2019-2021 Audi Starter-Alternator Emissions Service Action 27BQ

What is the Audi 27BQ Emissions Service Action?

Audi has initiated Emissions Service Action 27BQ to address an issue with the Audi starter alternator in certain 2019-2021 Audi vehicles, including the A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6, RS7, RSQ8, S6, S7, and S8 models. This service action ensures that affected vehicles continue to meet and exceed emissions standards, even if a defective starter-alternator is present.

Under this campaign, authorized Audi dealers will replace the starter-alternator at no cost to vehicle owners. The repair is designed to restore proper vehicle function and maintain environmental compliance. This action applies to vehicles in both the USA and Canada.

Why This Matters: Emissions and Start/Stop Functionality

A defective starter-alternator may inhibit start/stop functionality in your vehicle. This can lead to an increase in CO2 and other emissions when the vehicle is stopped, although emissions still remain within certification standards. The proper operation of the start/stop system is crucial for reducing environmental impact and maintaining the vehicle's designed efficiency.

This service action ensures that your 2019-2021 Audi, with a potentially affected Audi starter alternator, operates as intended. Addressing this component proactively helps maintain the vehicle's efficiency and environmental performance.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The primary symptom of a defective starter-alternator is the inhibition of the vehicle's start/stop functionality. Owners might notice that the engine does not automatically shut off when the vehicle comes to a stop, or does not restart seamlessly. There are no specific fault codes (DTCs) mentioned in this bulletin related to a defective starter-alternator, but the issue is identified through a software version check.

For diagnosis, technicians will scan the vehicle using Guided Functions (GFF) via the Diagnostic Tester. They will select DA 00CC and check the starter/generator software level. If the software level is less than 0562, the starter-alternator will require replacement. If the software level is 0562 or greater, replacement is not necessary.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Owners should be aware of several key points regarding Emissions Service Action 27BQ:

• Owner Notification: Owner notification for the first wave of affected vehicles occurred in May 2024. The second wave of owners will be mailed in August 2024.
• California Requirements: For California owners, regulations require that this campaign be completed prior to vehicle registration renewal. Upon completion, you must be provided with a signed “Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction” certificate (RC EMISCAVWAU) by the dealer. This certificate should be retained for your records and should NOT be mailed to the California DMV unless requested.
• Dealer Inventory: Dealers must ensure that every affected inventory vehicle has this campaign completed before delivery to consumers.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Diagnosis and repair of pre-existing conditions in the vehicle are not covered under this action.
• DIY Repairs: The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians and not intended to be attempted by "do-it-yourselfers."
• Temperature Acclimation: When working during extreme temperatures, it is recommended that the vehicle be allowed to acclimate inside the shop to avoid temperature-related component damage or breakage.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for Emissions Service Action 27BQ involves checking the starter/generator software version and, if necessary, replacing the Audi starter alternator. The general procedure is as follows:

1. Check for Previous Repair: Technicians will enter the vehicle's VIN into the Elsa system and check the "Campaign/Action" screen. If a Campaign Completion label is present, no further work is required. The campaign status must show "open."
2. Software Version Check: The vehicle is scanned using Guided Functions (GFF). The software level of the starter/generator (DA 00CC) is checked. If the software level is less than 0562 (for example, 0523 as shown in the document), the starter-alternator requires replacement. If it is 0562 or greater, replacement is not needed.
3. Starter/Generator Replacement (if needed): If replacement is required, the technician will follow the ELSA repair manual instructions for "Repair manual > Electrical System > Electrical Equipment > 27 Battery, Starter, Generator, Cruise Control > Generator > Generator, Removing and Installing." The starter/generator is a heavy component and must be supported during removal. Notably, the original studs (part number N-910-718-01) will not be reused and will be replaced with new bolts.
4. Post-Replacement Steps: After replacement, the technician performs the starter/generator replacement test plan via "DA 00CC > Guided functions > Replace control module" and follows all on-screen prompts.
5. Documentation: Upon completion, the technician will stamp the repair order and install a Campaign Completion Label (part number CAMP 010 000) next to the vehicle emission control information label. This label should not cover any existing labels.

Approximately 3 liters of coolant will be needed for the repair.

Required Tools and Parts

Specialized tools and parts are required for this service action:

Required Tools

• Battery Tester/Charger (capable of minimum 90 Amp continuous supply)
• Diagnostic Tester (-VAS6150X/6160X- or equivalent)
• Cooling System Tester - Adapter (-VAG1274/8- and -VAG1274/10-)
• Cooling System Charge Kit (-VAS6096- or equivalent)
• Hose Clip Pliers (-VAS6362- and -VAS6340- or equivalent)
• Belt Tensioner Locking Tool (-T40098- or equivalent)
• Socket - SW5 12 Points (-VAS262023- or equivalent)
• Torx Socket – T60 (-T40087- or equivalent)
• Safety Gloves and Safety Goggles

Key Replacement Parts (if needed)

• Alternator (Starter/Generator): Part numbers vary by model criteria (e.g., 4N0-903-028-S for SC or 24; 4N1-903-028 for C8, A8, 4M, S8, 21, 22, 23 or 25; 4N1-903-028-B for RQ, RS, 26 or 27).
• Gaskets: 06M-121-488-A, 06M-133-237-A
• Seal Rings: 4M0-145-117, N-910-191-01, N-900-970-01, WHT-008-729-A
• Bolts: N-910-718-01 (for stud replacement), N-910-968-01 (for belt tensioner bracket)
• Coolant: G12 EVO Coolant - Concentrate (G-12E-100-1G CON for US, G-12E-100-2G CON for Canada) or G12 EVO Coolant - 50/50 Pre-mix (G-12E-050-1G-RTU for US, G-12E-050-2G-RTU for Canada).

Warranty and Claiming Information

This service action is covered under warranty. Here are the details for claiming:

• Service Number: 27BQ
• Damage Code: 0099
• Parts Vendor Code: 002
• Claim Type: Sold vehicle: 710; Unsold vehicle: 790
• Causal Indicator: Mark labor as causal if Alternator (starter/generator) is OK. Mark Alternator* as causal if Alternator (starter/generator) is NOT OK.
• Vehicle Wash/Loaner: Dealers should not claim wash/loaner under this action.
• Labor Operations:
  • 0150 00 10: GFF/Guided functions (setup + battery charger) - Time Units: SEE ELSA
  • 0150 00 60: GFF/Guided functions - Time Units: Time stated on diagnostic protocol
  • 2726 19 43: Integr. starter-alternator remove+reinstall - Time Units: SEE ELSA (for 4M, 23, A8, 22, C8, 21, SC, 24 criteria)
  • 2726 55 73: Integr. starter-alternator replace - Time Units: SEE ELSA (for RQ, 27, S8, 25, RS, 26 criteria)
  • 2706 89 50: Battery charge - Time Units: SEE ELSA

Owner Action

If you own a 2019-2021 Audi A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6, RS7, RSQ8, S6, S7, or S8, you should contact an authorized Audi dealer as soon as possible to schedule this work. This repair will be performed free of charge. You can check your vehicle's eligibility by visiting www.audiusa.com (for US owners) or www.audi.ca (for Canadian owners) and using the Recall/Service Campaign Lookup tool with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

NHTSA Source: 27BQ