2019-2022 Audi e-tron Battery Control Unit Software Update

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 93N6, titled "Software Update for Battery Modules Control Unit – (High-Voltage Battery Warranty)", to address the high-voltage battery system in certain 2019-2022 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback models. This proactive update aims to enhance the longevity and performance of the high-voltage battery by improving the function of the battery modules control unit.

The Audi e-tron battery update is crucial for maintaining the optimal health of the vehicle's electric powertrain. The TSB, last revised on May 30, 2024, outlines the necessary software adjustments to prevent potential issues related to battery cell management.

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone several revisions:

• Revision 3 (May 30, 2024): Updated warranty parameters.
• Revision 2 (February 14, 2024): Updated work procedure information.
• Revision 1 (April 26, 2022): Original publication of the bulletin.

Why This Update is Important

The battery system in electric vehicles like the Audi e-tron consists of numerous individual cells. These cells, while designed to be similar, can have slight variations in capacity and voltage. Without an effective balancing function, the overall capacity of the battery system can be limited by the weakest cell. This can lead to individual cells being overloaded and aging more rapidly.

This TSB, identified as 93N6, addresses a potential error in cell voltage measurement that could affect the efficiency of the battery's balancing function. The software update optimizes the control unit's ability to balance cells and stabilize voltage measurements, ensuring the battery operates efficiently and reliably. This proactive Audi e-tron battery update helps to prevent future battery performance degradation.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners of affected vehicles should be aware of the following critical information:

• Pre-existing Safety Recalls: If your vehicle has open safety recalls, specifically the 93V2 or 93U9 safety recalls, these must be completed before the 93N6 software update. Performing the 93N6 update first will erase historical high-voltage battery data, leading to an inaccurate evaluation of the high-voltage battery cell modules.

Diagnosis and Eligibility

To determine if a vehicle is eligible for this Audi e-tron battery update, technicians must check the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen. The vehicle must show the 93N6 code as "open" on the day of repair. It is also required that the vehicle falls within the High-Voltage Battery Warranty parameters. The Elsa system is the only valid and binding source for verifying eligibility; other systems are not considered valid and may result in non-payment of a warranty claim.

Repair Procedure Summary

The software update procedure involves several critical steps to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to vehicle components. This update is performed using specialized diagnostic equipment and must be conducted by skilled technicians.

1. Initial Setup: The technician begins by opening the hood and battery cover. A GRX3000VAS Tester/Charger (or equivalent) is connected to the vehicle's battery in POWER SUPPLY MODE. It is critical to connect the positive cable to the positive terminal and the negative cable to the chassis grounding lug, not directly to the negative battery terminal. The battery voltage must remain above 12.5 volts throughout the update to prevent control module damage.
2. Diagnostic Tool Preparation: Hazard warning lights must be switched on to prevent the system from entering bus sleep mode, which could cancel the procedure. The ODIS software on the VAS6150X/VAS6160X Diagnostic Tester (or equivalent) must be completely up to date, and any ODIS "Hot-Fix" patches must be removed. Screen saver and power saving settings on the diagnostic tester must be disabled to avoid interruption.
3. Connection and Software Launch: The VAS Diagnostic Tester is connected to the vehicle using a USB cable only. Bluetooth or WiFi connections are strictly prohibited due to the risk of connection loss and potential control module damage. Once connected, the ODIS program is started.
4. Flashing Process: From the ODIS home screen, the technician selects "Flash" mode. It is crucial to use "Audi Flashing" mode and not Guided Fault Finding (GFF), as GFF will prolong the process and may lead to denied warranty claims. The SVM code 93N6A268 is entered, and the technician follows the on-screen prompts to initiate the software update.
5. Post-Update Steps: After the flash is successfully completed, the diagnostic protocol is sent online. The technician then exits the flash session. To clear any event memory entries generated during the update, the vehicle must be put into bus sleep mode by disconnecting the diagnostic tester, removing the key, and locking the vehicle with the remote for six minutes.

Throughout the update, technicians are warned that radiator fan(s) may cycle on at high speed, posing a risk of personal injury. Hands and all objects must be kept clear of the fan blades.

Required Tools or Parts

Performing this software update requires specific equipment:

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

Warranty Information

This update is covered under Audi's High-Voltage Battery Warranty parameters. Dealers must submit claims as soon as possible after the update is performed. The service number for this campaign is 93N6, with a damage code of 0099 and a parts vendor code of 002. Claim types are 710 for sold vehicles and 790 for unsold vehicles, with labor marked as causal.

Specific labor operations and time units are:

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

Dealers are instructed not to claim for vehicle wash or loaner services under this action. For any questions regarding claim entry, Audi Warranty should be contacted.

Required Customer Notification

Audi requires that customers be informed in writing on the Repair Order about all work conducted on their vehicle, including any updates completed under this 93N6 campaign.

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Technical Service Bulletin 93N6.