2025 Audi A3/S3/RS 3 Drive System Warning TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2025 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 vehicles may notice several issues related to a software problem in the gateway control unit. The primary symptom is a warning displayed in the instrument cluster concerning the drive system. If your vehicle is equipped with travel assist, a warning message for this system may also appear.

Additionally, the Audi drive select function might become unusable. Owners may also observe specific malfunction displays, including: "transmission malfunction display", "interference display for emergency call service", "driver assistance malfunction display", "engine start malfunction indicator", "shock absorber control system malfunction display", "power steering malfunction display", and "ABS malfunction display". These complaints are often difficult to reproduce during workshop visits.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing the Audi A3 drive system warning, technicians may find specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the vehicle's control units:

Diagnostic Address	Diagnostic Trouble Code	Fault Symptom	Storage State
0001 - Engine electronics	P164700	Checking coding/versions of in powertrain	static
005F - Information electronics	U111100	Function restriction due to missing message	static

These codes indicate issues with control module communication and coding verification within the powertrain and information electronics systems.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the Audi A3 drive system warning and related malfunctions is a software issue. This prevents the correct initialization of various systems after the vehicle is started. This software incompatibility leads to the display of warning messages in the instrument cluster for the affected systems, including the drive system, travel assist, and Audi drive select.

Repair Procedure Summary

The solution for the Audi A3 drive system warning involves updating the software for the data bus diagnostic interface J533 (DA0019). This is performed using the Software Version Management (SVM) system.

1. Prepare for Update: Follow all instructions in TSB 2011732 for SVM operating procedures.
2. Flash Control Unit: Flash the data bus diagnostic interface J533 (DA0019) via SVM. Use the "Flash" mode on the ODIS tester.
3. Enter SVM Code: The specific SVM code required for this update is 19A030.
4. Post-Update Steps: After the software update is complete, unplug both the diagnostic connector and any charger from the vehicle.
5. Vehicle Cycle: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Then, lock the vehicle and wait for five minutes.
6. Clear Event Memory: Conclude the diagnostic procedure via ODIS to delete any event memory entries generated during the flashing process.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, an authorized Audi workshop will require:

• An ODIS tester for diagnostic and flashing procedures.
• Access to the Software Version Management (SVM) system.
• Reference to TSB 2011732 for detailed SVM operating instructions.

Important Warnings

Audi has issued specific warnings for this software update, especially concerning vehicles with high-voltage components:

• High-Voltage Vehicles: To prevent the high-voltage battery from charging during the software update, the high-voltage charging cable on vehicles with high-voltage components must be unplugged BEFORE the SVM code is entered.
• Equipment Damage: High-voltage equipment may be damaged if the high-voltage battery is charged during a software update.
• Software Update Notice: The software for the diagnostic interface J533 (DA0019) must be updated. Technicians should observe all information and instructions under "Additional Information" in the TSB.
• Customer Refusal: If a customer declines the software update, they must be informed that this could lead to ongoing issues or restrictions with the use of the vehicle or individual components.
• TSB Validity: All part and service references provided in this TSB (2078456) are subject to change and/or removal. Always consult with the Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a Audi A3 drive system warning or any of the described symptoms in your 2025 Audi A3, S3, or RS 3, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. The repair involves a software update to the gateway control unit. This Technical Service Bulletin 2078456/1 supersedes Pending Service Solution (PSS) TSB 2077114.

Warranty coverage for this repair depends on your vehicle's warranty status. If your vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only, meaning the cost may not be covered.

Source: NHTSA ID 11021466