2007-2025 Audi Exhaust Tailpipe Corrosion TSB 2042920/2

Symptoms

Owners of 2007-2025 Audi vehicles may observe several issues affecting the appearance of their exhaust tailpipes. These symptoms, as detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2042920/2, include visible Audi exhaust tailpipe corrosion or rust on the trim. The tailpipes might also appear excessively dirty, showing signs of general contamination, or specifically "contaminated with soot." Furthermore, the surface coating of the exhaust tailpipe trim, whether on the left or right side, may appear "flawed" or damaged, impacting the vehicle's aesthetic appeal.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

This condition, described as "Corrosion on exhaust tail pipes," is primarily attributed to environmental factors. The TSB explains that if road salt and other aggressive substances are allowed to stick to the exhaust tailpipes for extended periods, the surface can become damaged. This prolonged exposure leads to the tailpipes becoming very dirty, rusty, or corroded. The bulletin clarifies that there is no specific production solution for this issue, indicating it is not a manufacturing defect but rather a consequence of external environmental exposure.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in Audi TSB 2042920/2 focuses on customer education and proper maintenance. Technicians are instructed to inform customers that their exhaust tailpipes require regular cleaning to prevent and address the accumulation of corrosion and dirt. For effective cleaning, the bulletin specifies the use of a particular industrial cleaning solution or other suitable care products designed for stainless steel. This proactive cleaning helps to maintain the appearance and integrity of the exhaust tailpipe trim.

Required Parts

To effectively clean and maintain the exhaust tailpipes, Audi recommends the following specific product:

• Part Number: ABS 600 000 10
• Description: Industrial contamination remover
• Quantity: 1

This specialized cleaner is essential for removing industrial grime and other contaminants that contribute to the Audi exhaust tailpipe corrosion and dirty appearance.

Important Warnings

Audi explicitly states that claims related to this condition under warranty or goodwill are not permitted and will be rejected. This means that the presence of corrosion or excessive dirt on the exhaust tailpipes is considered a normal maintenance item resulting from environmental exposure, rather than a defect covered by the manufacturer's warranty. Owners should be aware that any costs associated with cleaning or addressing this issue will be their responsibility.

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) has undergone revisions to ensure its accuracy and comprehensive coverage:

• Revision 1 (March 1, 2016): This marked the initial publication of the TSB.
• Revision 2: This revision included updates to the header, specifically adding more models and model years to the scope of the bulletin. Additionally, the warranty verbiage was updated for greater clarity regarding coverage. The current release date for this bulletin is June 26, 2025.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 11020367, Transaction No. 2042920/2