2021-2022 Audi "Please reduce oil level" Message TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 01 21 99 2054893/4 to address instances where the instrument cluster displays the message "Please reduce oil level". This condition primarily affects 2021-2022 Audi S4, A6, A7, Q8, S5, SQ5, and Q7 models equipped with the 3.0 TFSI engine. This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 01 number 20-76, dated August 12, 2020, incorporating updated information and procedures.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe the following message in their instrument cluster or MMI display:

• "Please reduce oil level"

This message indicates that the engine oil level has risen above the maximum recommended limit.

Technical Background

Modern Audi engines, particularly the 3.0 TFSI, are designed for high thermal efficiency. However, this can lead to a condition where the engine rarely reaches its optimal operating temperature, especially during frequent short trips or in cold weather climates. When the engine does not reach its fully stabilized operating temperature (between 176°F and 248°F or 80°C and 120°C), fuel evaporation from the engine oil may not be complete. This incomplete evaporation results in fuel dilution, where gasoline mixes with the engine oil, causing the oil level to increase and trigger the "Please reduce oil level" warning.

Important Notes for Owners

• Oil Level Verification: This bulletin only applies if the actual engine oil level is found to be above the maximum mark. If the oil level is not above maximum, this TSB does not apply to your vehicle.
• Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is outside its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. Repairs may not be covered by Audi.

Repair Procedure Summary

For vehicles experiencing the "Please reduce oil level" message, technicians will follow a specific diagnostic and repair process:

1. Initial Oil Level Verification: The technician will first verify the actual engine oil level using a special dipstick tool, T40178B, in conjunction with the Elsa Repair Manual procedures. If the oil level is not above the maximum, the TSB is not applicable.
2. First-Time Occurrence: If this is the first time the customer reports the issue, they will be informed that the condition is often due to repetitive short-distance driving. Owners are advised to occasionally warm up their vehicle fully, for example, by taking a 30-minute or longer highway drive, or ensuring the engine oil reaches at least 80°C. This practice helps prevent fuel dilution. A courtesy one-time engine oil and filter change will be performed according to the ELSA Repair Manual.
3. Repeat Occurrence: For customers who experience the issue again, the same advice regarding vehicle warm-up will be reiterated. An oil change may be performed under warranty or as a goodwill gesture, depending on the vehicle's warranty status.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform the necessary service, technicians will utilize specific tools and parts:

• Special Tools:
  • VAS 6160/VAS 6150: A VAS tester running the current version of ODIS (Windows 10).
  • T40178B: A specialized dipstick for accurate oil level measurement.
• Parts:
  • Oil Filter: Part number 06M198405F (Quantity: 1).
  • Engine Oil: As specified in ETKA/ELSA.
  • Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the Repair Manual (See ETKA/ELSA).

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this condition are processed under specific codes:

• Claim Type: 110 (up to 48 Months/50,000 Miles) or G10 for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles.
• Service Number: 1711
• Damage Code: 0010
• Labor Operations:
  • Perform oil change: 1701 9999 (70 Time Units)
  • Diagnostic Time GFF: No allowance (0 Time Units)
  • Road test prior to service: No allowance (0 Time Units)
  • Road test after service: No allowance (0 Time Units)
• Claim Comment: Claims must reference TSB #2054893/4.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty.

NHTSA ID: 10188548