2021 Audi Q5/SQ5 Start System Malfunction TSB

Owners of certain 2021 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may encounter a specific warning message related to the vehicle's start system. This condition is addressed by Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 96 20 58 2060913/1, issued on October 7, 2020. The TSB highlights an ongoing effort by Audi to gather more information about this particular issue, especially when the 2021 Audi Q5 start system malfunction B143C29 is present.

Symptoms

Vehicle owners may observe a "warning displayed in the instrument cluster relating to a start system malfunction." This visual alert indicates a problem within the vehicle's starting system, potentially affecting its operation.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When this condition occurs, workshops will typically find the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) stored in the comfort control module, identified as J393 (address word 0046):

• DTC B143C29: Access/start authorization button Range/Performance

This specific code points to an issue with the range or performance of the access/start authorization button, which is critical for the vehicle's ignition process.

Important Warnings

This TSB contains critical instructions for technicians that directly impact how this issue is handled. Audi explicitly states that various parts have been replaced under warranty for this condition previously, but without resolving the underlying issue. To prevent unnecessary part replacements and gather crucial data, Audi has issued the following directives:

• Do not replace parts before contacting TAC: Before replacing any parts, technicians must contact the Audi Technical Assistance Center (TAC).
• Complete questionnaire before repairs: If the condition matches the description, a specific questionnaire must be filled out before making any repairs to the vehicle.
• Warranty status: If the vehicle is outside of its New Vehicle Limited Warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Audi's technical background for this TSB indicates that despite previous warranty repairs involving part replacements, the root cause of the 2021 Audi Q5 start system malfunction B143C29 has not been definitively identified. The purpose of this bulletin is to collect more detailed information regarding the DTC B143C29 from affected vehicles. This data collection is intended to assist Audi in diagnosing potential issues and developing an effective solution.

Repair Procedure Summary

This TSB is primarily an information-gathering initiative rather than a direct repair procedure. Dealers are instructed to cooperate with Audi by providing detailed information when a vehicle presents with the 2021 Audi Q5 start system malfunction B143C29. The steps for the dealer involve:

1. If the vehicle's condition matches the description in the TSB, complete the attached questionnaire before performing any repairs.
2. If the vehicle is still within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, contact an Audi Technical Assistance Center (TAC) consultant.
3. Attach the completed questionnaire, the diagnostic log, and any requested photos to the TAC Web Ticket.

There have been no changes to vehicle production, as Audi has not yet identified a specific production-related issue.

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this condition fall under specific guidelines. The claim type covers vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, and also applies to CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles under the G10 claim type. The Service Number for this bulletin is 9677, and the Damage Code is 0040. Labor operations include "Start Stop switch remove and install" (9677 1900) and "Documentation Steps and Checklist" (9677 9999). Diagnostic time is allocated for GFF (0150 0000), with a maximum of 50 Technical Units (TU).

Road tests, both prior to and after the service procedure, are listed with "No allowance" (0 TU). All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty, as per TSB #2060913/1.

What Owners Should Do

If your 2021 Audi Q5 or SQ5 displays a "start system malfunction" warning, it is important to schedule an appointment with your authorized Audi dealer. Inform them about the specific warning message and mention the possibility of DTC B143C29. Your dealer will then follow the procedures outlined in TSB 96 20 58 2060913/1, which involves contacting the Audi Technical Assistance Center and providing detailed diagnostic information before any parts are replaced.

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Sources: NHTSA ID: 10181437