maximum of 100 Time Units. No allowance is provided for road tests before or after the service procedure. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10254039