2024 Audi Q8 / SQ8 Headlight Control Module Software Update

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2024 Audi Q8 and SQ8 vehicles may experience an "erroneous fault message" appearing in the instrument cluster. This message indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's headlights, even if no physical problem exists. This specific 2024 Audi Q8 headlight fault message is a software-related display error.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that the erroneous fault message in the instrument cluster stems from a software issue within the light control module, also referred to as the headlight control unit. This internal software anomaly causes the vehicle's system to incorrectly display a warning regarding the headlights, despite the components functioning as intended. The issue is proactively addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin 94CB UPDATE.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Audi has issued several critical warnings and instructions for technicians performing this update, which also provide important information for owners:

• Do Not Replace Control Unit: Technicians are explicitly instructed to "DO NOT replace the control unit" during the repair process. The issue is software-based, and replacing hardware will not resolve the problem.
• SVM Code Entry During Repair: It is crucial "DO NOT enter SVM code 94CBA216 during the replacement test plan for diagnostic address 00D6." Incorrect entry can lead to improper data readout from headlight modules and potentially store new faults. The SVM code 94CBA216 is to be entered only at a specific step later in the process.
• Radiator Fan Safety: "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!" This highlights a safety concern during the update.
• Control Module Damage: "Control modules damaged by insufficient voltage will not be covered." This emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper battery voltage during the update to prevent costly damage.
• Wireless Connection Risk: "Requests for additional time or parts will be denied if the GFF log shows the update was performed using Bluetooth or WiFi." This indicates that using a wired USB connection for the diagnostic tester is mandatory to ensure a stable update and prevent potential damage or warranty claim issues.
• Prior Safety Recalls: "All Safety Recalls must be completed prior to completing this campaign." This ensures that any critical safety issues are addressed before this software update.
• No Loaner/Wash Claims: Dealers are advised, "Do not claim wash/loaner under this action."
• Dealer Inventory: The procedure "must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale." This ensures new vehicles are delivered with the updated software.

Repair Procedure Summary

The resolution for the 2024 Audi Q8 headlight fault message involves a software update to the light control module, performed by an authorized Audi dealer. The procedure, outlined in Audi TSB 94CB UPDATE, requires specific steps to ensure a successful update:

1. Preparation: The technician connects a battery charger to maintain stable voltage, switches off all vehicle accessories (consumers like AC, lights, heated seats), ensures the ODIS diagnostic software is up to date, and connects the diagnostic tester to the vehicle via a USB cable. The gear selector must be in Park (P).
2. Initial Scan and Test Plan: The vehicle is scanned using the Guided Fault Finding (GFF) system. Under the Guided Functions for diagnostic address 00D6, a "replacement test plan" is performed. During this specific step, the SVM code 94CBA216 is not entered.
3. Software Update: Following the on-screen prompts, the technician proceeds with the update. It is critical that the light control module itself is not replaced, as the issue is software-related.
4. SVM Code Input: After the replacement test plan is completed, the technician selects "SVM – Code Input" and then enters the specific SVM code 94CBA216. They then follow any remaining on-screen prompts to finalize the software update.
5. Documentation: Upon exiting GFF, the diagnostic log must be sent to GFF Paperless to document the successful completion of the update.

The entire SVM process must be completed in full to ensure the database receives confirmation of the update.

Required Tools

Performing this software update requires specialized equipment to ensure proper voltage and diagnostic communication:

• Battery Tester/Charger: Capable of supplying a minimum of 90 Amps continuously. An example provided is VAS 5908.
• Diagnostic Tester: Such as VAS6150X or VAS6160X, or an equivalent diagnostic system.

Warranty Information

This software update, identified by Service Number 94CB, is covered under warranty for eligible vehicles. Dealers are instructed to use Damage Code 0099 and Parts Vendor Code 002 for claim entry. For sold vehicles, the claim type is 710, and for unsold vehicles, it is 790. Labor operations include 0150 00 10 for connecting the battery charger and setup, and 0150 00 60 for the replacement test plan and SVM update. Dealers must attach an Elsa screen print showing the action as "open on the day of repair" to the repair order.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11002283