2021-2023 Audi e-tron Parts Circular SM 16-2025

Understanding Special Notice SM 16-2025

Audi has released Special Notice SM 16-2025, a crucial communication for its dealer network regarding inventory management for certain parts. This type of notice, often referred to as a parts circular, is a standard procedure for manufacturers to ensure that only the most current and correct components are available for service and repair operations. It helps maintain quality control and ensures that vehicles receive the latest revisions of parts.

This particular Audi e-tron parts circular focuses on a specific component, a plug, for the 2021-2023 Audi e-tron models. The primary goal is to streamline the supply chain and prevent the installation of outdated parts, thereby improving customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability.

Affected Parts and Their Replacements

The Special Notice SM 16-2025 identifies one specific part that dealers are instructed to return. The original part number is N-912-815-01, which is described as a "Plug." This indicates that Audi has either updated the design, material, or manufacturing process for this component, making the older version obsolete or less desirable for future use.

Dealers are advised to re-order new materials using the updated part number, WHT-012-968, also identified as a "Plug." This new part is the successor to N-912-815-01 and represents the current standard for this component. By ensuring dealers stock only the latest parts, Audi aims to provide consistent quality and performance across its service network.

Dealer Return Process

To facilitate the return of the N-912-815-01 parts and ensure proper credit, Audi has outlined a specific claims procedure for its dealers. This process is designed to be efficient and accurate, ensuring that inventory adjustments are handled correctly. Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" and select "Dir Sup. Req. Return" as the item type.

Detailed steps include completing dealer comments with the Special Notice Number SM 16-2025 and the Parts Circular number. Dealers are also required to review their Parts On Command for the Delivery List document, contact their facing PDC for any issues, and enter their delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label. This label must be adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts, and a copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s).

Important Deadlines and Warnings

Audi has set a strict deadline for the return of the N-912-815-01 parts. Dealers must return their inventory of these materials to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC) no later than March 18, 2025. This deadline is critical for dealers to receive credit for the returned items. The notice explicitly states, "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback."

This warning underscores the importance of timely action for dealers. It ensures that the transition to the new part, WHT-012-968, is completed efficiently across the entire network, preventing the accumulation of outdated inventory and ensuring that all future service work utilizes the most current components.

What This Means for Audi e-tron Owners

While Special Notice SM 16-2025 is primarily an internal communication for Audi dealers, it has indirect benefits for owners of the 2021-2023 Audi e-tron. This Audi e-tron parts circular signifies Audi's commitment to continuous improvement and quality assurance. By replacing an older part with a newer version, the manufacturer is likely addressing potential improvements in design, durability, or performance.

Owners can be confident that any future service or repair involving this specific plug will utilize the most up-to-date component, WHT-012-968. This proactive inventory management helps ensure that your vehicle benefits from the latest engineering standards, contributing to its long-term reliability and performance. Although this is not a recall, it is a positive indication of ongoing product refinement.