2019-2026 Audi Steering Wheel Heating Not Sufficient TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2065978/6 to provide clarification on concerns related to the steering wheel heating system in various 2019-2026 Audi models. This bulletin aims to inform technicians and owners about the expected performance and characteristics of the heated steering wheel, particularly when customers report that the heating is not sufficient or is uneven. The TSB emphasizes that many perceived issues are within the normal operating parameters of the system.

This informational TSB, identified as 2065978/6, does not outline a repair procedure but rather provides a technical background to help understand why the Audi steering wheel heating not sufficient complaint might arise. It helps manage expectations regarding the system's performance under different conditions.

Symptoms Owners May Notice

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may describe the following conditions related to their steering wheel heating:

• "The steering wheel does not heat up."
• "The steering wheel does not heat up sufficiently."
• "The steering wheel heats up unevenly."
• "It takes a long time for the steering wheel to heat up."

These concerns are categorized by Audi as issues with the heat output for steering wheel heating, ranging from being "too little" to "no function" or "partially out of order." It's important to note that Audi's workshop findings confirm there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to these specific complaints, meaning no fault codes will be stored in the vehicle's computer system for this issue.

Technical Background on Steering Wheel Heating Performance

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2065978/6 provides a detailed explanation of the factors that influence the perceived performance of the steering wheel heating system. The primary reason for concerns about the Audi steering wheel heating not sufficient is often related to the normal operating characteristics of the system and environmental conditions.

The surface temperature of the steering wheel can vary at different locations due to uneven heat distribution. This can lead to the impression that the heating is insufficient or not working correctly. For instance, some of the heat naturally dissipates into the spokes, resulting in lower surface temperatures in those areas compared to the rest of the steering wheel leather.

It can take over 30 minutes for the steering wheel to reach its target temperature of approximately 30°C ± 3°C (86°F ± 5F°). The actual time required for the steering wheel to warm up is highly dependent on the vehicle's interior temperature and the settings of the heater/air conditioner. In colder environments, the warm-up time will naturally be longer.

External factors can also affect perceived heating. For example, direct sunlight on the top part of the steering wheel (12 o'clock position) can cause it to heat up, creating a noticeable temperature difference compared to other areas. Additionally, if the driver holds the steering wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, their hands will warm these areas. Consequently, when the driver touches the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, these areas may feel cooler because they have not been warmed by the driver's hands.

The NTC temperature sensor, which is fitted in the foam underneath the steering wheel cover, also plays a role in how the complaint is perceived. When the desired surface temperature of 30°C (86°F) is reached, the measured value for this sensor is typically 34°C (93°F), as this is the temperature underneath the cover. These temperature readings are considered normal for the system's operation.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2065978/6 contains critical information that owners should be aware of:

• No Repair Procedure: This TSB is purely informational. It does not describe a repair procedure for the steering wheel heating system. The conditions described are considered normal operating characteristics.
• No Warranty Coverage: This TSB is explicitly stated as "not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This means that any diagnostic work or attempts to "fix" these perceived issues by a dealership would likely not be covered under your vehicle's warranty.
• No DTCs: As noted in the workshop findings, there are "no DTCs related to the topic." This confirms that the vehicle's diagnostic system will not register any fault codes for these conditions, as they are not considered malfunctions.

TSB Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin (Transaction No. 2065978/6) has undergone several revisions to update its content:

• Revision 6: The most recent revision, which included a revised header to add model years.
• Revision 5 (September 30, 2025): Also involved a revised header to add model years.
• Revision 4 (January 09, 2025): Included revisions to the "Condition" section with updated information and a revised "Technical Background" section with updated information.

Owner Action and Next Steps

If you are experiencing concerns that your Audi steering wheel heating not sufficient, it's important to understand the information provided in TSB 2065978/6. Given that the bulletin clarifies these conditions are often normal operating characteristics and not indicative of a fault, a repair is typically not required.

Before seeking service, consider the environmental factors and your driving habits as described in the technical background. Allow sufficient time for the steering wheel to warm up, especially in cold weather, and be aware that temperature differences across the wheel surface are normal.

If you have persistent concerns or believe your steering wheel heating is genuinely malfunctioning beyond the normal characteristics described, you may consult an authorized Audi service center. However, be aware that this specific TSB indicates that such conditions are not covered by warranty and do not generate fault codes.

NHTSA ID: 10255294