2021 Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8 Delivery Guidelines & Infotainment Update
This manufacturer communication outlines the comprehensive pre-delivery inspection and customer orientation process for 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8 models, detailing quality checks, feature explanations, and important infotainment system setup steps.

Also applies to
- Audi RS Q8
- 2021
- Audi SQ8
- 2021
Purpose of Audi Delivery Guidelines
This document, identified as "Effective 9-8-2020-US Version 1.2", serves as a comprehensive checklist for Audi dealerships. Its primary goal is to ensure that all 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles meet stringent quality standards and that customers receive a thorough orientation before taking delivery. The guidelines cover everything from physical vehicle inspection to detailed explanations of advanced features, including the crucial 2021 Audi Q8 infotainment update.
Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist
Before any 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, or RS Q8 is handed over to a customer, technicians must complete a detailed inspection. This includes verifying the exterior for any damage such as dings, dents, or surface scratches, and ensuring the interior is clean and free of grease marks.
The vehicle must be equipped exactly as specified, with all accessories properly installed and floor mats securely locked in place. A critical step involves setting tire pressures to "normal customer load" conditions and calibrating (storing) the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) prior to delivery.
Customer Orientation and Priority Topics
The guidelines emphasize a personalized customer orientation to enhance satisfaction. Dealers are instructed to complete myAudi registration, activate Audi connect trials, and verify the key user before the customer's arrival. This process ensures the customer has agreed to Audi connect Terms & Conditions and has set their 4-digit S-PIN in the myAudi smartphone app.
Key User Pairing in the vehicle (if equipped) and providing a completed Audi phone box registration form are also essential parts of this process. The document lists various "Priority Delivery Topics" for discussion, such as Voice Recognition, Navigation System, BLUETOOTH® mobile phone pairing, Audio System (with smartphone integration), Door Locks/Keyless Entry, Trunk/Hatch/Tailgate operation, Tire Pressure Monitoring System indicators, and Cruise Control System.
Infotainment System Updates and Setup
A significant portion of the delivery process focuses on the infotainment system, particularly regarding the 2021 Audi Q8 infotainment update. Dealers are instructed to thoroughly review MMI® controls, basic functionality, and customization options with the customer.
Specific instructions include tuning to SiriusXM®, demonstrating presets, and customizing them based on customer preferences. For vehicles equipped with SiriusXM with 360L, technicians must clearly show the differences between SAT and IP channels through the On Demand category. Other infotainment setup steps involve demonstrating scanning, tuning, and seek functions for HD Radio™, setting up favorites, and explaining voice control, BLUETOOTH® wireless technology, and streaming audio. Audi smartphone interface features like Apple® CarPlay and Google™ Android Auto integration are also covered.
The guidelines also detail explaining Audi connect® CARE features, Wi-Fi® hotspot capabilities, 4G LTE connectivity, and the Nav-Data-Update process via over-the-air updates and notifications. Showing how to manually set the clock, daylight savings, and time zone is also required.
Driver Controls and Vehicle Systems
The delivery process includes demonstrating various driver controls and vehicle systems. This encompasses the instrument cluster, driver information systems, steering wheel controls, exterior and interior lights, ambient LED interior lighting settings (if equipped), and automatic climate control.
For steering, the multifunction steering wheel, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column, steering wheel mounted shift paddles, and heated steering wheel (if equipped) are demonstrated. Seating adjustments, including heated and ventilated functions, split-fold rear seats, and massage functions, are also covered.
Vehicle systems like the idle start/stop efficiency system, electromechanical parking brake, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are explained. If equipped, adaptive air suspension and various driver assistance features such as Audi advanced key, parking system plus with 3D top view camera system, cruise control, adaptive cruise control with stop & go, Audi pre sense® basic & front, Audi pre sense® 360, Audi side assist, high-beam assistant, head-up display, and night vision assistant are reviewed.
Owner Documentation and Support
Customers receive their Owner's manual, MMI® manual, and other relevant documents. Dealers are to provide the Quick Questions & Answers Guide, explain "Text to Phone" features, and review the Tire Warranty Booklet. The Warranty & Maintenance Booklet must have the vehicle identification label from the trunk adhered to its inside cover, and the recommended maintenance schedule should be explained. Information on Lemon Law Rights and Audi Care is also provided.
Customers are also assisted in programming the 24-hour Roadside Assistance number (1-800-411-9988) into their phone. The dealer will also review the Audi Phone Box Customer Form and ensure the Serial Number is listed.
Important Dealer Instructions
This manufacturer communication explicitly states that dealers must "Repair all defects prior to customer delivery." This ensures that all 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles are in perfect condition when handed over to the customer. For ongoing technical support, the document provides the Audi Technologist phone number: "1-855-750-TECH (8324)", which customers can add to their contacts for assistance.
Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10180096
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the 2021 Audi Q8 delivery guidelines?
- The Audi Delivery Guidelines, identified as "Effective 9-8-2020-US Version 1.2", ensure that all 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles undergo a thorough pre-delivery inspection and that customers receive a comprehensive orientation on their new vehicle's features and systems, including the 2021 Audi Q8 infotainment update.
- What specific infotainment features are covered during delivery?
- During delivery, dealers provide instructions on MMI® controls, SiriusXM® setup (including 360L features), myAudi registration, Audi connect activation, Key User Pairing, BLUETOOTH® pairing, Apple® CarPlay, Google™ Android Auto integration, Wi-Fi® hotspot, and Nav-Data-Update processes. This ensures a complete understanding of the 2021 Audi Q8 infotainment update.
- Are there any specific pre-delivery inspection requirements for the 2021 Audi Q8?
- Yes, the guidelines require a detailed inspection for exterior and interior damage, verification of all accessories, proper floor mat installation, and precise calibration of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) after setting tire pressures to "normal customer load" conditions. All defects must be repaired before delivery.
- How can I get technical support for my Audi after delivery?
- The guidelines recommend that customers add the Audi Technologist phone number, 1-855-750-TECH (8324), to their contacts for technical assistance. This ensures direct support for any questions or issues that may arise after taking delivery of their 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, or RS Q8.
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