2023-2024 Audi Wireless Smartphone Interface Inoperable

Symptoms of Wireless Smartphone Interface Issues

Owners of affected 2023-2024 Audi vehicles may experience problems with their wireless smartphone connectivity. The primary symptom is that the "Audi Smartphone Interface [ASI] (Apple CarPlay [ACP] / AndroidAuto [AA]) cannot be paired to the phone wirelessly."

When attempting to connect, drivers might notice that "The phone tiles under the ASI menu are grayed out" on the infotainment display, indicating that the system is not recognizing or allowing a wireless connection. Furthermore, the vehicle's essential 5GHz WiFi network, which is required for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, is not broadcast.

It is important to note that if a wired connection is used for the Audi Smartphone Interface, the system typically functions as expected. This distinction helps confirm that the issue is specific to the wireless communication capability.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued a critical warning regarding this issue: "Parts replacement does not solve this issue. Claims for replaced parts will be subject to review." This means that replacing components such as the MMI unit or the ConBox will not resolve the underlying problem. Owners should be aware that attempting such repairs could lead to unnecessary costs and potential warranty claim denials.

Diagnosis of the Wireless Connection Problem

The root cause of the inoperable wireless Audi Smartphone Interface is a configuration issue within the vehicle's systems. This fault specifically prevents the 5GHz WiFi network from being available, which is a prerequisite for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to function correctly. Despite the clear symptoms, diagnostic scans typically reveal "No Relevant DTCs are stored" in the vehicle's control modules.

Technicians will confirm the issue by observing the inability to pair devices wirelessly and the absence of the 5GHz WiFi network broadcast. The functionality of wired connections serves as a key diagnostic indicator, confirming the problem lies solely with the wireless interface.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 91 24 88 2073333/2 outlines a straightforward software-based repair to address the wireless connectivity problem. The procedure involves two main steps performed by a qualified Audi technician.

First, the technician must execute the "Check control module configuration" test plan. This specific test plan is found under the Guided Functions menu and targets the Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit (ConBox) -J949-, which is identified by address word 0075 in the diagnostic system. This step ensures the correct configuration settings are applied.

Second, after the configuration update is completed, the vehicle must undergo a "bus sleep cycle." This allows the vehicle's electronic systems to properly reset and integrate the new software settings. Once the bus sleep cycle is complete, the wireless Audi Smartphone Interface should re-establish correct functionality, allowing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to pair and operate as intended.

Warranty Information

This repair, outlined in Technical Service Bulletin 91 24 88 2073333/2, is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, and owner verification is required to process the warranty claim.

If a vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance. The specific service number associated with this procedure is 9145, with a damage code of AC39 and a diagnostic time of GFF. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

NHTSA ID: 10252100