2025-2026 Audi A5 Roof Module Parts Return (SM 38-2025)

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 38-2025, a Parts Circular, to its dealerships regarding the return of certain roof module parts. This notice is crucial for maintaining inventory quality and ensuring that customers receive the correct components for their vehicles. The primary focus of this communication is on specific roof module part numbers and their generation levels, particularly for the 2025-2026 Audi A5.

This Special Notice SM 38-2025 aims to streamline the inventory of roof module parts, ensuring that only the latest and correct generation of parts is available for service and repair. This proactive measure helps prevent potential issues that could arise from the installation of older, superseded components, thereby upholding vehicle performance and customer satisfaction. Owners of affected models should be aware of this initiative, even though it primarily targets dealer inventory management.

What's Being Addressed

The Special Notice SM 38-2025 specifically targets roof module parts identified by the number 85E-947-135-BG-6PS. The key criterion for these parts is their generation level. Audi specifies that "Only parts from generation 19S are good." Any roof modules with prior generation levels must be returned to the Parts Distribution Center (PDC). An example of an acceptable part shows a 'G-Stand' (generation status) of "19S" and a variant number of "85E.947.135.BD". This ensures that only the most current and compatible roof modules are used in Audi vehicles.

Why This Special Notice Matters

This type of parts circular is vital for quality control within the Audi service network. By ensuring that only the latest generation of the 85E-947-135-BG-6PS roof module is in circulation, Audi aims to prevent the installation of potentially outdated or incorrect parts. This directly impacts the reliability and functionality of various vehicle systems that rely on the roof module, ultimately contributing to a better ownership experience for the 2025-2026 Audi A5.

Important Warnings and Deadlines

Audi has set a strict deadline for the return of these roof module parts. Dealerships must return their inventory of the specified material numbers to their facing PDC "no later than 8/14/2025." It is explicitly stated that "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This warning underscores the importance of timely compliance for dealerships to receive credit for the returned parts. Owners should be aware that this process ensures their Audi A5 roof module return is managed efficiently at the dealer level.

Dealer Instructions for Parts Return

To facilitate a smooth return process for the roof module parts, Audi has provided specific instructions for dealerships. These steps ensure proper documentation and handling of the returned inventory:

1. Claim Filing: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" by selecting "Dir Sup. Req. Return" under the item type. This claim should include the Special Notice Number SM 38-2025 and the Parts Circular number in the dealer comments.
2. Delivery List Review: Dealerships are instructed to review "Parts On Command" the day after for the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays should be immediately communicated to their facing PDC.
3. Document Number Entry: The 40000XXXXX delivery document number must be entered on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Label Adherence: The YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label needs to be securely adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Document Inclusion: A copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s) inside the package.

Dealerships are also advised to re-order any required new materials using the same part number, ensuring they receive the correct generation 19S parts for any future service needs related to the Audi A5 roof module return.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11021436