2019-2026 Audi Overhead View Camera Calibration Fails TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 90 24 45 2069670/2 to address instances where the overhead view camera (TopView) system fails calibration. This TSB, which supersedes TSB Group 90 number 23-13 dated March 15, 2023, provides comprehensive guidance for technicians to diagnose and resolve issues preventing successful camera calibration across various 2019-2026 Audi models. Owners experiencing problems with their Audi e-tron TopView calibration should be aware of the potential causes and solutions outlined in this bulletin.

Symptoms

The primary symptom owners or technicians will notice is that the overhead view camera system cannot be calibrated. During diagnostic procedures, the diagnostic tester and the MMI calibration screen may display messages such as:

• "Calibration could not be performed."
• "Status: not active"
• "Line calibration error:"
  • "Rear left area: detected"
  • "Rear right area: detected"
  • "Front left area: NOT detected"
  • "Front right area: detected"
  • "Left horizontal area: detected"
  • "Left vertical area: NOT detected"
  • "Right horizontal area: detected"
  • "Right vertical area: NOT detected"

These messages indicate that certain areas of the calibration unit were not correctly identified, leading to an unsuccessful calibration.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The TSB identifies several common reasons why the Audi e-tron TopView calibration might fail:

• Calibration Unit Not Set Up Properly: The diagnostic tester and MMI calibration screen show that not all areas of the calibration unit were identified correctly. This suggests the calibration unit itself might be improperly positioned or configured.
• Insufficient Lighting: Similar to improper setup, insufficient or excessive lighting conditions can prevent the camera from correctly detecting all areas of the calibration unit. Reflections or shadows on the calibration unit are key indicators.
• License Plate Frame and/or License Plate in Field of Vision: If the vehicle's front camera's view is obstructed by the license plate or its frame, the calibration process will fail because the camera cannot clearly see the calibration unit.
• Camera Picture Fuzzy/Distorted: Contamination on the camera lens, such as dirt or smudges, can lead to a washed-out or distorted image, preventing accurate calibration.
• Camera Not Installed Correctly: Even if all calibration unit areas are detected, the calibration might still fail if the camera itself is improperly installed. This could involve incorrect positioning in its bracket or if the bracket is not level or fully engaged.
• Insufficient Vehicle Ride Height: The vehicle's ride height plays a crucial role in camera calibration. If the height correction values of the camera (Z-axis) are outside the specified tolerances, calibration will not succeed. This can be caused by issues like transport locks still fitted or incorrect tire pressure.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the overhead view camera calibration failure, technicians should perform the following checks and corrective actions as guided by TSB 90 24 45 2069670/2:

1. Verify Calibration Unit Setup: Ensure the calibration unit is set up precisely according to the Workshop Manual specifications. Correct any discrepancies in its positioning.
2. Check Lighting Conditions: Adjust the lighting around the vehicle to eliminate reflections or shadows on the calibration unit. All lines of the calibration unit must be clearly visible to the camera.
3. Remove Obstructions: If the license plate or its frame is obstructing the front camera's view, temporarily remove them during the calibration procedure.
4. Clean Camera Lenses: Inspect all cameras for any contamination. If a camera image appears fuzzy or distorted, clean the affected camera lens thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
5. Inspect Camera Installation: Check the physical installation of the cameras. Ensure they are correctly positioned in their brackets and that the brackets are level and properly engaged.
6. Adjust Vehicle Ride Height: Verify the vehicle's ride height at both the front and rear wheel arches. Correct any issues such as fitted transport locks or incorrect tire pressure. If the camera still doesn't calibrate due to ride height, perform the "Headlight basic setting" in "Guided Functions" to recalibrate the level sensors, which often enables successful Audi e-tron TopView calibration.

Important Warnings

This Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only and is not applicable to any Audi Warranty. Owners should be aware that this document provides diagnostic and repair information for technicians.

Owner Action

If your Audi's overhead view camera system is displaying messages like "Calibration could not be performed" or if you suspect an issue with your Audi e-tron TopView calibration, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi service center. They have the necessary diagnostic tools and expertise to perform the checks and corrective actions outlined in TSB 90 24 45 2069670/2.