2021-2022 Audi e-tron Battery Software Update 93N6

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 93N6 to address a software update for the battery modules control unit in certain 2021-2022 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback vehicles. This proactive update aims to improve the performance and longevity of the high-voltage battery by optimizing cell balancing and voltage measurement.

The 93N6 update is crucial for maintaining the health of your vehicle's battery system. It ensures that individual battery cells operate efficiently, preventing issues that could arise from imbalances or inaccurate voltage readings.

Why This Update Matters: Battery Cell Balancing

The high-voltage battery system in electric Audi e-tron vehicles is composed of numerous individual battery cells. These cells, while designed to be similar, can have slight variations in capacity and voltage. Without proper management, the overall capacity of the battery system can be limited by the weakest cell, leading to potential overloading and accelerated aging of individual cells.

This software update, identified as 93N6, optimizes the function of the battery modules control unit to enhance the balancing process and stabilize cell voltage measurements. This ensures that all battery cells contribute effectively, improving the overall efficiency and lifespan of the high-voltage battery.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has provided several critical advisories regarding this software update:

• Eligibility: The procedure for the 93N6 update is only valid for vehicles that display the "93N6" code in the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen on the day of repair.
• Dealer Inventory: This procedure must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale.
• Prior Safety Recalls: "All Safety Recalls must be completed prior to completing this campaign."
• Specific Recall Precedence: "If the 93V2 or 93U9 safety recall is open, the evaluation step, if applicable, in those campaigns must be completed before the 93N6. The software update in the 93N6 will erase the high-voltage battery historical data and will lead to an inaccurate evaluation of the high-voltage battery cell modules. After the evaluation step has been completed and a response received, the 93N6 must be completed BEFORE the software update in the 93U9."
• Radiator Fan Hazard: "Radiator Fan(s) may cycle ON high speed during the Update Process! There is a serious risk that personal injury may result if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from Radiator Fan(s) during Update Process!"
• Bluetooth/WiFi Prohibited: "Using Bluetooth or WiFi for this action is PROHIBITED! Damage caused to electronic components (e.g. ECM, TCM, etc.) during the SVM flash process is not covered."
• Battery Voltage: The vehicle's battery voltage must remain above 12.5 volts throughout the software update. Failure to maintain this voltage can cause the update to fail and potentially damage the control module. Damages resulting from insufficient voltage will not be covered under warranty.
• Hazard Warning Lights: The vehicle's hazard warning lights must be switched on during the update. If they are not, the procedure may cancel itself, as the lights prevent the system from entering bus sleep mode.
• ODIS Hot-Fix Patches: Any ODIS "Hot-Fix" patches installed on the scan tool must be removed before starting this operation.

Repair Procedure Summary

The 93N6 software update is a dealership-performed service that involves several steps to ensure a successful flash of the battery modules control unit. The process requires specific diagnostic equipment and adherence to strict guidelines.

1. Vehicle Preparation: The technician first verifies the vehicle's eligibility using the Elsa system, ensuring the 93N6 code is open. Any pending safety recalls, particularly 93V2 or 93U9, must be completed beforehand. The vehicle's hood and battery cover are opened, and a battery charger (such as the GRX3000VAS Tester/Charger) is connected to maintain a stable voltage above 12.5 volts. Hazard warning lights are activated, and screen saver/power saving settings are disabled on the diagnostic tester.
2. Diagnostic Tool Setup: An Audi-approved diagnostic tester (VAS6150X/VAS6160X) is connected to the vehicle using a USB cable. It is critical that Bluetooth or WiFi connections are NOT used for this update. The ODIS software on the diagnostic tester must be fully up to date, and any "Hot-Fix" patches must be removed.
3. Software Flash: The technician initiates the ODIS program, selects the "Flash" operating mode (avoiding "Guided Fault Finding" or GFF), and follows the on-screen prompts. The specific SVM code 93N6A268 is entered during the process. After the flash is successfully completed, the diagnostic protocol is sent online.
4. Finalization: To clear any event memory entries generated during the flashing, the vehicle is put into bus sleep mode. This involves disconnecting the diagnostic tester, removing the key, and locking the vehicle with the remote for six minutes.

Required Tools or Parts

This software update requires specialized equipment that only authorized Audi service centers typically possess:

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

Warranty Information

This 93N6 software update is covered under the vehicle's High-Voltage Battery Warranty. Owners will not incur charges for this service. Dealerships will process the claim using specific labor operations:

• 2706 89 50: Connect battery charger
• 9301 25 99: Update battery module control module software
• 9035 33 99: Activate bus sleep mode

Audi requires that customers be informed in writing about all work performed, including this update, on their repair order.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2021-2022 Audi e-tron or e-tron Sportback, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer to check if your vehicle is eligible for the 93N6 software update. While this is a proactive update to prevent future issues rather than addressing an immediate symptom, ensuring your Audi e-tron battery software update is current can help maintain optimal performance and longevity of your high-voltage battery system.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11009209