2019-2026 Audi Pre Sense Warning, Jolt, or Braking TSB

Owners of various 2019-2026 Audi models, including the A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, e-tron, and e-tron GT, may experience unexpected activations of the Audi pre sense system. This can manifest as an "Audi pre sense warning", a warning jolt, or automatic braking engagement. Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2058077/10, scheduled for release on October 30, 2025, provides guidance for technicians to diagnose these customer complaints and differentiate between normal system operation and potential malfunctions.

This TSB is particularly relevant for owners of a 2022 Audi e-tron pre sense warning, as it details the various scenarios under which the system might intervene and how these should be interpreted. The document emphasizes understanding the system's limits and operational characteristics, which are crucial for both technicians and vehicle owners. It also highlights the importance of adhering to safety instructions and consulting the owner's manual regarding supporting systems, sensors, and cameras.

Revision History

Technical Service Bulletin 2058077/10 has undergone several revisions to ensure accuracy and include the latest model year information. Key revisions include:

• Revision 10: Revised Header to add model years.
• Revision 9 (September 18, 2024): Revised Warranty section, specifically updating claim types.
• Revision 8 (November 15, 2023): Revised Header to add MY25.

Symptoms of Unexpected Pre Sense Activation

Customers typically report an "unexpected Audi pre sense front intervention" which can include several distinct behaviors. These may involve an "Audi pre sense front warning" appearing visually in the instrument cluster, often accompanied by an audible warning tone. Some drivers might experience a physical "Audi pre sense front warning jolt" or even "Audi pre sense front partial braking" or "Audi pre sense front emergency braking" without a clear preceding event.

Common complaints related to the emergency braking function include: "functionality -> too early", "functionality -> misfire", "functionality -> faulty", and "functionality -> operation sequence incorrect". These indicate the system is activating under conditions that the driver perceives as inappropriate or incorrect. The TSB notes that during these events, the hazard flashers are typically not activated, nor are the side windows automatically closed, which distinguishes them from certain other safety system activations.

When these events occur, the instrument cluster displays the "Audi pre sense" symbol. This symbol can appear as a red triangle with an exclamation mark, or a red circular warning symbol resembling a brake symbol with an exclamation mark, as illustrated in Figures 1-2 of the bulletin.

Understanding Audi Pre Sense System Components

The Audi pre sense system relies on a network of sensors and control units to function effectively. These components work together to detect potential collision risks and initiate appropriate interventions:

• Control Units J769 and J770: These radar sensors are part of the lane change assist system and continuously monitor traffic behind the vehicle, even when Audi side assist is not active.
• Data Bus Diagnostic Interface J533 (Gateway): This unit transmits signals from various control units, including J769, to other systems within the vehicle.
• Airbag Control Unit J234: Based on information received from the J533 gateway, this unit decides which actuators to activate in a critical situation and sends commands to other control units.
• ABS Control Unit J104: This unit is responsible for issuing the "warning jolt" and independently braking the vehicle during partial or emergency braking interventions.

Diagnostic Procedure

When a customer reports an unexpected "Audi pre sense warning" or braking event, technicians are instructed to conduct a thorough interview. Key questions to ask include:

• "When did the Audi pre sense front intervention take place? [day, month, and year]"
• "Was the red Audi pre sense symbol displayed in the instrument cluster during the complaint? [yes/no]"
• "Was a warning tone issued while the red Audi pre sense symbol was displayed? [yes/no]"
• "Were the hazard warning lights switched on or the side windows closed at the same time? [yes/no]"

This initial information helps to contextualize the customer's experience. The primary diagnostic step involves performing the "Audi pre sense test program" within the ODIS diagnostic system. This program is found under the path: Test plan > Select self-test > Diagnostic capable system > 00A5 - Front sensors for driver assistant systems > 00A5 - Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) > Audi pre sense. The test program requires inputting the customer's complaint date and then checks for any pre sense front interventions that occurred within a three-day window surrounding that date. This structured approach helps to objectively verify the reported events.

Interpreting ODIS Test Results and System Behaviors

The TSB outlines various outcomes of the ODIS test program and provides corresponding explanations and procedures. This helps clarify whether a reported event indicates a fault or is simply the system operating as designed. Understanding these distinctions is key for addressing any 2022 Audi e-tron pre sense warning concerns.

No Intervention or No Symbol Displayed

If the ODIS test program shows "The customer experienced no Audi pre sense intervention," or if the customer confirms they did not see the "Audi pre sense" symbol in the instrument cluster, the TSB advises continuing with normal analysis, as this TSB likely does not apply. This suggests the reported issue might stem from a different cause or a misunderstanding of the system.

Audi Pre Sense Basic Event

An "Audi pre sense basic event" occurs when the customer observes the "Audi pre sense" symbol but does not hear a warning tone. In such cases, technicians are instructed to explain the basic operation and limitations of the Audi pre sense system to the customer, referencing the owner's literature and self-study programs. This type of event is usually considered normal system behavior, and further analysis under this TSB is not required.

Audi Pre Sense Rear Event

An "Audi pre sense rear event" involves the radar sensors of the lane change assist system (control units J769 and J770) continuously monitoring traffic behind the vehicle. Even if Audi side assist is not active, these sensors evaluate signals to detect the distance of vehicles behind. If a critical pre sense rear situation is detected, the lane change assist control unit J769 sends information to the data bus diagnostic interface J533 (gateway). The J533 then transmits these signals to the airbag control unit J234, which decides on appropriate activations and sends information to other control units. Similar to basic events, technicians should explain the system's operation and limits using owner's literature, as this is typically normal functionality.

Audi Pre Sense Front Warning

When the vehicle approaches a critical situation with a vehicle ahead or a stationary object, the instrument cluster provides visual and acoustic warnings. These warnings are part of the "Audi pre sense front warning" sequence, designed to alert the driver to potential collision risks. The timing of these warnings can be influenced by MMI adjustment options (early/medium/late/off). Technicians should explain the system's function and limits, encouraging owners to consult their vehicle's literature.

Audi Pre Sense Front Warning Jolt

If the driver does not react to the initial warnings, the ABS control unit J104 may issue an urgent "warning jolt." This jolt is a very brief, noticeable application of the brakes that does not significantly slow the vehicle. Its purpose is to regain the driver's attention and prompt an immediate reaction to prevent a collision. This is a critical safety feature, and its occurrence is a normal part of the pre sense system's escalating intervention strategy.

Audi Pre Sense Front Partial Braking

Should the driver apply the brakes but not sufficiently to prevent a collision, "Audi pre sense front partial braking" will activate. The system calculates the necessary braking performance and increases it to the level required to bring the vehicle to a standstill. This assists the driver in achieving optimal braking force during an emergency. Technicians should explain to the customer that they operated the brakes and Audi pre sense front provided additional braking assistance.

Audi Pre Sense Front Emergency Braking

In situations where the driver fails to react to the warning jolt or releases the accelerator pedal, the ABS control unit J104 will independently brake the vehicle. This "Audi pre sense front emergency braking" can range from gradual deceleration to a full deceleration (emergency stop), depending on vehicle speed. If a customer feels the vehicle braked for no reason and technical support is needed, the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) should be contacted.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi specifies that the "Audi pre sense test program" must only be performed once per complaint. However, if a customer specifies several times when the complaint occurred, the "Audi pre sense test program" may be performed a maximum of three times for that specific complaint. This limitation ensures efficient diagnostic procedures while allowing for repeated verification if necessary.

Warranty Information

For warranty claims related to this TSB 2058077/10, the following codes apply:

• Claim Type: If the vehicle is outside any warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only.
• Service Number: 9638
• Damage Code: 0039
• Labor Operations:
  • GFF (0150 0000): For the time stated on the diagnostic protocol.
  • Charge Battery (2706 8950): With associated operations, as per the Service Repair Time (SRT) guide.
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2058077/10.

All warranty claims submitted for payment must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. Claims are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Additional Resources

Further information on the Audi pre sense system can be found in the following resources:

• SSP: 662, Audi A8 type 4N: safety and assist systems: This Self-Study Program provides comprehensive details on the safety and assist systems in the Audi A8 (Type 4N), offering valuable background for understanding pre sense functionality.
• TSB 2069662: 90 Audi pre sense warning, warning jolt, and/or brake engagement (MQB/MEB): This related Technical Service Bulletin covers similar pre sense warnings and interventions for vehicles built on the MQB/MEB platforms, providing additional context and diagnostic insights.

What Owners Should Do

If you experience an unexpected "Audi pre sense warning" or any of the described interventions in your 2019-2026 Audi, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer. Describe the symptoms accurately, including when and how often they occur. The dealer will use TSB 2058077/10 and the ODIS "Audi pre sense test program" to diagnose the issue and determine if the system is functioning as intended or if further action is required. Understanding that many of these interventions are normal safety functions of your 2022 Audi e-tron pre sense warning system can help alleviate concerns.

NHTSA ID: 11025403