2021-2022 Audi MIB3 Phone Distorted Voice TSB 2079348/1

Owners of certain 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may experience an issue where the voice output during phone calls is intermittently distorted. This problem, detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2079348/1, specifically affects the MIB3 MEB system and can manifest as various unpleasant sounds during telephone operation or Bluetooth connections.

This TSB, released for publishing on October 7, 2025, provides a comprehensive solution for the "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" issue, ensuring clearer communication for drivers and passengers. It's important to note that this bulletin differentiates itself from other related issues, offering a targeted fix for this specific audio anomaly.

Symptoms of Distorted Voice Output

Customers experiencing this issue typically report that the voice output is intermittently distorted when making or receiving phone calls. Unlike some other communication issues where interference is heard by the person on the other end of the line, this particular problem means the driver and occupants inside the vehicle hear the distortion. This can significantly degrade call quality and overall user experience.

Common descriptions of the "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" include a "scratching" or "tinny noise." These sounds can make conversations difficult to understand and are a clear indication of the underlying software problem. The TSB also categorizes the complaint types as "noises, vibrations -> noise," "noises, vibrations -> distorted sound," and "functionality -> misfire" related to telephone operation and Bluetooth connections. If you notice these symptoms, your vehicle may be affected by the conditions described in TSB 2079348/1.

Technical Background

Audi has identified the root cause of the intermittent distorted voice output as a software issue within the vehicle's MIB3 MEB system. Modern infotainment systems like MIB3 rely heavily on complex software to manage various functions, including communication. A glitch or bug in this software can lead to unexpected audio processing errors, resulting in the reported distortion. The TSB clarifies that this is a software-specific problem, not a hardware failure.

This issue is distinct from the one described in TSB 2079193, which addresses "91 MIB3 - A3, Q3 - hands-free system; cyclical noise interference on other end of line." In that case, the interference was heard by the call recipient, whereas TSB 2079348/1 focuses on distortion audible to the vehicle occupants. Another related bulletin, TSB 2079596, also refers to "91 MIB3 MQB/MEB - phone intermittently with distorted voice output," indicating a broader concern across similar MIB3 platforms.

Control Units and Software Versions Involved

The primary control unit implicated in this issue is the 0075 - Emergency call module and communication unit. This module is critical for handling various communication functions within the vehicle, including phone calls and emergency services. The TSB lists several software versions associated with this unit that may be affected:

• 0538
• 0556
• 0664
• 0686
• B716

These software versions are internal identifiers used by technicians to determine if a specific module's software needs updating. If your vehicle's communication unit has one of these software versions, it is likely susceptible to the "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" problem.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings indicate that the complaint of distorted voice output can be reliably reproduced during diagnostic testing. This means that when a customer brings their vehicle in with this concern, technicians can perform specific tests, such as making a phone call, to confirm the presence of the scratching or tinny noise. The intermittent nature of the problem suggests that it might not occur on every call, but it is frequent enough to be a noticeable issue for owners.

Repair Procedure Summary

The resolution for the "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" issue involves a software update. A specific software update package is available to address the underlying software bug. The instructions for performing this update are detailed in a separate document, TSB 2079289, titled "00 Combined software update ID.S 3.8.2 for Audi Q4." This indicates that the update is a comprehensive package designed for the Audi Q4 and potentially other related models.

Technicians will need to perform the following general steps:

1. Charge the vehicle battery: Before any software update, it is standard practice to ensure the vehicle's 12V battery is fully charged to prevent interruptions during the update process, which could lead to module damage. The labor operation for this is 2706 8950, referring to the Service Repair Time (SRT) with associated operations.
2. Perform the software update: Using specialized diagnostic equipment, the technician will apply the software update package as per the instructions in TSB 2079289. This process will update the software of the 0075 - Emergency call module and communication unit to a newer, corrected version.
3. Perform adaptation drives: After the software update, additional work and adaptation drives may be required. These steps ensure that the newly updated software integrates correctly with other vehicle systems and that all communication functions are operating optimally. The labor operation for the software update and adaptation drives is 0151 0040, with an estimated time unit (TU) of 60.

It is crucial for technicians to follow the specific instructions provided in TSB 2079289 to ensure the update is performed correctly and resolves the "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" complaint effectively.

Warranty Information

Audi provides specific guidelines for claiming warranty coverage for this repair. The Service Number associated with this TSB is 9170, and the Damage Code is 0039. When submitting a claim, technicians should reference TSB 2079348/1 in the claim comments. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware that if the vehicle is outside of any warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only. This means that while the TSB provides the repair procedure, the cost of the repair for out-of-warranty vehicles would typically be borne by the owner. It is always recommended to check with your Audi dealership regarding specific warranty coverage for your vehicle.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2022 Audi S3, RS 3, A3, or Q3 and are experiencing "Audi MIB3 phone distorted voice" during calls, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. Describe the symptoms clearly, mentioning the scratching or tinny noise you hear. The dealership technicians will be able to diagnose the issue and apply the necessary software update as outlined in TSB 2079348/1.

It is advisable to mention that you are aware of TSB 2079348/1, as this can help expedite the diagnostic and repair process. Since this is a software update, the repair typically does not involve replacing hardware components unless other issues are identified.

Additional Information

All part and service references provided in this TSB (2079348/1) are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins to ensure the most current procedures and components are used for the repair.

NHTSA ID: 11025283