2022-2024 Audi Parking Aid Sensor Bracket Separation TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2022-2024 Audi vehicles, including the Audi e-tron, may experience issues with their rear parking aid sensors. The most common complaints include the rear parking aid sensor providing false warnings, feeling loose, or displaying a general warning for the rear parking aid system. These symptoms indicate a potential problem with the sensor's mounting.

Upon inspection, technicians often find that the retaining plate for the parking sensor has come loose from the rear apron. This separation directly impacts the sensor's ability to accurately detect obstacles, leading to the reported false warnings and system malfunctions.

Technical Background

The root cause of this issue, as identified in Audi TSB 2068573/3, is insufficient adhesive strength of the parking aid bracket. Over time, this can lead to one or more of the sensor mounts detaching from the rear apron. When the mounts begin to separate, the parking aid sensor(s) may start to issue false warnings, compromising the reliability of the parking assistance system.

Important Warnings

When addressing this issue, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure a proper repair. The TSB notes: "If multiple brackets are loose, ensure each bracket stays in the same position. Each mount needs to be re-bonded in the same position and orientation to the rear apron."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 2068573/3 involves re-attaching the parking aid sensor brackets to the rear bumper using specialized adhesives and tools. The process begins with removing the rear bumper cover to access the affected areas. Old adhesive tape is then removed, and the bonding surfaces on both the rear apron and the brackets are lightly sanded and scuffed to prepare them for new adhesive.

Next, the surfaces are thoroughly cleaned using plastic cleaner D 009 401 04 or an equivalent like isopropyl alcohol, followed by a 5-minute drying period. A thin coating of primer D 822 150 A1 is applied to both the rear apron and the bracket, requiring a 10-minute drying time. All affected brackets are prepared up to this priming step before bonding.

For the bonding process, special tool VAS 6614C, a PDC holder tool set, is used to center and clamp the mounts precisely. Plastic adhesive D 180 KU2 A1 is then applied. It's important to discard the first 3-5 cm of adhesive from the mixing nozzle to ensure proper mixing. A knurled nut is tightened to compress the mounts, ensuring a secure bond. A minimum drying time of 30 minutes is required before removing the jig, during which the rear apron must remain undisturbed. Finally, the rear bumper cover is re-installed, and the parking aid system's operation is confirmed.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform this repair, specific parts and tools are required:

• D180KU2A1: Plastic adhesive (Quantity: 1)
• D822150A1: Primer (Quantity: 0.1)
• D 00940104: Plastic cleaner or equivalent (isopropyl alcohol) (Quantity: 0.1)
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual (See ETKA/ELSA)
• VAS 6614C: PDC holder tool set
• VAS 5155: Hand cartridge gun
• VAS 6160/VAS 6150: VAS tester with the current version of ODIS (Windows 10)

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this repair should be submitted in accordance with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The service number for this repair is 9175, with a damage code of 0018. Labor operations include removing and installing the rear bumper cover (6369 19xx), re-attaching one sensor bracket (9175 4999), and re-attaching each additional sensor bracket (9175 5099). If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only.

NHTSA ID: 11007267