2022 Audi A3 and S3 Rear Bumper Paint Peeling TSB

Symptoms of 2022 Audi A3/S3 Rear Bumper Paint Peeling

Owners of 2022 Audi A3 and S3 models may observe paint peeling on the rear bumper cover. This condition is typically found where the bumper cover meets the rear side panel.

The paint peel can occur on the right side, left side, or both sides of the bumper cover. Initially, the peeling might be subtle and hard to notice, but it can progress to a more advanced stage where the dark primer coat becomes visible, especially with brighter paint colors.

Technical Background and Cause

Audi has identified that the 2022 Audi A3/S3 rear bumper paint peeling is caused by an inconsistency in the production process of the rear bumper cover. Specifically, the edges where the bumper cover meets the rear side panel were weakened.

This weakness makes the painted surfaces on these edges prone to paint peel over time. The manufacturer has since corrected the production process for the rear bumper cover.

Important Warnings for Owners

If your vehicle is experiencing the 2022 Audi A3/S3 rear bumper paint peeling, it is crucial to understand the recommended repair. Audi explicitly states, "Do not attempt to refinish the original bumper cover."

Refinishing the original bumper cover will not resolve the underlying technical issue. Due to the root cause, refinishing would only lead to a subsequent paint peel in the affected areas over time.

Repair Procedure Summary

For instances of 2022 Audi A3/S3 rear bumper paint peeling, Technical Service Bulletin 2066451/1 specifies that the rear bumper cover must be replaced. This is the only effective solution due to the production inconsistency.

Any paint defect, including this specific condition, requires authorization from an Audi After Sales Service Manager (AASM). This authorization process involves submitting requisite photo, video, or print documentation that describes the nature and location of the defect before any repair is initiated.

Required Parts and Tools

Technicians will need to consult ETKA (Electronic Parts Catalog) or ELSA (Electronic Service Information System) for specific part numbers and quantities. Key components for the repair include:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the Repair Manual.
• Rear Bumper Cover: The correct bumper cover must be identified using the VIN in ETKA.
• Paint: Specific paint materials are listed under 'MATERIAL' in Outside Material, with a maximum cost of $200.

Warranty Information

This TSB applies to paint defects that occur without evidence of outside impact, such as stone chips or scuffs. Cases showing external influence or deviations from the described condition should be addressed per standard warranty policies.

Warranty claims for this issue fall under specific claim types:

• Claim Type 950: For paint defects identified before vehicle delivery.
• Claim Type 150: For paint defects discovered after vehicle delivery.

If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only. The service number for this bulletin is 6369, and the damage code is 0067.

Labor operations associated with this repair include:

• Lane change assist ECM adjust: Code 9635 1550 (if equipped).
• Replace and paint new part: Codes L0011600 (Solid Paint), L0021600 (Metallic Paint), and L0031600 (Pearl Paint).
• Diagnostic Time (GFF): Checking and clearing fault codes are included in existing labor operations, with a code of 0150 0000.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

NHTSA ID: 10209250