2021 Audi Engine Oil Leak UV Additive TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 17 21 12 2060750/2 to provide a standardized method for diagnosing engine oil leaks. This bulletin, which supersedes TSB Group 17 number 20-11 dated October 5, 2020, outlines the use of a special UV additive to help technicians pinpoint the exact source of an Audi engine oil leak.

This TSB applies to all 2021 Audi models equipped with a combustion engine, covering a wide range of vehicles from the A4 to the Q8.

Symptoms of an Engine Oil Leak

Owners of affected 2021 Audi vehicles may notice one or more of the following issues:

• A distinct smell in the engine compartment.
• Visible oil leaks in the front end of the car or within the engine compartment area.
• Oil marks appearing on the ground underneath the vehicle.
• A noticeable loss of engine oil, requiring frequent top-ups.

Technicians, during their inspection, typically confirm the presence of an oil leak in the engine area.

Important Warnings

This diagnostic method is specifically designed for engine oil leaks. Technicians are advised: Do not use for locating transmission leaks. The additive is formulated for engine oil and may not be suitable or effective for other fluid types.

Diagnosis and Technical Background

To accurately identify the source of an Audi engine oil leak, this TSB leverages a fluorescent yellow leak search additive. This pigment mixes with the engine oil and becomes highly visible when illuminated by a UV lamp. When the UV lamp shines on the leak point, the fluorescent pigment glows brightly, making even very small leaks detectable.

Depending on the leak's severity, the engine oil might be observed leaking at idle speed. For more subtle leaks, a test drive may be necessary to reproduce the condition. The additive is compatible with both gasoline and diesel engines, and an oil change is not required after its use. Additionally, engine cleaning before applying the additive is not necessary.

Repair Procedure Summary

The diagnostic process for an Audi engine oil leak involves two main steps for technicians:

1. Additive Application: One bottle of search additive G 052 940 A1 is added to the engine via the oil filler neck. This quantity is sufficient for up to 5 quarts of engine oil. For engines with larger oil capacities, double the amount of additive should be used. There is no risk of damaging the engine if extra additive is put in.
2. Leak Detection: After adding the pigment, the engine is run to circulate the additive. Technicians then use a UV lamp, specifically tool VAS 231005 (or an equivalent device), to scan the engine compartment and locate the glowing fluorescent yellow oil, indicating the precise leak point.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this diagnostic procedure, the following specific items are required:

• Part Number G 052940A1: Leak search additive (Shop Supply)
• Tool Number VAS231005 (WVA-074) or equivalent: UV lamp
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed, per the Repair Manual (See ETKA/ELSA).

Owner Action

If you are experiencing symptoms of an Audi engine oil leak, such as a burning oil smell, visible oil spots, or unexplained engine oil loss, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealership. They can perform the diagnostic procedure outlined in TSB 17 21 12 2060750/2 to accurately identify and repair the source of the leak. This Technical Service Bulletin is informational and not applicable to any Audi warranty.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 10186945