2020-2021 Audi Q5, SQ5 Rear Bumper Paint Peeling TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2064279/1 to address concerns regarding paint peeling from the rear bumper cover on 2020-2021 Audi Q5 and SQ5 models. This issue, described as "Audi Q5 paint peeling," is a direct result of a manufacturing inconsistency.

The TSB, issued on August 25, 2021, provides detailed information for technicians on how to diagnose and repair this specific paint defect. It clarifies that the problem originates from a weakness in the painted surfaces at the edges of the rear bumper cover where it meets the rear side panel.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2020-2021 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may notice the paint on the rear bumper cover is peeling. This paint peel typically appears on the right side, left side, or both sides of the bumper cover. It specifically occurs where the bumper cover meets the rear side panel.

The peeling can manifest in various stages, from early, subtle signs of adhesion loss to more advanced and severe paint peel. Technicians are advised to inspect these areas thoroughly to identify the condition.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Diagnosis involves a visual inspection of the rear bumper cover for any signs of paint peeling or adhesion loss. The TSB highlights that the issue stems from a production process inconsistency at the edges of the rear bumper cover. This inconsistency makes the painted surfaces in these areas prone to peeling over time.

Technicians will check for the condition in its early stages, which may be hard to notice, as well as intermediate and advanced stages of paint loss. The diagnostic process may also involve checking and clearing fault codes, identified by service operation 0150 0000, though no specific DTCs are listed for this particular paint issue.

Important Warnings

Audi explicitly states that if the "Audi Q5 paint peeling" condition occurs, the rear bumper cover must be replaced. Technicians are instructed not to attempt to refinish the original bumper cover. Refinishing the original bumper cover will only reintroduce a subsequent paint peel in these areas due to the technical nature of the root cause.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the rear bumper cover paint peeling involves replacing the entire rear bumper cover. This is due to the underlying production inconsistency that affects the paint's adhesion. The process includes several labor operations.

First, technicians may need to adjust the lane change assist ECM, identified by labor operation 9635 1550, if the vehicle is equipped with this feature. The primary sublet operation is to replace and paint the new bumper part. This involves specific paint codes: L0011600 for solid paint, L0021600 for metallic paint, and L0031600 for pearl paint.

After the replacement and painting, a road test is required. This post-service road test is associated with labor operation 0121 0004, with a time allowance of 10 TU (Technical Units).

Required Parts and Tools

To perform the repair for the "Audi Q5 paint peeling" issue, specific parts are required. Technicians must consult ETKA (Electronic Parts Catalog) using the vehicle's VIN for the correct rear bumper cover. Additionally, fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws, as needed per the Repair Manual, should be sourced via ETKA/ELSA.

Rear wheel arch covers (01 Right, 01 Left) may also need to be replaced, and their part numbers should be referenced in ETKA using the VIN. Paint is listed as a material in Outside Material, with a quantity of one each and a maximum cost of $200.

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this rear bumper paint peeling issue are categorized under specific claim types. For paint defects identified before vehicle delivery, claim type 950 is used. For paint defects discovered after delivery, claim type 150 applies. The Service Number for this TSB is 6369, and the Damage Code is 0067.

Audi notes that if the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty, as per TSB #2064279/1.

Source: NHTSA ID 10200713