2023-2026 Audi Headlight Foreign Object TSB

Symptoms of Headlight Contamination

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe various issues related to their exterior lighting. These symptoms primarily involve the presence of foreign material in or around the headlight assembly, leading to visual obstructions or reduced light output. The Audi e-tron headlight foreign object issue can manifest as:

• Contamination and Dirt: The most common complaint is dirt or contamination visible on the headlamps, headlamp lenses, or headlamp clear-glass lenses.
• Functionality Glare: Drivers might experience glare from the low beams or highway lights, potentially affecting visibility.
• Foreign Objects Present: Visible foreign objects, such as car wash bristles, trapped between the headlight and the front fender.
• Damaged Components: In some cases, the presence of these foreign objects could lead to minor damage to the headlamps.

Technical Background and Cause

Audi has identified that the presence of foreign objects in the headlight area is a normal occurrence under certain conditions. The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2031473/6 clarifies that due to the specific design of the vehicle and the narrow gap widths between the headlight(s) and the adjacent body panels (like the fender or wing), foreign objects can easily become lodged in this area, especially after using a car wash. This design characteristic makes the Audi e-tron headlight foreign object issue a known, albeit undesirable, phenomenon.

Diagnosis and Identification

Diagnosing this issue is straightforward, as it typically involves a visual inspection. Technicians and owners can easily identify the problem by observing foreign material, such as bristles from a car wash, stuck between the headlight assembly and the front fender. The TSB includes an illustrative image (Figure 1 in the original document) showing car wash bristles trapped in this specific location.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi e-tron headlight foreign object issue is a simple process. The recommended service procedure is to remove the foreign object from the headlight area. No further repairs or component replacements are typically required. The TSB explicitly states that there is no applicable "Production Solution" for this condition, reinforcing that the issue stems from the vehicle's design and external factors.

Important Owner Information

Owners should be aware of several key points regarding this issue:

• Warranty Coverage: This type of damage, caused by outside influence, is not covered by any Audi Warranty. Owners will be responsible for any costs associated with the removal of foreign objects.
• Prevention: If the issue of foreign objects getting trapped in the headlight area occurs repeatedly, Audi advises considering the use of a different car wash facility or method to prevent recurrence.
• No Further Repairs: Once the foreign object is removed, no additional repairs are necessary, as the condition is not indicative of a manufacturing defect.

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was released for publishing on April 15, 2025, and has undergone several revisions. Revision 6 updated models, title, condition, technical background, service, and additional information. Previous revisions, such as Revision 5 (dated September 10, 2024) added Model Year 2025, and Revision 4 (dated May 9, 2023) added additional models and model years.

Owner Action

If you notice foreign objects, such as car wash bristles, trapped in your Audi's headlight area, you should:

1. Visually Inspect: Confirm the presence of the foreign object.
2. Attempt Removal: Carefully remove the object if it is accessible and can be done without causing damage.
3. Consult a Technician: If you are unable to remove the object safely or if you suspect any damage, visit an authorized Audi service center. Be aware that this service may not be covered under warranty.
4. Consider Car Wash Alternatives: If the problem recurs frequently, explore using a different type of car wash or hand-washing your vehicle to avoid future occurrences of the Audi e-tron headlight foreign object problem.

Source: NHTSA ID 11017649