2021-2024 Audi Phone Call Interference TSB 2065485/5

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 23 10 2065485/5 to address a specific issue affecting phone calls in certain models. This bulletin, which supersedes Group 91 number 23-86 dated March 31, 2023, provides guidance for technicians on diagnosing and resolving customer complaints related to phone call quality.

The TSB focuses on a particular type of "Audi phone call interference" where a whistling noise is heard during calls, especially when it correlates with the engine's RPM. This issue affects various 2021-2024 Audi models, including the Q3, A3, S3, and RS 3.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice the following symptoms related to phone calls and the Speech Dialog System:

• When making a phone call via Bluetooth, the receiving person is concerned about interference during the phone call.
• The interference is described as a "whistling noise that changes notably with the engine's RPM."
• The "Speech Dialog System (SDS) is not working," although hands-free calls are still possible.

Technicians have confirmed that no relevant diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are typically stored in the vehicle's system when this concern is present. However, the customer concern can usually be reproduced during testing.

Important Warnings

Audi has issued specific warnings regarding this repair and the handling of the Onboard Communications Unit (OCU):

• CAUTION: The problem can also be caused by certain repair methods. Removing the connector from the OCU while the 12V battery is connected to the vehicle can result in permanent damage to the OCU.
• NOTICE: Before applying this TSB, please make sure that the problem is reproducible and that the interference noise is coupled to the engine RPM. Otherwise, this TSB does not apply and repairs done according to this TSB may not resolve the customer concern.

Technical Background

According to Audi, the root cause of this "Audi phone call interference" is a hardware issue. Specifically, a problem with the power supply filter within the onboard communications unit (OCU), identified as J949 (address word 0075), can cause interference to be coupled into the microphone signal. This results in the whistling noise heard during phone calls.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the phone call interference, technicians are instructed to perform the following steps:

1. Disconnect Battery: The negative terminal of the vehicle's 12V battery must be disconnected to prevent damage during the repair process.
2. Replace OCU: The emergency onboard communications unit (-J949-) is to be replaced. This procedure should follow the appropriate repair instructions found in ELSA, Audi's electronic service information system.
3. Reconnect Battery: After the OCU replacement, the negative terminal of the 12V battery is reconnected.
4. Run Test Plan: A part replacement test plan must be executed on the newly installed -J949- unit (diagnostic address 0075).
5. Verify Repair: Finally, the technician must check whether the customer's concern regarding the phone call interference has been resolved.

Required Parts and Tools

Technicians will need to consult ETKA (Audi's electronic parts catalog) and ELSA for the most current information regarding parts and fasteners. The primary component to be replaced is the Onboard Communications Unit.

• Onboard Communications Unit: Quantity 1 (Part number to be sourced from ETKA)
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual (Part numbers to be sourced from ETKA/ELSA)

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty program, subject to specific conditions:

• Claim Type: Applies to vehicles up to 48 Months/50,000 Miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, it falls under G10, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.
• Service Number: 9170
• Damage Code: 0039
• Labor Operations: Technicians should use labor operation codes 9170 19XX or 9170 55XX for removing and installing/replacing the telematics control module. Refer to the Service Repair Time (SRT) guide for associated operations.
• Diagnostic Time: Specific time units are allocated for disconnecting/securing the 12V battery (10 TU) and performing the Guided Fault Finding (GFF) diagnostic protocol (Max 50 TU). Road tests before and after the service procedure have no allowance.
• Claim Comment: All warranty claims must include the comment "As per TSB 2065485/5" and adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 10238360