2021-2022 Audi Q8 Emissions Service Action 27BQ Update

What is Audi Service Action 27BQ?

Audi has issued an important update to Emissions Service Action 27BQ, a campaign designed to address potential issues with the starter-alternator in specific 2021-2022 Audi vehicles. This service action, identified as 27BQ_REV20241115 and dated November 15, 2024, aims to ensure proper vehicle functionality and compliance with stringent emissions standards. This latest revision specifically announces a "fourth wave" of vehicles being added to the scope of this critical service. Owners of affected vehicles, such as those covered by the Audi Q8 Emissions Service Action 27BQ, will benefit from this proactive measure.

Why the Starter-Alternator Matters for Emissions

The starter-alternator is a crucial component in modern Audi vehicles, particularly those equipped with start/stop technology. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped and restarts it when the driver intends to move, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. A defective starter-alternator can inhibit the vehicle's start/stop functionality, preventing the engine from shutting off as intended. While the vehicle is stopped, this can lead to an increase in CO2 and other emissions, even if the emissions remain within certified standards. The purpose of this service action is to rectify this condition, ensuring the system operates as designed.

Repair Procedure Summary

Under Emissions Service Action 27BQ, authorized Audi dealerships will perform a replacement of the starter-alternator in all identified affected vehicles. This repair is provided at no cost to the owner, ensuring that all necessary updates are completed without financial burden. The procedure involves removing the existing starter-alternator unit and installing a new, updated component. This replacement is crucial for restoring full start/stop functionality and maintaining optimal emissions performance, aligning with Audi's commitment to environmental standards and vehicle reliability.

Owner Notification and What to Do

Audi is proactively notifying owners of vehicles included in this service action. For the newly added "fourth wave" of vehicles, owner notification letters are scheduled to be sent out in November 2024. If you own a 2021-2022 Audi A6, A6 allroad, A7, Q7, Q8, S6, S7, S8, RS 6 Avant, RS 7, or RS Q8, you should anticipate receiving an official notification if your vehicle is part of this expanded campaign. Upon receiving your letter, it is recommended to promptly contact your local authorized Audi dealership to schedule the necessary repair. This ensures your vehicle receives the required update to its starter-alternator system.

Important Information for Owners and Dealers

This dealer communication, dated November 15, 2024, emphasizes several key points for both Audi personnel and, by extension, vehicle owners. Dealers have been explicitly instructed to ensure that all staff involved with campaign-related responsibilities thoroughly review the revised circular published in ELSA and Service References in Elsa2Go. This ensures they possess the most current information regarding the Audi Q8 Emissions Service Action 27BQ and can accurately address customer inquiries. Furthermore, dealers are advised to discard any previously printed paper copies of the circular, replacing them with the most current version to prevent any outdated information from being used. Owners should be aware that while this is a service action, it is a critical update for emissions and vehicle performance, and the repair will be performed free of charge. No action is required from owners until they receive their official notification letter.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11011316