2021-2026 Audi/VW Warning Sign Part Update SM 45-2025

Audi and Volkswagen have issued Special Notice SM 45-2025, an internal communication for parts managers regarding a change in part numbers for certain "Warning Sign" components. This notice, dated August 26, 2025, outlines procedures for dealerships to return older inventory and order updated parts. This 2023 Audi e-tron manufacturer_communication is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that all vehicles, including various Audi and Volkswagen models from 2021 to 2026, are serviced with the most current and correct parts available.

Why This Parts Update Matters

This Special Notice SM 45-2025 is crucial for maintaining the quality and accuracy of parts inventory within Audi and Volkswagen dealerships. By updating part numbers, the manufacturer ensures that any "Warning Sign" components installed during service or repair are the latest version. This process helps prevent the use of superseded parts and guarantees that customers receive the most up-to-date components for their vehicles. For owners of a 2023 Audi e-tron, this means any necessary part replacements will utilize the most current component available.

Affected Part Numbers

The notice specifically identifies two part numbers related to a "Warning Sign" component. The original part number that dealers are instructed to return is 1EA-010-505. This part is being replaced by an updated version, which has the new part number 1EA-010-505-B.

Dealer Instructions for Returns

Dealerships are required to return their inventory of the older part number, 1EA-010-505, to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) no later than September 16, 2025. The process involves several steps for dealers to ensure they receive credit for the returned items:

1. File a Claim: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return." When selecting the item type, they should choose "Dir Sup. Req. Return."
2. Add Comments: Complete the dealer comments section by referencing the Special Notice Number (SM 45-2025) and the Parts Circular number.
3. Review Delivery List: The following day, dealers should review "Parts On Command" for the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays should be communicated to their facing PDC.
4. Prepare Return Label: Enter the specific 40000XXXXX delivery document number onto a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label."
5. Package and Ship: Adhere the "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label" to the package(s) containing the returned parts. Include one copy of the Delivery Document with the returned part(s).

Important Warnings for Dealerships

Dealerships must adhere strictly to the return deadline. The notice explicitly states: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This means any 1EA-010-505 parts received by the PDC after September 16, 2025, will not be processed for credit or buyback.

Re-ordering New Parts

After returning the superseded inventory, dealerships should re-order any required new materials using the updated part number, 1EA-010-505-B. This ensures that all future installations of this "Warning Sign" component utilize the latest available version, benefiting customers with models like the 2023 Audi e-tron.

NHTSA ID: 11022719