2024 Audi Q8/SQ8 Instrument Cluster Fault TSB 94CB

Symptoms

Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 94CB UPDATE, also known as the Software Update for Light Control Module – (NVLW), addresses a proactive measure to prevent certain conditions in affected vehicles. Owners may notice an "erroneous fault message" appearing in the instrument cluster. This message indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's headlight system or its control unit.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

This TSB specifically targets a software issue within the control unit responsible for the headlights. The erroneous fault message is a direct result of this software anomaly. The update is a preventative measure, meaning it is intended to resolve the underlying software problem before the fault message manifests or causes further complications. No specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are listed in the bulletin as being associated with this particular condition, as the update aims to prevent the condition from occurring.

Repair Procedure Summary

Authorized Audi technicians will perform a software update on the light control module to resolve the potential for an erroneous fault message in the instrument cluster. The process begins with verifying the vehicle's eligibility using the Elsa system, ensuring the specific 94CB code is marked as "open" on the day of the repair. Technicians must also ensure their ODIS software is fully up to date and that the VAS Diagnostic Tester is connected via a USB cable, not Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, to prevent connection loss and potential control module damage.

During the update, a battery charger capable of supplying a minimum of 90 Amps continuously must be connected to maintain battery voltage above 12.5 volts. This is crucial to prevent update failures and potential damage to the control module. All screen saver and power saving settings on the diagnostic tester must be disabled. The update must be performed as a single, standalone ODIS Diagnostic Session, and any ODIS "Hot-Fix" patches must be removed beforehand. The technician will switch on the headlights, scan the vehicle using Guided Functions (GFF), and perform a replacement test plan under DA 00D6. The SVM code 94CBA216 is then entered to initiate the software update. Following the update, the diagnostic log must be sent to GFF Paperless.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the software update for the light control module, technicians require specific equipment:

• Battery Tester/Charger: Capable of providing a minimum of 90 Amp continuous supply to ensure stable voltage during the update process.
• Diagnostic Tester: A VAS6150X/VAS6160X unit or an equivalent diagnostic tester is necessary for accessing and updating the vehicle's software.

Important Warnings

Audi has issued several critical warnings and instructions for technicians and owners regarding this update:

• "Radiator Fan(s) may cycle ON high speed during the Update Process! There is a serious risk that personal injury may result if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from Radiator Fan(s) during Update Process!"
• "Battery voltage must remain above 12.5 volts for the duration of the software update. Failure to do so may cause the update to fail, which could result in damage to the control module. Control modules damaged by insufficient voltage will not be covered."
• "The VAS Diagnostics Interface MUST ONLY be connected to the tester with a USB cable." Using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for the update significantly increases the risk of connection loss and potential damage to the control module, and requests for additional time or parts due to such failures will be denied.
• "All Safety Recalls must be completed prior to completing this campaign."
• Technicians are instructed to "DO NOT replace the control unit" as the issue is software-based.
• Dealerships are advised to "Do not claim wash/loaner under this action."
• "As a best practice, customer presets should be documented prior to performing any update in the event these settings are lost during the update."
• If the 94CB UPDATE appears to have been performed but the code still shows as open in Elsa, the dealer must contact Warranty before proceeding further.

Owner Action

If you own a 2024 Audi Q8 or SQ8 and are concerned about the potential for an erroneous fault message in the instrument cluster, or if you have already experienced this issue, you should contact an authorized Audi dealer. The software update described in Technical Service Bulletin 94CB is a proactive measure to prevent this condition. The procedure is valid for vehicles within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty (NVLW) period. The update will be performed free of charge under warranty. Audi will notify customers in writing by recording all completed work, including this update, on the repair order. This ensures that you are aware of all services performed on your vehicle.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10254026