2022-2023 Audi A3 / S3 / RS 3 Airbag Indicator DTC B101614

Symptoms

Owners of 2022-2023 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 vehicles may notice that the front passenger airbag indicator in the roof module lights up permanently after the engine is started. This persistent illumination indicates a potential issue with the airbag system.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing this issue, technicians may find specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the airbag control unit (-J234-, diagnostic address 0015). The primary DTCs associated with the permanent front passenger airbag indicator are:

• DTC B101614: Front passenger side airbag disabled indicator lamp, open circuit/short circuit to ground
• DTC B12F114: Indicator lamp for front passenger airbag, open circuit/short circuit to ground

Additionally, other DTCs related to the Terminal 15 circuit or data bus errors may be logged in various control units, including the Electronic Central Electrical (BCM), -J519- (diagnostic address 0009). These include:

Diagnostic address	DTC	DTC description
0009	B114815	Terminal 15 open circuit/short circuit to B+
0003	U140500	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0015	B201C00	Supply voltage implausible signal
0023	C121E00	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0044	U112300	Data bus error value received
0069	U140500	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0075	U112300	Data bus error value received

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the permanent front passenger airbag indicator and associated DTCs, such as the Audi A3 airbag indicator B101614, is identified as a software sensitivity issue within the Electronic Central Electrical (BCM), also known as control unit -J519-. This sensitivity can lead to erroneous fault detections and the illumination of the warning light.

Important Warnings

When performing the software update, it is crucial to follow specific procedures for proper communication with the control modules. Always use DoIP (Diagnostic over Internet Protocol) when flashing a control module via ODIS in supported vehicles. To activate DoIP, technicians must navigate to "Administration>>General>>GFF Process>>DoIP communication>>Only allow DoIP communication." This setting will automatically reset after the diagnostic session concludes. A red LED light on the VAS 6154(A) diagnostic tool indicates that DoIP is active.

It is important to note that if your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is provided for informational purposes only. Warranty claims are subject to review by Audi Warranty policies.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 96 24 91 2071392/4 outlines a software update as the solution for the permanent front passenger airbag indicator. The repair involves updating the Electronic Central Electrical (BCM), J519 control unit, using the SVM action code 09A059. This update addresses the software sensitivity that triggers the fault codes and the warning light.

After the software update is completed, a headlight adjustment may be necessary. Technicians should perform this adjustment only if required to ensure proper headlight function. This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 96 number 23-90, dated December 11, 2023, with updated instructions and labor operations.

Required Tools or Parts

The primary tool required for this repair is a VAS tester, specifically the VAS 6160/VAS 6150, running the current version of ODIS (Windows 10). This diagnostic tool is essential for performing the SVM software update on the BCM.

Owner Action

If your 2022-2023 Audi A3, S3, or RS 3 exhibits a permanently lit front passenger airbag indicator, or if you suspect an Audi A3 airbag indicator B101614 fault, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. The dealership will be able to diagnose the issue, confirm the presence of relevant DTCs, and perform the necessary software update as described in TSB 96 24 91 2071392/4. This repair is typically covered under warranty for eligible vehicles.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 10249229