2021-2023 Audi Q8 Unjustified ABS/ESC Intervention TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2068290/1 to address instances of "Unjustified ABS/ESC intervention during curves" in certain 2021-2023 Audi Q8 vehicles. This TSB outlines a software update designed to recalibrate the ABS/ESC system, preventing unnecessary activation during specific driving conditions.

Symptoms of Unjustified ABS/ESC Intervention

Owners of affected 2021-2023 Audi Q8 models may notice the ABS/ESC system activating unexpectedly. The primary symptom is "ABS/ESC intervention happens when driving around a corner at low speeds (for example highway exits)." This can be accompanied by noise and vibration as the ABS pump activates.

No Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Unlike many vehicle issues, this particular problem does not typically store any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Workshop findings indicate that "No DTCs are stored in the ABS/ESC control module, J104 (address word 0003)." This means a technician cannot diagnose the issue by simply scanning for fault codes, and the problem may be difficult to reproduce during a test drive.

Understanding the Cause

The technical background explains that the ABS/ESC regulation on the Audi Q8 is configured for a sensitive response. This sensitivity can lead to the systems intervening in situations where ABS pump activation occurs, even when not strictly necessary. Vehicles equipped with air suspension, rear steering, summer tires, and wheels larger than 20 inches may be more prone to experiencing this "Audi Q8 ABS ESC intervention."

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi emphasizes that "this situation does not affect the safety of the vehicle." While the intervention might be unexpected and cause noise or vibration, it does not compromise the vehicle's safety. Additionally, the bulletin states: "This bulletin can only be applied to MY 20/21/22 vehicles equipped with 3.0 TFSI engines." However, the provided software update table also includes Model Year 2023 vehicles, which aligns with the 2021-2023 range for the Audi Q8 ABS ESC intervention.

Repair Procedure: Software Update

The resolution for this issue involves updating the software of the ABS/ESC control module, identified as J104 (address word 0003). The repair process follows Audi's standard Software Version Management (SVM) procedures. Technicians must refer to TSB 2011732, titled "00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions," for detailed guidance on performing SVM updates.

Key steps for the software update include:

• Following all instructions outlined in TSB 2011732.
• Updating the ABS/ESC J104 control module using the specific SVM action code.
• Ensuring that the parking brake is not activated before initiating the SVM update.
• After the update, verifying that the parking brake is functioning correctly by activating and deactivating it.

Required Software and SVM Code

The software update applies to specific part numbers for the ABS/ESC control module. The SVM action code required to perform this update is 03A034.

Warranty Information

This software update is covered under warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, claim type G10 applies. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, the bulletin serves as informational guidance. The service number for this procedure is 4530, with a damage code of 0040. Diagnostic time is GFF 0150 0000, and a road test after the service procedure accounts for 0121 0004 (10 TU).

Source: NHTSA ID 10226251