2021-2022 Audi A4/A5/S4/S5 Suspension DTC B200FF0

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 43 21 56 2051336/5 to address a suspension control module malfunction that can affect specific 2021-2022 Audi A4, A5, S4, and S5 models equipped with electronic damper control. This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 43 number 21-47, dated June 4, 2021. The primary concern is an illuminated damper control warning lamp in the instrument cluster, often accompanied by a specific diagnostic trouble code.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe a warning lamp for the damper control illuminated in the instrument cluster. This visual alert indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's suspension system. If you see this warning, it's important to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified technician.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When this issue occurs, technicians performing a diagnostic scan will typically find the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) stored in either the drivetrain control module (J775, address word 0074) or the electronic damping control module (J250, address word 0014):

• DTC B200FF0: Internal malfunction

This DTC B200FF0 specifically points to an internal malfunction within the suspension control system.

Important Warnings

Audi explicitly states a critical piece of information for this particular issue:

• "Parts replacement does not solve this issue. Claims for replaced parts will be subject to review."

This means that attempting to replace suspension components or control modules will not resolve the underlying problem and could lead to unnecessary costs and denied warranty claims. The TSB outlines a software-based solution rather than a hardware replacement.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic process for the Audi A5 DTC B200FF0 and related models involves identifying the presence of DTC B200FF0. Technicians should connect to the vehicle's diagnostic system and check the drivetrain control module (J775) or the electronic damping control module (J250) for this specific fault code. The TSB also notes that the DTC does not affect the handling characteristics of the vehicle.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the suspension control module malfunction, as detailed in TSB 43 21 56 2051336/5, focuses on reprogramming and recalibration rather than component replacement. The procedure is as follows:

1. Delete the DTC: The technician will clear the stored DTC B200FF0 from the relevant control module.
2. Perform Suspension Basic Settings: After clearing the fault code, the vehicle's suspension system requires basic settings to be performed. This recalibrates the electronic damper control system.
3. Perform GFF: A Guided Fault Finding (GFF) session must be performed to ensure that no other DTCs are present in any control module. This comprehensive check helps confirm that the primary issue is resolved and no new faults have arisen.
4. Additional Basic Settings: If the GFF system requests any additional basic settings based on the vehicle's specific equipment, these must also be completed.

This process ensures that the suspension control module is correctly configured and operating without internal malfunctions.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin provides specific guidelines for warranty claims related to the Audi A5 DTC B200FF0 issue.

• Claim Type: Warranty claims are generally covered for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the G10 claim type applies, requiring owner verification.
• Out-of-Warranty Vehicles: If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this TSB serves as informational guidance only.
• Service Number: 4316
• Damage Code: 0040
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (0150 0000), with the time stated on the diagnostic protocol (maximum 90 Technical Units).
• Road Test: No allowance is provided for road tests before or after the service procedure (0 TU).
• Claim Comment: Claims must be submitted as per TSB #2051336/5 and in accordance with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. All claims are subject to review and audit by Audi Warranty.

Owners should be aware that claims for replaced parts will be reviewed, reinforcing that component replacement is not the intended solution for this specific malfunction.

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NHTSA ID: 10201496