2019-2026 Audi Steering Wheel Heating Not Sufficient TSB 2065978/5

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2065978/5 to address customer concerns regarding the steering wheel heating system in various 2019-2026 Audi models. This bulletin clarifies that what might be perceived as a fault, such as the 2022 Audi e-tron steering wheel heating not feeling warm enough, is often a normal characteristic of the system's operation rather than a defect.

This informational TSB aims to help technicians and owners understand the factors that influence the perceived performance of the steering wheel heating, ensuring that unnecessary repairs are avoided. It highlights several conditions that can lead to the impression of insufficient or uneven heating, providing a detailed technical background.

TSB Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone several revisions to update its information and scope:

• Revision 5: The header was revised to include additional model years, expanding the applicability of the bulletin.
• Revision 4 (January 9, 2025): The 'Condition' section was revised with updated information, and the 'Technical Background' section also received updated information.
• Revision 3 (August 4, 2023): The header was revised to include additional model years.

Symptoms and Complaint Categories

Owners may notice several conditions that lead them to believe their steering wheel heating is not functioning correctly. These reported symptoms, as categorized by Audi, include:

Customer-Reported Complaints

• Chassis -> steering, steering assist -> heat output for steering wheel heating:
  • Functionality -> irregular
  • Functionality -> no function
  • Functionality -> does not switch on/connect
  • Functionality -> cannot be activated
  • Component, automotive fluids -> too little
  • Functionality -> partially out of order

Workshop-Identified Complaints

• Chassis -> steering -> steering wheel -> heating element for steering wheel heating:
  • Functionality -> no function

It is important to note that this TSB explicitly states, "There are no DTCs related to the topic," meaning no diagnostic trouble codes will be stored in the vehicle's system for these perceived issues.

Understanding the Issue: Technical Background

Audi's Technical Service Bulletin 2065978/5 provides a comprehensive explanation for why the steering wheel heating might not feel consistently warm or heat as quickly as expected. These points are crucial for understanding the normal operation of the system.

Uneven Heat Distribution

The surface temperature of the steering wheel may vary at different locations. This uneven heat distribution is a normal characteristic and can give the impression that the steering wheel heating is insufficient or not working at all. Factors such as the material composition of the steering wheel and how heat dissipates through different sections contribute to this variation. Specifically, the surface temperature of the leather may be lower in the vicinity of the spokes compared to the rest of the steering wheel, as some heat dissipates into the spokes.

Time to Reach Target Temperature

It can take over 30 minutes for the steering wheel to reach its target temperature of approximately 30°C ± 3°C (86°F ± 5°F). The actual time required is heavily influenced by the interior temperature of the vehicle and the settings of the heater/air conditioner. In colder environments, the system will naturally take longer to achieve the desired warmth.

Driver's Hand Placement and Perceived Temperature

The way a driver holds the steering wheel can also affect the perceived temperature. For example, the surface of the top part of the steering wheel (12 o'clock position) may be heated by sunlight, leading to a noticeable temperature difference. If the driver holds the steering wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, their hands will warm up the leather in those areas. If they then touch the steering wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, those areas may feel cooler because they have not been warmed by the driver's hands.

NTC Temperature Sensor Readings

The NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature sensor, which monitors the steering wheel's heat, is fitted in the foam underneath the cover. This placement means the sensor measures the temperature internally, not directly on the surface. When the desired surface temperature of 30°C (86°F) is reached, the measured value for the sensor underneath the cover is typically 34°C (93°F). This difference between the internal sensor reading and the external surface temperature can lead to a perception that the steering wheel is not as warm as expected.

Nature of the TSB: No Repair Procedure

This Technical Service Bulletin is purely informational. It explicitly states "Production Solution: Not Applicable" and "Service: Not Applicable." This means the TSB does not outline a specific repair procedure, part replacement, or software update to address the perceived issues with steering wheel heating. Instead, it serves to educate technicians and owners on the normal operating characteristics of the system.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of a critical detail regarding this Technical Service Bulletin. The TSB explicitly states: "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This means that if you experience the symptoms described, and they fall within the normal operating characteristics outlined in the bulletin, any diagnostic work or attempted repairs by a dealership may not be covered under your vehicle's warranty.

What to Do If Your Audi Steering Wheel Heating Isn't Working

If you are experiencing concerns with your 2019-2026 Audi's steering wheel heating, such as the 2022 Audi e-tron steering wheel heating not feeling warm enough or heating unevenly, it's important to first understand the information provided in TSB 2065978/5. The bulletin suggests that many perceived issues are normal operating characteristics.

Consider the environmental conditions, the time it takes for the system to warm up, and how you typically hold the steering wheel. If, after considering these factors, you still believe there is a malfunction beyond the normal operating conditions described, you may consult an authorized Audi service center. However, be mindful that this TSB is informational, and any diagnosis or repair for these specific conditions may not be covered under warranty.

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NHTSA ID: 11023748