2021 Audi Q8 SOS Malfunction TSB 2061625/4

Owners of certain 2020-2021 Audi models, including the 2021 Audi Q8, may encounter an "SOS – Emergency call malfunction" message in their instrument cluster. This warning is often accompanied by specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the emergency call system. Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2061625/4 to address this condition, indicating that it is typically caused by an erroneous software malfunction rather than a hardware failure.

Symptoms

If you own a 2020-2021 Audi model, you might observe the following symptom:

• The message "SOS – Emergency call malfunction, please contact service" is displayed in the instrument cluster.

This warning indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's emergency call system, although the system's core functionality may still be active.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing the "SOS – Emergency call malfunction" warning, technicians may find the following diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the emergency call control module and communication unit (J949, address word 0075):

Code	Description	Module
B129B11	microphone 1, short circuit to ground	emergency call module and communication unit, J949
B239C11	microphone 2, short circuit to ground	emergency call module and communication unit, J949

These codes specifically point to issues with the microphone circuits within the emergency call system.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The presence of DTCs B129B11 and B239C11, along with the "SOS – Emergency call malfunction" message, suggests an erroneous software condition. The technical background for TSB 2061625/4 states that a software malfunction can cause these DTCs to be stored incorrectly, leading to the warning message.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of the following critical information regarding this issue:

• No immediate repair is needed: For 2021 model year vehicles, Audi advises that no repairs are necessary at this time. Replacing components will not resolve the underlying software issue.
• e-Call functionality remains active: Despite the warning message, the e-Call functionality (emergency call system) in your vehicle remains active.
• Solution forthcoming: A permanent software solution is currently under development and is expected to be released in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2061625/4 outlines different service instructions based on the model year:

For 2020 Model Year A4/A5 Vehicles

For these specific models, technicians are instructed to perform TSB 2067021 - 91 MIB3, which addresses various malfunctions including those related to the garage opener, SXM, online radio, and DTCs B129B11, B129C2, or B200000.

For 2021 Model Year Vehicles (including the Audi Q8 SOS malfunction)

For 2021 models, the procedure is as follows:

1. Clear the DTCs: Technicians should clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes.
2. Inform the customer: Explain to the customer that a solution is anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2022. Emphasize that no repairs or component replacements are necessary for this condition, as they will not resolve the concern.
3. Create a PSS record: A Pending Service Solutions (PSS) record must be created through the PSS application in AccessAudi or the Technical Assistance page in Elsa.

This approach ensures that owners are informed about the forthcoming solution and prevents unnecessary part replacements.

Warranty Information

This condition is covered under warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, coverage is under the G10 program, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

NHTSA ID: 10222109