2022-2026 Audi Bluetooth iPhone Pairing Failure TSB

Owners of various 2022-2026 Audi models may experience difficulty with initial Bluetooth pairing or Apple CarPlay connection when using an iPhone. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 24 95 2076400/1, titled "91 ConBox High: Initial Bluetooth connection/pairing with iPhone fails," identifies a software issue as the root cause and provides a simple workaround for this common connectivity problem. If your Audi e-tron iPhone pairing fails, this document outlines the steps to resolve the issue.

Symptoms

Owners might notice several issues related to their iPhone's connectivity with their Audi vehicle. These symptoms specifically occur during the first attempt to connect or pair a device:

• "Initial Bluetooth pairing / first Bluetooth connection with iPhone fails."
• "iPhone cannot be found during Bluetooth search."
• "Initial connection with Apple CarPlay does not work."

These problems are typically observed during the initial setup of a new iPhone or after a system reset, preventing seamless integration with the vehicle's infotainment system.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Audi workshops have confirmed that the customer complaint can sometimes be reproduced, indicating an intermittent nature of the problem. Interestingly, connection attempts with an Android phone typically work on the first try, suggesting the issue is specific to iPhones. The core problem is identified as a software issue within the vehicle's ConBox High system, which handles Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay functionality. This TSB clarifies that the complaint occurs specifically during the initial pairing attempt between the phone and the vehicle.

Repair Procedure Summary

Since the issue stems from a software glitch rather than a hardware defect, the resolution involves a simple, repeated attempt at pairing. There are no parts to replace or complex repairs required. Technicians are advised to perform the following steps, which owners can also attempt:

1. Search for the Bluetooth device again: From your Audi's infotainment system, initiate a new search for Bluetooth devices.
2. Retry the initial pairing of the device: Attempt to pair your iPhone with the vehicle once more.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 several times: The TSB explicitly states that repeating the search and pairing process multiple times until successful is the recommended solution. This iterative approach helps overcome the initial software hurdle.

Important Warnings / What Owners Should Know

This TSB includes critical information for both technicians and owners:

• Repeated Attempts May Be Necessary: "The pairing process may take several attempts, depending on the iPhone model and operating system software." Owners should be patient and persistent when trying to connect their iPhone for the first time.
• Automatic Reconnection: "Once the initial connection is complete, the automatic connection ('reconnecting') should work the next time you get in the vehicle." This means the issue is primarily with the initial setup; subsequent connections should be seamless.
• No Parts Replacement Needed: "There is no reason to replace parts or attempt repairs. Unjustified labor/replacement parts will be charged back. Invoicing under warranty is not permitted." This is a crucial warning, preventing unnecessary repairs and costs. If your Audi e-tron iPhone pairing fails, do not allow a dealer to replace components.
• Informational TSB: "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This indicates that while Audi acknowledges the issue and provides a workaround, this specific procedure may not be covered under standard warranty claims for labor or parts, as no parts are being replaced.