2023-2026 Audi CarPlay Disconnects TSB

Symptoms of CarPlay Disconnection

Owners of various 2023-2026 Audi models may experience their Apple CarPlay connection disconnecting unexpectedly. This often manifests as the message "Smartphone interface deactivated" appearing periodically on the infotainment screen. When the Audi e-tron CarPlay disconnects, the connection typically re-establishes shortly afterward. However, it may sometimes take over the audio playback, interrupting radio or other media sources.

This behavior can occur multiple times within a short period, regardless of the vehicle's location. The issue is specifically reproducible when using an Apple iPhone and is not observed with Android devices using Android Auto.

Technical Explanation

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 91 24 21 2074302/1 explains that the unexpected Apple CarPlay disconnections are due to a bug within the current iOS version (specifically iOS 17.*) used as the operating system on iPhones. This bug can interrupt the connection to the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) if CarPlay is running in the background while other audio or navigation functions are active in the foreground.

Once disconnected, the iPhone typically reconnects within a few seconds. The decision of when the iPhone appears in the foreground or takes over as the audio source after reconnecting is controlled by the phone itself. Audi notes that a change in behavior is planned with iOS version 18.*. It is crucial to understand that this type of complaint, where the Audi e-tron CarPlay disconnects, is explicitly stated by Audi as not caused by the vehicle.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued several important advisories regarding this Apple CarPlay disconnection issue:

• No Vehicle Repair Available: "Do not perform any repairs. Any repairs for this concern may be denied." The problem is not with the Audi vehicle itself, so attempting repairs on the vehicle will not resolve the issue and may not be covered under warranty.
• Third-Party Device Issue: Owners should be informed that this condition is known and is caused by a third-party device (Apple iPhone). "No repair solution can be offered by the vehicle manufacturer."
• Not Covered by Warranty: "This concern is due to a third-party system and is not covered by any Audi Warranty." Owners should not expect Audi to cover costs associated with this issue.
• Software Update Recommendation: Audi recommends that owners "always update mobile devices to the most current available software level." This is the primary action suggested to potentially mitigate or resolve the issue once Apple releases a fix.

What Owners Can Do

If you are experiencing your Audi e-tron CarPlay disconnects, the primary recommendation from Audi is to ensure your iPhone's operating system is updated to the most current available software level. Since the issue is identified as an iOS bug, future iOS updates, particularly iOS 18.*, are expected to address this behavior. There is no action required or available at an Audi dealership for this specific concern, as it is not a vehicle fault.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11003006, Manufacturer Communication: 91 24 21 2074302/1