2021-2025 Audi Q8 Headlight Parts Return Notice SM 52-2024

What is the Audi Special Notice SM 52-2024?

Audi has released Special Notice SM 52-2024, a parts circular dated September 3, 2024, aimed at Parts Managers and inventory control. This notice provides instructions for the Audi Q8 headlight parts return from dealer inventory. The primary goal is to manage inventory levels effectively and ensure that only the correct and updated parts reach customers for 2021-2025 Audi Q8 and RS Q8 models.

This special notice is not a recall for a safety defect but rather an internal communication to streamline parts distribution and improve the quality of parts reaching customers. It focuses on identifying and returning older stock of headlights to the Parts Distribution Center (PDC). The notice highlights the importance of this process for maintaining high service quality and proper inventory management.

Affected Headlight Parts and Identification

This Special Notice SM 52-2024 specifically targets two headlight part numbers: 4M8-941-113 (Headlight) and 4M8-941-781. Dealers are instructed to inspect their current inventory for these items. The key criteria for determining which parts are considered 'good' and which must be returned are the production date and the presence of a 'Green Mark'.

Headlights with a production date of 31.05.2024 (May 31, 2024) or later, or those that feature a visible 'Green Mark', are considered acceptable. Conversely, any parts with a production date prior to May 31, 2024, and without a 'Green Mark', must be returned. This ensures that only the latest specification headlights are in circulation.

Identifying Compliant Headlights

To determine if a headlight unit is compliant, technicians and parts managers should locate the production date and check for the 'Green Mark'. The production date is typically printed on the headlight unit itself, often in a DD.MM.YY format, such as 21.05.24. The 'Green Mark' is a distinct visual indicator, usually a green dot or sticker, also located directly on the headlight assembly. An example image provided in the notice shows a production date of 21.05.24 and highlights the location of the 'Green Mark' on the unit.

Important Return Deadlines and Policies

To promptly receive credit and improve inventory levels, all affected material numbers must be returned to the facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) no later than September 24, 2024. This deadline is critical, as the notice explicitly states: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback."

Dealer Return Procedure Summary

Dealers must follow a specific claims procedure for the Audi Q8 headlight parts return:

1. File a Claim: Submit a separate "Claim with Return" and select "Dir Sup. Req. Return" as the item type. Ensure that dealer comments include the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number (SM 52-2024).
2. Review Delivery List: The following day, review "Parts On Command" for the Delivery List document. Contact the facing PDC for any issues or delays.
3. Document Number Entry: Enter the 40000XXXXX delivery document number onto a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Label Adherence: Affix the YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label securely to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include Documentation: Place one copy of the Delivery Document inside the package with the returned part(s).

Re-ordering New Parts

After returning the non-compliant headlights, dealers are instructed to re-order required new materials. It is important to note that these new materials should be ordered using the same part number (4M8-941-113 or 4M8-941-781), as the issue pertains to specific production batches and not a change in the part number itself.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11009295