2021-2022 Audi e-tron Battery Module Software Update

Why this update is needed

Audi has identified that the battery systems in certain e-tron vehicles, manufactured within a specific period, can experience issues with individual battery cell voltages. Without proper balancing, the overall capacity of the high-voltage battery system can be limited by the weakest cell. This can lead to individual cells becoming overloaded and aging more rapidly, affecting the battery's longevity and performance.

The 93N6 software update is a proactive measure to address these concerns. It optimizes the function of the battery modules control unit, specifically its balancing capabilities, and stabilizes the cell voltage measurement. This ensures more consistent performance and extends the lifespan of the high-voltage battery.

What's being updated

The remedy for this condition involves a software update to the battery modules control units. If necessary, further control units within the vehicle's system may also receive updates to ensure full compatibility and optimal performance. This Audi e-tron battery software update is critical for maintaining the health of your vehicle's high-voltage battery system.

Important Warnings and Prerequisites

Owners and technicians should be aware of several critical conditions and warnings related to the 93N6 update:

• Vehicle Eligibility: The procedure is only valid for vehicles that display the 93N6 code in the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen at the time of repair. Vehicles must also be within their High-Voltage Battery Warranty parameters.
• Dealer Inventory: This update must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale.
• Critical Recall Completion: If the 93V2 or 93U9 safety recall is open for your vehicle, the evaluation step for those campaigns must be completed before performing the 93N6 update. Failure to do so means the 93N6 software update will erase high-voltage battery historical data, leading to inaccurate evaluation of the battery cell modules. The 93N6 update must be completed before the software update in the 93U9 campaign.
• Diagnostic Software: The ODIS software on the diagnostic tester must be completely up to date.
• Battery Charger: A battery charger, such as the GRX3000VAS or equivalent, must be connected to the vehicle battery and remain connected throughout the software update. The battery voltage must stay above 12.5 volts. Control modules damaged by insufficient voltage will not be covered under warranty.
• Power Settings: Screen saver and power saving settings on the diagnostic tester must be turned off to prevent the tester from entering power save mode during the update, which could cause the update to fail.
• Diagnostic Tester Power: The VAS Diagnostic Tester must be plugged in using its supplied power adapters and should not be used on battery power alone. Using battery power risks the tester powering off, potentially damaging control modules.
• Flashing Method: The flash process must be performed using "Audi Flashing" and not Guided Fault Finding (GFF). Using GFF will prolong the process, and requests for additional time will not be considered for warranty claims.
• USB Connection: The VAS Diagnostics Interface MUST ONLY be connected to the diagnostic tester with a USB cable.
• Bluetooth/WiFi Prohibition: Using Bluetooth or WiFi for this action is PROHIBITED! Doing so increases the risk of losing connection during the update, which could damage control modules. Damage caused by using Bluetooth or WiFi is not covered, and warranty claims may be denied.
• Radiator Fan Warning: The radiator fan(s) may cycle ON at high speed during the update process. There is a serious risk of personal injury if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from the radiator fan(s) during the update.
• Customer Presets: As a best practice, customer presets should be documented before performing any update, in case these settings are lost.
• ODIS Sessions: All campaign software updates must be completed during a single, standalone ODIS Diagnostic Session. Any ODIS "Hot-Fix" patches must be removed from the scan tool before starting this operation.

Repair Procedure Summary

Performing the Audi e-tron battery software update involves several precise steps by a qualified technician:

1. Vehicle Preparation: The hood and battery cover are opened. A battery charger (e.g., GRX3000VAS) is attached to the vehicle battery or underhood charging posts in power supply mode. The positive cable connects to the positive terminal, and the negative cable connects to the chassis grounding lug (not directly to the battery's negative terminal).
2. Hazard Warning Lights: The hazard warning lights are switched on to prevent the system from entering bus sleep mode during the update.
3. Diagnostic Connection: The VAS6150X or VAS6160X Diagnostic Tester is connected to the vehicle. The ODIS program is started, and communication via USB is confirmed. If Bluetooth or WiFi symbols are shown, the diagnostic head must be disconnected and reconnected via USB.
4. Software Update Initiation: From the ODIS home screen, the technician selects "Flash" mode, then "Starting Flashing," and proceeds through the on-screen prompts, selecting "No RO" when prompted.
5. SVM Code Entry: The technician highlights "SVM – Code Input," selects "Perform test," and enters the corrective action code 93N6A268.
6. Update Execution: The update proceeds by following the remaining on-screen prompts.
7. Protocol Submission: After the flash is successfully completed, the diagnostic protocol is sent online.
8. Bus Sleep Mode: To clear any generated event memory entries, the vehicle is put into bus sleep mode by disconnecting the diagnostic tester, removing the key, and locking the vehicle with the remote for 6 minutes.

Required Tools

Technicians performing this update will require specific equipment:

• Battery Tester/Charger: GRX3000VAS (or equivalent)
• Diagnostic Tester: VAS6150X or VAS6160X (or equivalent)

Warranty Information

For warranty claims related to the 93N6 update, technicians should enter the claim as soon as possible. The Damage Code is 0099, and the Parts Vendor Code is 002. Claims are categorized for sold vehicles (Claim Type 7 10) and unsold vehicles (Claim Type 7 90). The Causal Indicator should be marked as labor as causal. Importantly, claims for vehicle wash/loaner services should not be submitted under this action.

Specific labor operations are:

• 2706 89 50: Connect battery charger (10 Time Units)
• 9301 25 99: Update battery module control module software (Time stated on diagnostic protocol)
• 9035 33 99: Activate bus sleep mode (10 Time Units)

To verify vehicle eligibility and for any questions regarding claim entry, technicians should consult the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen or contact Audi Warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID 11009284