2021-2022 Audi MIB3 Steering Wheel Star Button Issue

Symptoms of the Audi MIB3 Star Button Issue

Owners of various 2021-2022 Audi models may experience an issue where the multi-function steering wheel's star button loses its programmed function. This typically occurs after the vehicle has undergone a bus sleep cycle. For example, if the star button was programmed for functions like "Camera view: Front corner", "Camera view: Front tires", or "Traffic sign display", these settings will be lost.

When the star button is pressed after this occurs, instead of activating the desired function, the selection menu for assigning the button appears again on the MMI (Multi Media Interface). This indicates that the programmed function has deleted itself. The complaint regarding the Audi MIB3 star button behavior is reproducible.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that this problem stems from a software issue within control unit 1 for information electronics (005F). This control unit is part of the MIB3 infotainment system, which manages various vehicle functions, including the customizable buttons on the steering wheel. The software glitch causes the programmed settings for the Audi MIB3 star button to not persist through the vehicle's sleep cycles.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 91 25 06 2073134/2, which supersedes TSB Group 91 number 24-76, provides crucial information for owners and service technicians:

• Do not replace any components for this condition since this will not resolve the customer's concern. Attempting to replace parts will not fix the underlying software issue.
• Replacing parts or attempting repairs will not fix the problem. Unjustified work/replacement parts will be charged back. This means owners could be charged for unnecessary repairs if this warning is not heeded.
• This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty. While Audi acknowledges the issue, this specific bulletin does not authorize warranty claims for parts replacement related to this condition.
• Audi advises that a solution is being worked on, and no repairs are necessary at this point to address the Audi MIB3 star button issue. For further information regarding the timeline for a definitive fix, owners and technicians should refer to TSB 2076404.

What Audi is Doing

Audi has implemented a production solution for this issue, starting with vehicles manufactured in Calendar week 25/2023. This indicates that newer vehicles coming off the production line should no longer exhibit this specific software glitch.

For vehicles already on the road, Audi instructs technicians to create a PSS (Pending Service Solutions) record. This is done through the PSS application accessible via the Pending Service Solutions link in AccessAudi, under the Related Links >> Service section. This process helps Audi track the prevalence of the issue and manage the rollout of future solutions.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2021-2022 Audi model and are experiencing the multi-function steering wheel star button losing its programmed function, it is important to understand that a repair is not currently available. Do not attempt to replace any parts, as this will not resolve the software issue and may result in charges.

We recommend contacting your authorized Audi dealership to report the symptom. You can reference Technical Service Bulletin 91 25 06 2073134/2 (or TSB 2073134) to ensure they are aware of the known issue. While no immediate repair is offered, reporting the problem helps Audi track affected vehicles and ensures you are informed when a permanent software update becomes available.

Source: NHTSA ID 11013730