2022-2025 Audi Black Optic Trim Peeling / Spotting TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 66 24 07 2074058/1 to address customer concerns regarding the finish on black optic exterior trim. This TSB, dated May 28, 2024, provides information for technicians and owners about the nature and cause of peeling or spotted trim.

Symptoms

Owners may observe that the finish on their black optic exterior trim is peeling or spotted. Workshop findings confirm various degrees of damage to the trim finish. This can manifest as:

• Peeling finish: The protective layer on the trim begins to lift and separate.
• Spotting: Discoloration or marks appearing on the trim surface.
• Delamination: The finish detaching from the underlying material, often in a droplet pattern.
• Blistering: Small bubbles forming under the surface of the finish, visible under magnification.

These symptoms are often seen on components like door trim and adjacent rubber strips, indicating a spread of the damaging agent.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Laboratory analysis of damaged trim components revealed traces of Fluorine and Phosphorus. These elements are not part of Audi's manufacturing process for trim components. Instead, they are commonly found in more aggressive cleaning agents, such as insect removers or wheel cleaners. The TSB identifies these cleaning materials as the root cause of the damage to the black optic trim. These agents chemically attack the finish, leading to delamination.

Furthermore, the use of high-pressure washers can accelerate the extent of this trim damage. The combination of harsh chemicals and forceful water application significantly contributes to the degradation of the trim's finish. The damage caused by these external factors is irreversible and cannot be repaired through refinishing.

Important Warnings

Audi explicitly states that the damage described in TSB 66 24 07 2074058/1 is due to outside influence and is not covered by any Audi Warranty. Because the root cause of the finish failure has been determined to be chemical contamination from aggressive cleaning agents, trim replacement under warranty is prohibited. Owners should be aware that any repairs related to this specific type of damage will be at their own expense.

Repair Procedure Summary

For vehicles exhibiting the peeling or spotted black optic trim, the affected trim components will need to be replaced. Since the damage is irreversible and cannot be repaired, replacement is the only solution. However, as noted in the