2021-2023 Audi e-tron Rear Camera Washer System Issue

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2023 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback vehicles may notice that when they attempt to use the washer system for the rearview camera, the pressure is insufficient to effectively clean the camera lens. This can lead to a dirty camera, reduced visibility, and potentially compromise safety when backing up or using parking assistance features. Workshop findings confirm that the system pressure generated by the mono pump is simply not high enough to perform the cleaning function adequately.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Before proceeding with a repair, technicians should first rule out other common causes of low washer system pressure. These include a low washer fluid level, a clogged filter on the pump, low system voltage, obvious kinks in the visible washer lines, or plugged nozzles. If these external factors are not the cause, the issue points to the internal components of the washer system.

The core problem identified in Technical Service Bulletin 2073568/3 is that the original mono pump in affected vehicles does not generate sufficient pressure and lacks a non-return valve. This design limitation prevents the washer fluid from being delivered with enough force to clear debris from the rearview camera lens.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the insufficient pressure in the Audi e-tron rear camera washer system, the repair involves upgrading the existing mono pump to a more robust dual pump version. The high-level steps for this procedure include:

1. Pump Replacement: The original mono pump is removed and replaced with a new dual pump. This dual pump design provides increased pressure for more effective cleaning.
2. Filler Plug Installation: A filler plug must be installed onto the black outlet of the new dual pump. This ensures proper sealing and fluid flow within the system.
3. Hose Connection: The washer hose is then attached to the white outlet of the dual pump. This outlet is specifically designed with a non-return valve to prevent fluid from flowing backward, maintaining consistent pressure.
4. Wiring Harness Modification: The polarity of the pump connector must be reversed. This is achieved by swapping the positive and negative pins within the connector to ensure the new dual pump operates correctly.

This upgrade ensures that the Audi e-tron rear camera washer system can effectively clean the rearview camera, restoring clear visibility for the driver.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, specific parts are required:

• Dual pump: Part number 1K6 955 651
• Plug: Part number 3V0 955 235 A
• Fasteners: As needed, according to the Electronic Parts Catalog (ETKA) and Repair Manual.

Important Information for Owners

Audi of America, Inc. issued this Technical Service Bulletin 2073568/3 to address the performance of the Audi e-tron rear camera washer system. If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this bulletin is considered informational only, meaning that repair costs may not be covered. Owners should contact an authorized Audi dealership to discuss the issue and determine warranty eligibility.

The associated warranty claim details are:

• Service Number: 9294
• Damage Code: 0011
• Labor Operations:
  • Remove and install pump for rear window wiper system: 9289 1900 (refer to Standard Repair Time for associated operations)
  • Modify wiring harness: 9709 4999 (10 Technical Units)
  • GFF: No allowance (0 Technical Units)

Source: NHTSA ID: 11012526