2021-2023 Audi Q3/A3/S3/RS3 Bluetooth Phone Interference TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 22 41 2065485/3 to address a specific audio interference problem affecting Bluetooth phone calls in several models. This TSB, which supersedes Group 91 number 22-34 dated October 11, 2022, provides guidance for technicians on how to resolve a whistling noise that can be heard by the receiving party during phone calls. This issue, including the specific 2022 Audi S3 Bluetooth phone interference, is directly linked to the engine's RPM.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice a distinct issue when making phone calls via Bluetooth. The primary symptom is a "whistling noise that changes notably with the engine's RPM" that the person on the other end of the call experiences. This interference can make phone conversations difficult and frustrating.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

When diagnosing this issue, technicians should confirm that the problem is consistently reproducible. It is crucial to verify that the interference noise is indeed coupled to the engine's RPM, meaning its pitch or intensity changes with engine speed. Importantly, this specific problem does not typically store any relevant Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in the vehicle's system, requiring a symptom-based diagnosis.

Important Warning

Before proceeding with any repairs based on TSB 91 22 41 2065485/3, it is essential to ensure that the problem is reproducible and that the interference noise is clearly linked to the engine's RPM. If these conditions are not met, this TSB may not apply, and performing the outlined repairs may not resolve the customer's concern. This ensures that the correct diagnosis is made for the 2022 Audi S3 Bluetooth phone interference and other affected models.

Technical Background

The root cause of this Bluetooth phone interference has been identified as a hardware issue within the power supply filter of the Onboard Communications Unit (OCU), identified as J949 (address word 0075). This defect allows engine-related interference to be coupled into the microphone signal, resulting in the whistling noise heard during phone calls.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 91 22 41 2065485/3 involves replacing the faulty Onboard Communications Unit (OCU). The steps are as follows:

1. Battery Disconnection: The negative terminal of the vehicle's 12V battery must be disconnected to ensure safety during the repair.
2. OCU Replacement: The emergency Onboard Communications Unit (OCU) -J949- is to be replaced. This replacement should be performed according to the specific repair instructions found in the ELSA service information system.
3. Battery Reconnection: After the OCU replacement, the negative terminal of the 12V battery is reconnected.
4. Test Plan Execution: A part replacement test plan must be run on the newly installed -J949- unit, using diagnostic address 0075.
5. Verification: Finally, the technician must verify that the customer's concern regarding the whistling noise during Bluetooth phone calls has been resolved.

Required Parts

The primary component required for this repair is a new Onboard Communications Unit. Technicians should consult ETKA (Electronic Parts Catalog) for the correct part number and any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, or screws as specified in the repair manual.

Warranty Information

This repair may be covered under warranty, depending on the vehicle's age and mileage. The claim types applicable are 110 (for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles) and G10 (for CPO Covered Vehicles, requiring owner verification). If the vehicle is outside these warranty parameters, the Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

• Service Number: 9170
• Damage Code: 0039
• Labor Operations: Specific labor operations for removing and installing/replacing the telematics control module include 9170 19XX and 9170 55XX. Loosening and securing the negative 12V battery terminal connection is covered under 9785 0999.
• Diagnostic Time: GFF 0150 0000, with a maximum of 50 Technical Units (TU).
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2065485/3.

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

Revision History

This TSB has undergone several revisions to refine the repair procedure and update vehicle applicability:

• Revision 3 (November 2, 2022): Updated the service procedure with revised troubleshooting steps.
• Revision 2 (October 11, 2022): The header was revised to include Model Year 2023 vehicles.
• Revision 1 (December 14, 2021): Initial publication of the TSB.

NHTSA ID: 10226905