2022-2023 Audi Wireless Charging Doesn't Work TSB

Owners of 2022-2023 Audi models equipped with the Audi Phone Box wireless charging system may experience issues where their mobile device fails to charge wirelessly. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 23 79 2064681/2, superseding previous bulletin 91 21-38, outlines the conditions and diagnostic steps for when your Audi wireless charging doesn't work.

Symptoms

If your Audi wireless charging doesn't work, you might observe one of the following situations:

• Your phone becomes very hot during charging, leading to the charging process being canceled or the phone entering thermal protection mode.
• Your phone is not charging, and the MMI display shows the message: "The device cannot be charged as there is another object in the charging cradle."
• The phone simply does not begin charging after it has been placed in the charging cradle.

These issues can occur even if your mobile device supports wireless charging or uses a compatible charging cover.

Technical Background

The wireless charging system in your Audi Phone Box operates under the technical limitations of the industry-standard Qi wireless charging. The charging cradle uses three integrated charging coils, but only one is active at any given time. Misalignment of your device with the active coil can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy loss, and increased heat generation, especially with smaller devices.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To diagnose why your Audi wireless charging doesn't work, technicians are advised to check several factors:

• MMI Settings: Verify that wireless charging is activated in the MMI system, as detailed in your vehicle's owner's manual.
• Cradle Obstructions: Ensure there are no foreign objects in the charging cradle other than the mobile phone itself.
• Phone Case/Cover: If your phone has a case or back cover, test if the phone charges successfully when placed in the cradle without it.
• Device Positioning: The phone's position significantly impacts charging. Always ensure the phone is centered in the charging cradle during tests.
• Battery Level: A low battery level can cause the device to become very hot during wireless charging. Test if the issue persists when the phone's battery level is above 80%.
• App Usage: Intensive app use, including CarPlay or AndroidAuto, can also cause the device to overheat. Check if the problem occurs when all apps are closed and stopped.
• Charging Delay: Be aware that it can take up to 60 seconds for wireless charging to initiate.
• Alternative Device: Test the charger with a different phone to rule out device-specific issues.

If these checks do not resolve the concern, technicians will proceed with Guided Fault Finding procedures.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of specific conditions that are considered normal behavior and do not indicate a fault with the vehicle's charging system:

• Intensive Use: If you frequently use demanding applications or features while charging, it is recommended to use a USB connection instead to prevent overheating and ensure consistent charging.
• Apple iPhone Compatibility: For Apple iPhone generations 12, 13, and 14, the MagSafe charging technology is not fully compatible with the vehicle's Qi standard system. This incompatibility can lead to higher power losses, increased heat generation, temporary phone functionality restrictions, and the phone entering thermal protection mode. Do not replace parts as that will not resolve the customer complaint. This behavior is attributed to the phone's technology, not a defect in the Audi Phone Box.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing issues where your Audi wireless charging doesn't work, first try the diagnostic steps outlined above, such as checking for obstructions, removing your phone case, ensuring proper alignment, and testing with a different phone or higher battery level. If the problem persists, especially after considering the specific warnings for Apple iPhones, it is advisable to contact your authorized Audi service center for further diagnosis. This TSB is informational and does not apply to any Audi warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID 10233700