2021 Audi Q8 Steering Column Part Return Notice

What This Notice Is About

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 55-2020, a parts circular primarily aimed at parts managers and inventory personnel. This notice outlines a process for dealers to return specific steering column components to ensure that only the most current and correct parts are in circulation for customer vehicles, specifically impacting the 2021 Audi Q8 and Q7 models. The goal is to improve the quality of parts reaching customers and to facilitate proper inventory management and credit for dealerships.

Affected Part Numbers and Production Dates

This special notice pertains to a specific steering column part identified by Audi part number 4M1-419-502-Q. The document also provides additional identifiers found on the part label, including:

• BOSCH Nr.: 7045.955.684
• Audi Nr.: 4M1.419.502 P 01S
• Typpruef Nr.: 4M0 065
• Serien Nr.: 038 NAC06928864

The critical factor for return eligibility is the production date of the part. Dealers are instructed to return all parts with a production date prior to CW 33/2020. The production date is typically indicated on the part label, often in a format like "35/20" (representing calendar week 35 of 2020), as shown in the example provided in the notice. Parts manufactured before calendar week 33 of 2020 are subject to this return program for the 2021 Audi Q8 steering column return.

Return Procedure for Dealers

To ensure proper credit and compliance with Special Notice SM 55-2020, Audi outlines a specific claims procedure for dealers returning these steering column parts. Dealers must:

1. File a separate "Claim with Return" by selecting "Dlr Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. Dealer comments should reference the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number.
2. Review "Parts On Command" the following day for the Delivery List document. Any issues or delays should be communicated to the facing PDC.
3. Enter the 40000XXXXX delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Adhere the YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include one copy of the Delivery Document with the returned part(s).

This structured process ensures accurate tracking and processing of the returned inventory.

Important Deadlines and Conditions

Dealers must return their inventory of the affected steering column parts no later than October 16, 2020. It is crucial to adhere to this deadline, as items returned after this specified date WILL NOT be accepted for any type of return or buyback. If new materials are required, dealers are advised to re-order them using the same part number, ensuring they receive parts from the current production run that are not subject to this return notice. This ensures the 2021 Audi Q8 steering column return process is completed efficiently.

NHTSA ID: 10180347