2020-2025 Audi Q5/SQ5 Aluminum Trim Pitting TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 66 24 08 2074102/1 to address customer concerns regarding the appearance of the exterior aluminum optic trim on certain 2020-2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. This bulletin clarifies the nature of the damage and its root causes, which often manifest as pitting or spotting on the trim components.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi Q5 and SQ5 models may observe visible damage to the aluminum optic trim located on the front fascia. This includes the trim surrounding the radiator grille, the underrun bar, and the side cooling air grilles. The damage typically appears as pitting, spotting, or small marks on the surface of these components.

Visual examples provided in the TSB show various degrees of this damage. Figure 1 illustrates the affected areas on the front fascia, while Figures 2, 3, 4, and 5 provide close-up views of the pitting and spotting on the radiator grille trim and discoloration on the side cooling air grille trim. These images confirm the presence of surface imperfections on the aluminum optic trim.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings consistently confirm various degrees of damage to the surfaces of the aluminum optic trim. The technical background provided by Audi indicates that the primary cause of this issue is external environmental factors. These include environmental fallout, exposure to road salt, and residues left by aggressive cleaning agents. Laboratory analysis has confirmed that these external influences lead to the observed pitting and discoloration.

This TSB, identified as 2074102, clarifies that the damage to the aluminum optic trim is irreversible. Once the trim is affected by these environmental factors, it cannot be repaired, necessitating replacement if the owner wishes to restore its original appearance. The Audi Q5 aluminum trim pitting is a cosmetic issue stemming from external exposure.

Important Warnings

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 66 24 08 2074102/1 contains critical information regarding warranty coverage for this specific issue. The document explicitly states:

• "The damage to the trim is irreversible and cannot be repaired."
• "trim replacement under warranty is prohibited."
• "This damage is due to outside influence and is not covered by any Audi Warranty."

This means that while the affected trim pieces will need to be replaced to resolve the pitting or spotting, the cost of this replacement will not be covered under any Audi warranty, as the damage is attributed to external causes rather than a manufacturing defect.

Repair Procedure Summary

Since the damage to the aluminum optic trim is irreversible, the only way to address the pitting and spotting is to replace the affected trim components. Owners experiencing Audi Q5 aluminum trim pitting should be aware that this is considered a customer-pay repair due to the warranty exclusion. Technicians will need to consult the latest parts information and repair manuals for the correct part numbers and detailed replacement procedures. This ensures proper installation of new trim pieces, although the underlying cause (environmental exposure) remains a factor for future potential damage.

Additional Information

All part and service references mentioned in this TSB 2074102 are subject to change. Technicians are advised to always check with their Parts Department and ETKA for the most current information and part bulletins. Additionally, the Repair Manual should be consulted for specific fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that require replacement during the trim repair.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11002240