2021 Audi Q5 Instrument Cluster Image Software Update

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2021 Audi Q5 vehicles may notice an incorrect vehicle image displayed on the driver information system tab of the instrument cluster. Specifically, the image shown is an "A4 Avant instead of a Q5". This visual discrepancy does not affect vehicle operation but is a cosmetic error in the digital display. This issue, related to the 2021 Audi Q5 instrument cluster image, is addressed by Audi's proactive software update.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To determine if a vehicle requires this update, technicians must check the software version of the installed instrument cluster, identified as -J285- (diagnostic address 0017). This can be done via OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) by navigating to '0017 – Instrument Cluster > Identification'.

If the instrument cluster has part number 8W5.920.790.L and a software version of 0157 or 0159, or part number 8W5.920.790.K with software version 0159, the update is necessary. However, if the software in the vehicle is already at version 0161 or greater, the update is not needed, and no further action is required for the 2021 Audi Q5 instrument cluster image issue.

Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners

Audi has issued several critical warnings regarding the software update process to ensure proper execution and prevent damage. These warnings are crucial for both technicians performing the 90Q1 UPDATE and owners to understand:

• Prohibited Diagnostic Methods: Technicians are explicitly instructed: "DO NOT USE Guided Fault Finding (GFF) to perform this flash. Using GFF will cause the flash to take longer. Requests for additional time will not be considered." Performing the update using "Diagnosis" (Guided Fault Finding) mode could also result in non-payment of the warranty claim.
• Wireless Connection Prohibition: "Using Bluetooth or WiFi for this action is PROHIBITED! Damage caused to electronic components (e.g. ECM, TCM, etc.) during the SVM flash process is not covered." Performing a software update via Bluetooth or WiFi significantly increases the risk of losing connection, which can damage the control module. Claims for additional time or parts will be denied if the GFF log indicates a wireless connection was used.
• Radiator Fan Safety: "Radiator Fan(s) may cycle ON high speed during the Update Process! There is a serious risk that personal injury may result if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from Radiator Fan(s) during Update Process!"
• Battery Voltage: Battery voltage must remain above 12.5 volts throughout the software update. Failure to maintain adequate voltage can cause the update to fail and potentially damage the control module. "Control modules damaged by insufficient voltage will not be covered." Additionally, the diagnostic tester must be plugged in using supplied power adapters; "Under no circumstances should the tester be used on battery power alone during the software update."
• Dealer Inventory: The procedure must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale.
• Warranty Coverage: The procedure is valid only for vehicles that show the 90Q1 code in the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen on the day of repair and must be within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
• Screen Saver and Power Saving: The screen saver and power saving settings on the diagnostic tester must be turned off. "Failure to do so may result in the tester entering power save mode during the software update, which could result in damage to the control module."
• Hazard Warning Lights: The vehicle's hazard warning lights must be switched on during the update. "The procedure may cancel itself if the hazard warning lights are not switched on. The hazard warning lights prevent the system from switching to bus sleep mode during the update."
• Multiple Campaigns: If multiple software update campaigns or actions are open, they must be performed in order of their Start date, with the oldest being performed first. "All Safety Recalls must be completed prior to completing this campaign."

Required Tools and Parts

Performing the 90Q1 UPDATE requires specific tools and a USB flash drive with the correct software:

• Battery Tester/Charger: A GRX3000VAS- (or equivalent) battery tester/charger is required to maintain stable voltage during the update.
• Diagnostic Tester: A VAS6150X/VAS6160X (or equivalent) diagnostic tester is necessary to interface with the vehicle.
• USB Flash Drive: A USB flash drive, part number 8W6.906.961.J, must be created using the SD Creator program. Technicians should refer to the latest version of TSB 2047812 for additional information on using the SD Creator program.

Repair Procedure Summary

This software update, identified as 90Q1 UPDATE, involves a multi-step process performed by an authorized Audi technician. The general workflow to correct the 2021 Audi Q5 instrument cluster image issue is as follows:

1. Vehicle Eligibility Verification: The technician first verifies the vehicle's eligibility for the 90Q1 UPDATE by checking the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen. The status for the 90Q1 code must be "open". An Elsa printout showing the "open" status must be attached to the repair order. Elsa is the only valid source for verification.
2. Pre-Update Preparation: The vehicle's hood and battery cover must be opened. The GRX3000VAS Tester/Charger (or equivalent) is connected in power supply mode to the vehicle battery or underhood charging posts. When connecting directly to the battery, the positive cable goes to the positive terminal, and the negative cable connects to the grounding lug on the chassis. Technicians are warned: "DO NOT connect the ground cable directly to negative terminal of the battery." The vehicle's hazard warning lights must be switched on.
3. Diagnostic Tester Setup: The VAS6150X/VAS6160X Diagnostic Tester is connected to the vehicle, and the ODIS program is started. Communication between the scan tool and diagnostic head must be confirmed via USB cable. If a Bluetooth or WiFi symbol is displayed, the diagnostic head must be disconnected and reconnected using the USB cable.
4. Software Update Initiation: From the ODIS home screen, the technician highlights "Flash" and follows the on-screen prompts. It is critical to use the "Flash" operating mode, not "Diagnosis" (Guided Fault Finding).
5. SVM Code Input: The process involves selecting "Starting Flashing" and then "No RO". The technician then highlights "SVM – Code Input" and selects "Perform test". The corrective action code FPKWW0161 is entered, and "Accept" is selected, following on-screen prompts.
6. Update Execution: The USB flash drive is inserted. The update is performed via the Red Engineering Menu (REM), accessed by touching the screen with two fingers in the top right corner. The volume control is used to navigate the REM (left/right for scrolling, push to select). "Update" is selected, with the source specified as "USB". All control units to be updated are shown; the technician scrolls down and starts the update via the REM.
7. Post-Update Procedures: After the flash completes, "Send" is selected to transmit the diagnostic protocol online. The technician then clicks "Flash" to exit the flash session. To clear any event memory entries, the vehicle is put into bus sleep mode by disconnecting the diagnostic tester, removing the key, and locking the vehicle with the remote for 5 minutes. Finally, the clock is reset to local time if necessary.

Warranty Information

This 90Q1 UPDATE is covered under warranty, provided the vehicle meets specific criteria. Dealers are instructed to enter claims as soon as possible after the update is completed, attaching an Elsa screen print showing the action as "open" on the day of repair.

• Service Number: 90Q1
• Damage Code: 0099
• Parts Vendor Code: 002
• Claim Type: Sold vehicle: 7 10; Unsold vehicle: 7 90
• Causal Indicator: Mark labor as causal
• Vehicle Wash/Loaner: "Do not claim wash/loaner under this action."

Labor Operations:

Criteria I.D.	Labor Op	Time Units	Description
FY	0183 00 99	10	Check instrument cluster software version
FY	2706 89 50	10	Connect battery charger
	9025 25 99	40	Update instrument cluster software
	0150 00 00	Time stated on diagnostic protocol	Perform GFF documentation SVM

For customers who refuse the campaign work or whose vehicle is outside the specified warranty parameters, U.S. dealers must submit requests through Audi Warranty Online under the Campaigns/Update option. Canadian dealers must upload the repair order to Audi WIN/Operations/Campaign Closure.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021 Audi Q5 and suspect your instrument cluster displays the incorrect vehicle image, or if you receive notification from Audi, you should contact an authorized Audi dealer. The dealer will verify if your vehicle requires the 90Q1 UPDATE and perform the necessary software update free of charge under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. It is important to note that Audi will inform customers in writing by recording on the Repair Order any and all work conducted on the vehicle, including any updates completed under this campaign.

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Source: NHTSA ID 10182071