2022-2024 Audi A3 S3 RS 3 Broken Instrument Panel Vent Louver

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 85 23 26 2071007/1 to address instances of a broken louver on the instrument panel vent in 2022-2024 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 models. This bulletin provides guidance for technicians and clarifies warranty coverage for this specific issue. Owners experiencing an Audi S3 broken louver should be aware of the information contained within this TSB.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 vehicles may report experiencing difficulty adjusting the instrument panel vent air outlet. This symptom indicates a potential problem with the vent's internal components.

During workshop inspection, technicians typically confirm the customer's claim. The root cause is often identified as a damaged instrument panel vent air outlet louver pivot, which prevents proper adjustment.

Technical Background

Extensive analysis of damaged parts revealed a fracture pattern consistent with the application of excessive force. This force causes the louver pivot to shear off from the air outlet assembly.

Audi's investigation indicates that this excessive force is typically exerted due to external factors. These can include the installation of accessory components attached to the air outlet, an external strike to the louver, or an attempt to adjust the louver beyond its normal range of motion. The forces involved in these scenarios exceed what is necessary for normal use of the vent.

Figure 1 in the TSB illustrates an instrument panel vent with a damaged louver, while Figure 2 shows a fractured and sheared louver pivot resulting from force outside of normal use.

Important Warnings

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 85 23 26 2071007/1 explicitly states that replacement of the instrument panel vent air outlet under warranty is not permitted if the failure matches the described profile. This is because the damage is attributed to outside influence that exceeds normal use.

Therefore, this type of damage is not covered by any Audi Warranty. Owners should be aware that repairs for an Audi S3 broken louver, or similar damage on other affected models, will likely be out-of-pocket expenses.

Repair Procedure Summary

While the TSB does not detail specific repair steps, it implies that the resolution for a damaged instrument panel vent louver involves replacing the affected instrument panel vent air outlet. Technicians are advised to consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information on parts.

Additionally, the Repair Manual should be checked for specific instructions regarding fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that may require replacement during the repair process.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing difficulty adjusting your instrument panel vent air outlet or suspect you have an Audi S3 broken louver, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi dealership. Be prepared to discuss the nature of the damage with your service advisor.

Given the information in TSB 85 23 26 2071007/1, it is important to understand that this type of damage is generally considered to be caused by external factors and is not covered under warranty. You should anticipate potential costs associated with the inspection and repair.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10239689