2022-2025 Audi/VW Control Unit H53 Return Notice

What is Special Notice SM 66-2024?

Volkswagen Group has issued Special Notice SM 66-2024, a parts circular specifically for parts managers and inventory personnel. This notice outlines a requirement for dealers to return certain control units to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC). The primary goal is to ensure prompt credit for dealers and to maintain the quality of parts available to customers. This notice applies to various 2022-2025 Audi and Volkswagen models, including the Audi A3, S3, RS 3, and Volkswagen GTI, Golf R.

Affected Control Unit and Specific Hardware Version

The notice specifically targets the 5WA-980-556-B (Control Unit). It is crucial to note that only parts with a particular hardware version are affected: hardware version H53. The document explicitly states, "Only parts with hardware version H53 are affected and must be returned. All other software versions are good." This means that if a control unit 5WA-980-556-B does not have the H53 hardware version, it is considered acceptable and does not need to be returned. For example, if you have an Audi S3 control unit H53, it falls under this notice.

Important Instructions for Dealers

Dealers are instructed to return all affected 5WA-980-556-B Control Units with hardware version H53 to their PDC no later than November 13, 2024. The process involves filing a separate "Claim with Return" using the Special Notice Number SM 66-2024. Dealers must review their Parts On Command for delivery list documents, enter delivery document numbers on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label, and include a copy of the delivery document with the returned parts.

Critical Warning for Returns

It is vital for dealers to adhere to the deadline. The notice clearly states: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This emphasizes the strict cutoff for processing these returns. Dealers are also advised to re-order any required new materials using the same part number, ensuring they receive compliant components for future service needs. This process helps manage inventory and prevent the distribution of parts with the specific hardware version H53.

Why This Matters to Vehicle Owners

While Special Notice SM 66-2024 is directed at dealers for parts management, it indirectly benefits vehicle owners. This proactive measure by Volkswagen Group ensures that potentially problematic control units are removed from the parts supply chain. This helps prevent future issues that could arise if a vehicle, such as an Audi S3 control unit H53, were to be fitted with a non-compliant part during a repair. Owners of 2022-2025 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, and Volkswagen GTI, Golf R models can be assured that the manufacturer is actively managing the quality of replacement parts. If your vehicle requires a control unit replacement, the dealer will use a part that meets the latest specifications, avoiding the specific hardware version H53 identified in this notice.

NHTSA ID: 11010019