2013-2025 Audi Cracked Roof Paintwork and Corrosion TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 51 24 32 2068999/3 to address concerns regarding cracked paintwork and corrosion at the joint between the roof and roof side member on various 2013-2025 Audi models. This bulletin, which supersedes TSB Group 51 number 24-31 dated September 16, 2024, provides important information for technicians and owners about this specific condition.

The TSB clarifies the nature of the issue, its likely causes, and how it can be identified. It's crucial for owners to understand this information, especially regarding warranty coverage for this particular problem.

Symptoms of Cracked Roof Paintwork and Corrosion

Owners may notice "Cracked paintwork with corrosion at joint connecting roof to roof side member." This is the primary symptom described in the TSB. The corrosion formation is typically confirmed during workshop inspections.

Understanding the Cause

The TSB explains that the "cracked paintwork with corrosion" issue arises from force applied to the roof skin panel. This force can cause a crack to form in the paintwork where the roof meets the roof side member.

Such forces can result from impacts like hail, large amounts of snow falling off a roof, or other external factors. The paint crack may not be immediately obvious, even after dent removal procedures, indicating that the damage might have occurred some time before the corrosion becomes visible.

Identifying the Issue

Technicians are advised to look for specific signs of this condition. The TSB includes figures illustrating paint thickness measurements and examples of corrosion formation due to paint cracking. Close-up views of paint cracking where the roof joins the roof side member are also provided.

Evaluation of paintwork cracks can be done using a magnifying glass. Additionally, the bulletin shows examples of surface deformations that can be caused by significant amounts of snow falling off a roof, and deformations identified using a dent mirror.

Important Warranty Information

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2068999/3 includes a critical note regarding warranty coverage. The bulletin explicitly states: "This issue does not constitute a fault which is covered by warranty/goodwill. This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty."

This means that repairs for the "Audi cracked roof paintwork" and associated corrosion described in this TSB are generally not covered under Audi's standard warranty. Owners should be aware of this policy when seeking diagnosis or repair for this condition.

Next Steps for Owners

If you observe cracked paintwork or corrosion on your Audi's roof, particularly at the joint with the roof side member, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected by an authorized Audi service center. While the TSB 51 24 32 2068999/3 indicates that this condition is not typically covered by warranty, a professional diagnosis can confirm the nature and extent of the damage.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11012492