2022-2025 Audi Black Trim Discoloration TSB 2078651/2
Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2078651/2 to address a common issue of discoloration on the black exterior trim strips of various 2022-2025 models. Owners may notice red, purple, grey, or metallic hues appearing on these trim components.

Also applies to
- Audi A5
- 2021–2024
- Audi A6
- 2021–2025
- Audi A6 allroad
- 2021–2025
- Audi A7
- 2021–2025
- Audi A7 e
- 2021–2022
- Audi Q3
- 2021–2025
- Audi Q8
- 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025
- Audi RS 5
- 2021–2024
- Audi RS 6 Avant
- 2021–2025
- Audi RS 7
- 2021–2025
- Audi RS Q8
- 2021–2025
- Audi S5
- 2021–2024
- Audi S6
- 2021–2025
- Audi S7
- 2021–2025
- Audi SQ8
- 2021–2025
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Owners of certain 2022-2025 Audi models may observe an unsightly issue where the black exterior trim strips develop a noticeable discoloration. This problem, officially addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2078651/2, manifests as red, purple, grey, or metallic tints on components designed to be uniformly black.
This Audi black trim discoloration specifically affects trim components, protective molding, decoration, and dirt deflectors that are part of the black styling package. The TSB provides guidance for technicians on how to identify and address this aesthetic concern.
Symptoms of Audi Black Trim Discoloration
The primary symptom reported by customers is a visible change in the color of the black exterior trim strips. Owners describe seeing:
- "red/purple (sometimes also grey or metallic) discoloration on the black exterior trim strips (trim strips in black styling package)"
This discoloration impacts the overall appearance and surface quality of the vehicle's exterior, particularly on models equipped with the black styling package.
Technical Background of the Issue
Audi has identified the root cause of the Audi black trim discoloration as a specification issue with the paint used on these components. The original paint formulation lacked optimal UV resistance, leading to its degradation and subsequent color shift when exposed to sunlight over time.
To prevent this issue in future vehicles, Audi implemented a production solution. A new wet painting process was introduced in series production starting October 24, 2024. This updated process aims to ensure that black exterior trim strips manufactured from this date forward will have improved UV resistance and will not exhibit the same discoloration problems.
Repair Procedure Summary
For vehicles experiencing the Audi black trim discoloration, the recommended service involves replacing the affected components. Technicians are instructed to compare the customer's complaint with example photos (Figures 1-3 in the original TSB document) to confirm the issue.
If the discoloration matches the examples, the affected exterior trim strips can be replaced. The specific components that may require replacement include rear side window trim, roof trim strips, and front or rear window slot seals. The replacement process should be carried out in accordance with Audi's warranty guidelines.
Warranty Information
This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2078651/2 outlines the warranty procedures for addressing the black trim discoloration. Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.
- Claim Type: If the vehicle is outside of any warranty, this TSB is for informational purposes only.
- Damage Code: 0030
- Service Numbers and Labor Operations:
- 6475 (Rear side window): Renew side window (6475 55xx), Replace 2 side windows (6475 56xx)
- 6633 (Roof trim strip): Removed and installed roof trim strip (4K, 4MN, F5) (6633 19xx), Removed and installed 2 roof trim strips (4K, 4MN, F5) (6633 20xx)
- 6448 (Front window slot seal): Remove and install front window slot seal (6448 19xx)
- 6468 (Rear window slot seal): Remove and install rear window slot seal (6468 19xx)
All labor operations are associated with specific SRT (Standard Repair Time) codes, which technicians will reference for billing. The claim comment should explicitly state "As per TSB 2078651/2."
Important Warnings for Warranty Claims
When submitting a warranty claim for this issue, specific photo documentation is required to ensure proper processing and reference to the vehicle. These photos must:
- Include the VIN and date.
- Not be edited.
- Be in focus and taken with sufficient light, though high resolution is not necessary.
- Clearly show the complaint and, if appropriate, mark the location of the problem.
- Not show any people, faces, license plates, or customer data.
It is important to note that sending damaged parts for analysis is not necessary for this particular issue.
Revision History
This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone revisions:
- Revision 2: Revised header (Removed PR criteria).
- Revision 1: Initial publication on July 21, 2025.
NHTSA ID: 11023789
Gallery
3 images
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Audi TSB 2078651/2 about?
- Audi TSB 2078651/2 addresses the issue of discoloration on the black exterior trim strips of various 2022-2025 Audi models. Owners may notice red, purple, grey, or metallic hues on these trim components.
- What causes the black trim discoloration on my Audi?
- The discoloration is caused by a paint specification issue where the original paint used on the black exterior trim strips had suboptimal UV resistance, leading to degradation and color change over time.
- How can the Audi black trim discoloration be fixed?
- The recommended fix involves replacing the affected exterior trim components. If the discoloration matches the examples provided in the TSB, your Audi dealer can replace the parts under warranty, provided your vehicle is still within the warranty period.
- Which Audi models are affected by TSB 2078651/2?
- This TSB applies to a range of 2022-2025 Audi models, including the A5, S5, RS 5, A6, S6, RS 6 Avant, A6 allroad, A7, S7, RS 7, Q3, Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8, specifically those with black exterior trim strips.
- What information does my dealer need for a warranty claim related to this TSB?
- For a warranty claim, your dealer will need clear photos of the discoloration that include your vehicle's VIN and the date. The photos must be in focus, unedited, and clearly show the problem without revealing personal information.
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