2021-2022 Audi pre sense Restricted Function Icon TSB

Many 2021-2022 Audi owners may notice a warning icon related to the Audi pre sense system appearing on their dashboard shortly after starting the engine. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 90 20 73 2059891/3 addresses this concern, clarifying that it is not an indication of a fault but rather a normal operational characteristic.

The TSB, which supersedes an earlier bulletin (20-68), provides important information for both technicians and vehicle owners regarding this common occurrence. It helps to prevent unnecessary repairs and provides reassurance that the vehicle's safety systems are functioning as intended.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe the following symptoms:

• An "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" icon or a similar "Audi pre sense restricted function icon" is displayed on the instrument cluster.
• This icon typically appears for approximately 20 seconds after the engine starts.
• After this brief period, the icon usually disappears on its own.
• In some models, the vehicle may need to be moved a short distance before the initialization indicator goes out.

This behavior is consistent across various models and is not indicative of a malfunction. If you experience an Audi e-tron pre sense fault message, it's likely this normal initialization.

Fault codes / DTCs

This Technical Service Bulletin does not mention any specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) associated with this condition. The display of the "Audi pre sense restricted function icon" is considered normal operation rather than a fault that would trigger a DTC.

What the service bulletin says

According to Technical Service Bulletin 90 20 73 2059891/3, the appearance of the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" icon is a normal part of the system's startup sequence. The front camera for driver assist systems, identified as R242, requires about 20 seconds to fully initialize after the ignition is switched on. In some cases, a velocity signal (meaning the vehicle needs to move) is also required for the camera to complete its startup process.

The bulletin explicitly states that no repair is necessary for this condition. Service technicians are advised not to perform any repairs related to this concern, as it is considered normal behavior. The TSB is purely informational and does not fall under Audi Warranty claims.

What to do

If you own a 2021-2022 Audi and observe the "Audi pre sense restricted function icon" or the "Audi pre sense not available at the moment" message after starting your vehicle, there is no need for concern. This is a normal operational characteristic as the R242 front camera initializes.

• Do not seek repairs: As per the TSB, no repairs are required or recommended for this behavior. Attempting to repair this condition may lead to unnecessary costs or denied warranty claims.
• Understand the system: The message simply indicates that the pre sense system is in the process of becoming fully active. Once the R242 camera completes its startup, the icon will disappear.
• Drive normally: If the icon persists beyond 20 seconds, especially in models where movement is required, simply driving a short distance should resolve the display.

This information should alleviate any worries about an Audi e-tron pre sense fault related to this specific icon. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for general information on warning lights and driver assistance systems.

Source: NHTSA ID 10181185