2021-2023 Audi Q7, Q8, RS Q8 Breather Line Part Update

What This Notice Is About

Audi has released Special Notice SM 41-2023, a parts circular primarily aimed at dealership parts managers. This notice addresses the management of inventory for a specific component: the Breather Line, identified by part number 0P2-103-211-E. The communication ensures that dealerships manage their stock efficiently and transition to an updated part for future service and repair needs.

This internal communication helps maintain the quality and consistency of parts used in vehicle servicing. While not a direct recall for owners, it's an important step to ensure that any necessary replacements for the Audi Q8 breather line and related models utilize the most current components available from the manufacturer.

Affected Parts and Replacements

The Special Notice SM 41-2023 specifically identifies the Breather Line, part number 0P2-103-211-E, as the component subject to inventory return. This part is being superseded by an updated version. Dealers are instructed to re-order required new materials using the new part number, which is 0P2-103-211-H (Breather Line).

This update ensures that all future installations of the breather line in affected vehicles will use the latest design. The change from 0P2-103-211-E to 0P2-103-211-H indicates a revision or improvement to the component.

Dealer Return Procedure Summary

Audi has outlined a specific claims procedure for dealers to return their inventory of the 0P2-103-211-E Breather Line. This process is designed to facilitate prompt credit and ensure that updated parts reach customers efficiently. Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return," selecting "Dlr Sup. Req. Return" under the item type and including the Special Notice Number SM 41-2023 in their comments.

Further steps include reviewing "Parts On Command" for the Delivery List document, entering the delivery document number on a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label, and adhering this label to the returned packages. Finally, a copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned parts.

Important Warnings

Dealers must adhere to a strict deadline for returning the specified parts. The notice explicitly states: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." The deadline for returning inventory of the 0P2-103-211-E Breather Line to the facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) is September 26, 2023.

This warning is crucial for dealerships to ensure they receive proper credit for their returned inventory. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the forfeiture of any potential return or buyback options for the old part number.

What This Means for Owners

For owners of 2021-2023 Audi Q7, Q8, and RS Q8 models, this Special Notice SM 41-2023 is an internal dealer communication and not a direct recall. You will not receive a notification letter regarding this parts circular. However, it indirectly benefits you by ensuring that if your vehicle ever requires a replacement for the Audi Q8 breather line, the dealership will install the most current and potentially improved part, 0P2-103-211-H.

This practice helps maintain the quality and performance of your vehicle by ensuring that service and repair work is performed with the latest manufacturer-approved components. There is no immediate action required from vehicle owners based on this notice.

NHTSA ID: 10242979