2021-2026 Audi Q5, A3, e-tron GT Key Not Recognized TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 57 24 59 2070128/2, superseding previous bulletin 23-05, to address a common problem where vehicles fail to start using the key reader or experience issues with key recognition during immobilizer servicing. This TSB, also referenced internally as 2070128, provides a straightforward solution for owners and technicians.

This issue primarily affects various 2021-2026 Audi models, including the Q5, SQ5, Q5 e quattro, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, A3, S3, RS 3, e-tron GT, and RS e-tron GT lines. If you own an Audi S e-tron GT key not recognized when attempting to start the vehicle, this bulletin may apply to you.

Symptoms

Owners may notice that their vehicle does not start when the key is placed on the reader coil. This can be particularly frustrating, especially when the key itself is functional. Additionally, technicians might encounter difficulties adapting the vehicle key or immobilizer system during service procedures, leading to delays and complications.

A key indicator of this problem is the appearance of the message "FAZ1552 – Key status invalid" during the key adaptation process. This specific error message points directly to an issue with the key's communication with the immobilizer system via the reader coil.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the Audi S e-tron GT key not recognized issue, as detailed in the TSB, is surprisingly simple: an incorrectly positioned lining mat within the cup holder. This mat, which features a symbol indicating the key reader coil's location, can be inserted the wrong way around, often after cleaning. When the pictogram on the mat is misaligned, it obstructs the key's ability to properly communicate with the reader coil, preventing the vehicle from starting or the immobilizer from recognizing the key.

Repair Procedure Summary

The solution to this key recognition problem is to correctly reposition the lining mat in the cup holder. This ensures the key reader coil is uncovered and can properly interact with the vehicle key.

For Audi Q5 models, the pictogram for the reader coil must be located in the front left cup holder, positioned forward as seen from the direction of travel (refer to Figure 2 in the original TSB for visual guidance).

In the Audi e-tron GT, the reader coil pictogram should be in the forward front cup holder on the right side, also oriented in the direction of travel (as shown in Figure 3 of the TSB).

For Audi A3 models, the pictogram for the reader coil must be in the forward front cup holder, positioned in the direction of travel (illustrated in Figure 4 of the TSB). Correcting the mat's orientation allows the key to be recognized, resolving the starting and immobilizer adaptation issues.

Important Warnings

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 57 24 59 2070128/2 is classified as informational only. This means that the procedures described within this TSB are not applicable for any Audi Warranty claims. Owners should be aware that any costs associated with diagnosing or correcting this issue would typically not be covered under warranty, as it is a simple repositioning task rather than a component defect.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing your Audi S e-tron GT key not recognized or similar starting issues, first check the orientation of the lining mat in your cup holder. Ensure the pictogram indicating the key reader coil is correctly positioned and unobstructed. If the problem persists after verifying the mat's placement, it is advisable to contact your authorized Audi service center for further diagnosis.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11009366