2025 Audi HomeLink Not Working Service Action 96RG

Audi has identified a concern with the HomeLink system in certain 2025 models, including the Q5, S4, SQ5, A4 allroad, and A4. This issue, addressed by Service Action 96RG, prevents the HomeLink from being programmed and causes the buttons in the rearview mirror to be unresponsive. To rectify this, a software update for the Vehicle Central Electrical System is required. This service action was originally published on December 10, 2024, with an update to affected vehicle counts on February 5, 2025. Owners of affected vehicles were notified by Audi starting in December 2024.

Symptoms

Owners may observe that their Audi HomeLink not working as expected. The primary symptom is that the "HomeLink cannot be programmed and there is no reaction when the HomeLink buttons in the rearview mirror are pressed." This means you will be unable to set up or use your garage door opener or other HomeLink-compatible devices through your vehicle's integrated system.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has specific guidelines regarding this service action:

• Campaign Expiration: This campaign is valid until December 10, 2029. Work must be performed on or before this date to be eligible for payment. If you choose to have this service performed after the expiration date, you will be responsible for the normal costs associated with the repair.
• New Vehicle Delivery: Dealers are required to ensure that every affected inventory vehicle has this campaign completed before delivery to consumers. This prevents new owners from experiencing the HomeLink issue immediately after purchase.

Required Tools

To perform the software update for the Audi HomeLink not working issue, technicians will utilize specific Audi diagnostic equipment:

• Battery Tester/Charger: VAS5908 (or an equivalent charger with a current rating of at least 90A) is necessary to maintain stable voltage during the update process.
• Diagnostic Tester: VAS6150X or VAS6160X (or an equivalent) is required to interface with the vehicle's electrical system and perform the software flash.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Audi HomeLink not working issue involves a software update to the Vehicle Central Electrical System. This process requires specialized diagnostic equipment and adherence to specific steps to ensure a successful update.

1. Vehicle Eligibility Check: Technicians must verify the vehicle's VIN in the Elsa system to confirm it qualifies for Service Action 96RG and that the campaign status is 'open'. If the status is 'closed', no further work is required. The applicable Criteria ID must be noted for correct work determination.
2. Diagnostic Tester Preparation: Before launching the VAS Diagnostic Tester and starting the update, several conditions must be met. The ODIS software must be completely up to date, and the battery charger (VAS5908) must be connected to the vehicle battery, maintaining at least 12.5 volts throughout the update. The diagnostic tester's screen saver and power-saving settings must be disabled, and it must be plugged in using its supplied power adapters, not running on battery power alone. The VAS Diagnostics Interface must connect to the tester via a USB cable, not Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, to prevent connection loss and potential control module damage.
3. Software Update Execution: All vehicle consumers (e.g., air conditioning, heater blower motor, lights, heated seats) must be switched off. The selector lever should be in 'P' (Park). The technician will use the 'FLASH' operating mode within ODIS, select "SVM – Code Input," and enter the SVM code 09A061. They will then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the software update. The flash process must be performed using "Audi Flashing," not Guided Fault Finding (GFF), as GFF can prolong the process.
4. Documentation: After the update, the diagnostic log must be sent to GFF Paperless. Technicians will also print the Campaign/Action screen from Elsa on the day of repair and keep a copy with the repair order.

Warranty Information

This service action is covered under warranty, provided the work is completed by the expiration date. For claim entry, dealers should use Service Number 96RG, Damage Code 0099, and Parts Vendor Code 002. The Claim Type is 7 10 for sold vehicles and 7 90 for unsold vehicles, with a causal indicator for labor. Labor operations include 0151 00 10 for software update setup and battery charger connection, and 0151 00 60 for software update (GFF Operations), with time units determined by ELSA or diagnostic protocol. Vehicle wash/loaner services are not claimable under this action.

Important Warnings for Technicians

Several critical warnings are provided to ensure the repair is performed correctly and safely:

• Control Module Damage: Failure to maintain battery voltage above 12.5 volts during the software update can damage the control module, and such damage will not be covered by warranty.
• SVM Process: The Software Version Management (SVM) process, detailed in Technical Bulletin 2011732 (US) or 2037026 (Canada), must be completed in its entirety. If the database does not receive the update confirmation response, the warranty claim may not be reimbursed.
• Update Failure: If the software update fails for any reason, ODIS feedback must be sent prior to further diagnosis. Failure to do so may result in non-payment for additional time or parts.
• 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!"
• Prioritize Repairs: All open campaigns/actions with a repair available must be performed in order of their start date, with the oldest performed first.
• Improper Repair: Damages resulting from improper repair or failure to follow these work instructions are the dealer's responsibility and are not eligible for reimbursement. Pre-existing conditions are also not covered.

NHTSA ID: 10255955