2021 Audi e-tron SOS Malfunction Warning TSB

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles, such as the 2021 Audi e-tron, may observe an "SOS malfunction warning is displayed in the instrument cluster." This warning indicates a potential Audi e-tron SOS malfunction related to the vehicle's emergency call system, which relies on the telematics control module.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing the "SOS malfunction warning," technicians may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the telematics control module, J949 (address word 0075):

These codes indicate that the control module itself is reporting a fault, specifically a "Ctrl. Module Faulty" status.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) explains that these DTCs, B200096 or B200000, can be stored erroneously in the telematics control module (J949) when the vehicle is initially removed from transport mode. This suggests the fault may not be due to a hardware failure but rather a software or initialization glitch during the vehicle's preparation for customer delivery. The presence of an "SOS malfunction warning" on the instrument cluster is the primary indicator to the driver that an Audi e-tron SOS malfunction has occurred.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the "SOS malfunction warning" and associated DTCs involves a specific diagnostic and repair sequence using the ODIS diagnostic system. The procedure aims to clear the fault without immediately replacing the telematics control module, J949.

1. Software Update: Ensure the diagnostic system is running the most current ODIS version, specifically at least 5.2.6 with GFF 2.20.1. This ensures access to the latest diagnostic routines and test plans.
2. Diagnostic Test Plan: Run the Guided Fault Finding (GFF) function within ODIS. This will initiate a parts replacement test plan specifically for the telematics control module, J949 (address word 0075).
3. DTC Clearing Attempt: Crucially, follow the steps of the replacement test plan without physically replacing the telematics control module. This test plan is designed to attempt to clear the stored DTCs (B200096 or B200000) and resolve the "SOS malfunction warning" through software commands.
4. Module Replacement (If Necessary): Only if the previous procedure fails to clear the fault, and the "SOS malfunction warning" persists, should the telematics control module, J949, be replaced.

This methodical approach ensures that unnecessary part replacements are avoided, saving time and resources.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Owners should be aware that if their vehicle is experiencing an "SOS malfunction warning" and requires service, the initial diagnostic steps should focus on clearing the DTCs without immediate part replacement. The TSB explicitly states that "Claims for replaced parts will not be reimbursed if the replacement test plan (step 3) was not attempted before replacement." This means dealers are expected to follow the prescribed diagnostic steps, attempting to clear the fault via software before considering a new telematics control module. This protects owners from potentially being charged for a part that may not be necessary.

Required Tools or Parts

For this repair, technicians will primarily rely on the ODIS diagnostic system with the specified software version. If a physical replacement of the telematics control module (J949) becomes necessary, the following parts may be required:

• Telematics Control Module: Quantity 01 (Part number to be sourced via ETKA).
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the Repair Manual (to be sourced via ETKA/ELSA).

Always consult ETKA and the latest parts bulletins for the most up-to-date part numbers and availability.

Owner Action

If your 2021 Audi e-tron is displaying an "SOS malfunction warning is displayed in the instrument cluster" or if you suspect it may have DTC B200096 or B200000 stored, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them about the specific warning message and mention Technical Service Bulletin 2059528/3. The repair for this Audi e-tron SOS malfunction is typically covered under warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, and for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles under the G10 program, provided the vehicle is within the warranty period. If your vehicle is outside of warranty, this bulletin serves as informational guidance.

NHTSA ID: 10199216