2023 Audi A3/S3/RS3 Airbag Light On TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2023 Audi A3, S3, and RS3 models may notice that the front passenger airbag indicator in the roof module lights up permanently after the engine is started. This persistent illumination signals a potential fault in the airbag system.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When this issue occurs, diagnostic scans of the airbag control unit J234 (diagnostic address 0015) typically reveal specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Other control units may also log related fault entries. The primary DTCs associated with the permanently lit Audi S3 airbag indicator are B101614 and B12F114.

Diagnostic Address	DTC	DTC Description
0015	B101614	Front passenger side airbag disabled indicator lamp, open circuit/short circuit to ground
0015	B12F114	Indicator lamp for front passenger airbag, open circuit/short circuit to ground
0009	B114815	Terminal 15 open circuit/short circuit to B+
0003	U140500	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0015	B201C00	Supply voltage implausible signal
0023	C121E00	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0044	U112300	Data bus error value received
0069	U140500	Terminal 15 Implausible signal
0075	U112300	Data bus error value received

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the permanently lit Audi S3 airbag indicator and associated DTCs is identified as software sensitivity within the Electronic Central Electrical (BCM), also known as J519 (diagnostic address 0009). This sensitivity can lead to incorrect readings or signals, causing the airbag indicator to remain active.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 96 23 86 2071392/1 outlines a software update to resolve this condition. The repair involves updating the Electronic Central Electrical (BCM) J519 control unit using the SVM action code 09A059. This procedure requires the use of the ODIS diagnostic system with DoIP (Diagnostic over Internet Protocol) for flashing the control module. Technicians must follow the instructions provided in TSB 2011732, titled "00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions," for proper execution of the software update.

The update process involves ensuring the diagnostic system is configured for DoIP communication. Once the software is updated, the system should be re-diagnosed to clear any stored fault codes and confirm the Audi S3 airbag indicator issue is resolved.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the software update, technicians will need the following:

• VAS 6160/VAS 6150: A VAS tester running the current version of ODIS (Windows 10).

What Owners Should Know

If your 2023 Audi A3, S3, or RS3 is experiencing a permanently illuminated front passenger airbag indicator, it is recommended to visit an authorized Audi dealership. The software update described in TSB 96 23 86 2071392/1 is typically covered under warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the G10 claim type applies, requiring owner verification.

It is important to note that if your vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, and repair costs may apply. The software update is designed to address the underlying software sensitivity in the BCM J519 that causes the indicator to stay on.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10242976