2021 Audi A6/A7 Dashboard Parts Return Notice SM 10-2021

Audi has issued Special Notice SM 10-2021, a parts circular dated February 10, 2021, aimed at managing inventory and ensuring the quality of dashboard components. This notice specifically targets certain dashboard part numbers for return by dealers to the Parts Distribution Center (PDC). The goal is to ensure that only the most current and highest quality Audi A6 dashboard parts and those for other affected models are available for service and new vehicle production.

This proactive measure helps maintain the high standards of quality and performance expected from Audi vehicles. By returning older stock, Audi ensures that any potential issues related to earlier production batches are mitigated, benefiting both service operations and customer satisfaction.

Why This Matters for Quality Control

Special Notice SM 10-2021 is a critical step in Audi's quality assurance process. It ensures that any dashboard components that do not meet the latest development standards are removed from the supply chain. This prevents the installation of potentially outdated parts, which could lead to future issues or compromise vehicle functionality. For owners, this means that any service or repair involving Audi A6 dashboard parts or those for other affected models will utilize components that meet current specifications.

Affected Parts and Identification Criteria

Audi has identified a list of specific dashboard part numbers that dealers must return. These parts are identified by their production date and a visual indicator: a green dot. Parts with a production date prior to December 11, 2020 (11/12/2020), must be returned. However, parts with a green dot are considered to be at the latest state of development, regardless of their production date, and are therefore acceptable.

The specific part numbers subject to this return notice include:

• 4K1857001C KPS (Dashboard)
• 4K1857001C TNH
• 4K1857001C TAA
• 4K1857001D PBM
• 4K1857001E EHF
• 4K1857001B TAA
• 4K1857001E TNJ
• 4K1857001B QZV
• 4K1857001B KPS
• 4K1857001D PBN
• 4K1857001E PBN
• 4K1857001E PBM
• 4K1857001B TNH
• 4K1857001D EHF

Dealers are instructed to visually inspect parts for the green dot and check production dates to comply with the notice. This ensures that only the updated Audi A6 dashboard parts are retained.

Important Dealer Information and Return Process

Dealers were instructed to return all inventory of the listed material numbers to their facing PDC no later than March 3, 2021. The notice explicitly states: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This strict deadline underscores the importance of prompt action to manage inventory effectively.

To facilitate the return process, dealers are required to follow specific claims procedures:

1. File a separate "Claim with Return" using the item type "Dlr Sup. Req. Return" and include the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number in the dealer comments.
2. Review the Parts On Command system the following day for the Delivery List document.
3. Enter the 40000XXXXX delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Adhere the YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include one copy of the Delivery Document with the returned part(s).

Dealers are also advised to re-order required new materials using the same part number, as the updated parts will supersede the older stock.

NHTSA ID: 10186999

FAQs

Q1: What is the purpose of Audi Special Notice SM 10-2021?

A1: Audi Special Notice SM 10-2021 is a parts circular issued to dealers to manage inventory and ensure that only the latest, quality-approved dashboard components are used. It directs the return of specific dashboard part numbers that do not meet current development standards.

Q2: How can I tell if an Audi dashboard part is affected by this notice?

A2: Affected parts are identified by their production date and the absence of a green dot. Parts with a production date prior to December 11, 2020 (11/12/2020), must be returned unless they feature a green dot, which indicates they are at the latest state of development.

Q3: Does this notice affect my 2021 Audi A6, A7, RS 6 Avant, S6, or RS 7 vehicle directly?

A3: While this notice primarily concerns dealer inventory management, it indirectly benefits owners by ensuring that any service or repair involving dashboard components will use parts that meet Audi's updated quality standards. It helps prevent the installation of older, potentially non-compliant parts in your vehicle.