2021 Audi Models Flange Nut Part Update SM 39-2021

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 39-2021, a parts circular primarily aimed at dealership parts managers and inventory personnel. This notice highlights an important update regarding a specific component: a flange nut. The goal is to streamline the parts supply chain and ensure that only the most current and correct parts are stocked and used for vehicle service and repairs.

This update affects various 2021 Audi models, including the Audi e-tron, A4, A5, A6, A7, Q5, Q7, and Q8. Owners of these vehicles can be assured that their dealerships are being guided to maintain an accurate inventory of necessary parts.

Why Audi is Updating Flange Nut Part Numbers

Part number changes, like the one detailed in Special Notice SM 39-2021, are common in the automotive industry. They typically occur due to design improvements, supplier changes, or enhancements in manufacturing processes. By updating the part number for the flange nut, Audi aims to ensure that any replacement parts used meet the latest specifications for quality, performance, and safety. This proactive measure helps maintain the integrity and reliability of your Audi vehicle.

Ensuring dealers have the correct parts on hand is crucial for efficient and accurate service. This change for the Audi e-tron flange nut and other models helps prevent the use of outdated components, which could potentially lead to fitment issues or compromise the long-term durability of a repair.

Understanding the Part Number Change

The Special Notice SM 39-2021 specifically identifies two flange nut part numbers:

• Old Part Number: WHT 007 610 (Flange Nut)
• New Part Number: WHT 010 234 (Flange Nut)

Dealers are instructed to remove the old part from their inventory and replace it with the new, updated version. This ensures that when a flange nut is required for service on a 2021 Audi e-tron or any other affected model, the technician will install the most current and appropriate component.

Detailed Return Procedure for Dealers

Audi has provided a clear procedure for dealerships to follow to manage this part number transition effectively. This process is designed to allow dealers to receive credit for returning the old parts and to promptly stock the new ones. The following claims procedures are to be used:

1. File a Claim: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return." When selecting the item type, they should choose "Dir Sup. Req. Return." It is important to complete the dealer comments section with the Special Notice Number (SM 39-2021) and the Parts Circular number referenced in the document.
2. Review Delivery List: The day after filing the claim, dealers should review "Parts On Command" for the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays encountered should be promptly communicated to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).
3. Enter Document Number: The 40000XXXXX delivery document number must be entered on a "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label.
4. Adhere Return Label: The "YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN" label needs to be securely adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include Delivery Document: One copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s) package.

Important Warnings for Dealerships

Audi has set a strict deadline for the return of the old flange nut inventory. Dealers are advised that "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." The deadline for returning inventory of the old part (WHT 007 610) to the facing PDC was June 1, 2021.

Re-ordering New Materials

After completing the return process for the superseded part, dealerships are instructed to re-order the required new materials. The new part number for the flange nut is WHT 010 234. This ensures that the dealership's inventory is up-to-date with the latest Audi specifications, supporting efficient and accurate service for customers with affected 2021 Audi models.

NHTSA ID: 10193614