2021 Audi MMI 'Software Update Could Not Be Downloaded' TSB

Symptoms of the Audi MMI Software Update Issue

Owners of certain 2021 Audi vehicles may observe a specific message displayed on their wireless control head (SCON). The verbatim message states: "The software update could not be downloaded. Some of your device functions may only have limited availability. Please contact your Audi dealer, if necessary." This message indicates a problem with the MMI system's ability to download software updates, potentially affecting the functionality of some device features.

Technical Background and Diagnosis

According to Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 21 66 2062264/1, this issue stems from a software malfunction within the MIB3 infotainment system. The system erroneously displays the "software update could not be downloaded" message, even if there isn't a critical update failure. This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, PSS TSB 2061670 (also known as PSS 91), which addressed the same concern. The problem is not typically caused by a hardware fault but rather an internal software logic error.

Repair Procedure Summary

The resolution for the "Audi MMI software update" issue involves updating the MMI system software using a specific repair script. This procedure, outlined in TSB 91 21 66 2062264/1, is typically performed by an authorized Audi service technician.

Here's a summary of the steps involved:

1. Obtain Update File: A specialized update file, known as the "Audi A8 MIB3 SCON Repair Script," is downloaded from Audi's ServiceNet portal.
2. Prepare USB Flash Drive: The downloaded file is extracted onto a FAT32 formatted USB flash drive.
3. Vehicle Preparation: The vehicle's ignition is turned on, and the MMI system is allowed to fully boot up.
4. Initiate Update: The prepared USB flash drive is inserted into the vehicle's USB port. The update script is designed to start running automatically upon insertion.
5. Completion and Removal: Once the script has finished executing, the USB flash drive is safely removed from the USB port.
6. Bus Sleep Cycle: The vehicle is then turned off, and sufficient time is allowed for a bus sleep cycle to complete.
7. SCON Restart (If Needed): In some instances, the SCON (Rear MMI control panel) may require a manual restart. This is performed by pressing and holding the "Volume Down" button for at least 20 seconds.

Required Tools or Parts

The primary tool required for this service procedure is a USB flash drive. This drive must be formatted to FAT32 to ensure compatibility with the MMI system for the software update.

Warranty Information

This service is covered under Audi's warranty policies. For vehicles within 48 months or 50,000 miles, it falls under Claim Type 110. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, it is covered under Claim Type G10, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside these warranty parameters, the Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance, and costs may apply. The specific Service Number for this operation is 9196, with a Damage Code of 0039. The labor operation for updating the Information Electronics Control Module is identified as 9196 2599, with an allocated time of 20 Technical Units (TU).

What Owners Should Do

If your 2021 Audi displays the "software update could not be downloaded" message on the MMI wireless control head, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer. They have access to the specific repair script and the necessary tools to perform the software update as outlined in TSB 91 21 66 2062264/1. This will resolve the erroneous message and ensure your MIB3 system functions correctly.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10187351