2021 Audi Virtual Cockpit Display Black or Fault Message TSB

Owners of 2021 Audi A6, A7, A8, Q7, and Q8 models may encounter problems with their virtual cockpit display. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2078439/1 from Audi addresses instances where the display is black or shows a specific fault message, indicating an internal hardware malfunction.

Symptoms

Owners typically observe one of two primary symptoms related to the virtual cockpit:

• The Audi virtual cockpit display is completely black. This display failure can occur intermittently or permanently.
• The virtual cockpit display shows the message: "Instrument cluster: fault. Limited warning messages. Please contact workshop". Concurrently, the status line at the bottom of the display may illuminate warning lamps for the brake, anti-lock brake system, steering, and safety systems.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When these symptoms occur, a specific Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is logged in the instrument cluster's event memory.

Diagnostic Address	Diagnostic Trouble Code	Fault Symptom	Storage State
0017 Instrument cluster	B200049	Control module faulty Internal electrical malfunction	static

This DTC, specifically "B200049 – Control module faulty, static/active, symptom 10485833", is logged in diagnostic address 0017 for both types of complaints.

Important Warnings

Audi emphasizes a critical detail regarding the repair kits:

• The repair kit for the A6, A7, Q7, and Q8 is NOT compatible with the repair kit for the A8!
• The repair kits are NOT compatible with each other! When placing the order, please make sure you use the correct part number for the affected vehicle.

Technical Background

Audi has identified the root cause of the virtual cockpit display issues as a hardware problem. An optimized hardware version for the virtual cockpit was implemented in production starting July 1, 2021. Vehicles manufactured before this date may be susceptible to this issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the 2021 Audi Q8 virtual cockpit fault B200049 involves replacing two flexible films inside the instrument cluster. This procedure requires careful handling and adherence to electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection measures to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components. Technicians must wear an ESD wrist strap, nitrile gloves, and use an earthed ESD workplace mat.

After removing the virtual cockpit from the vehicle, it is opened to access the internal components. The faulty flexible films, identifiable by their white contact surfaces, are carefully removed. New, optimized flexible films, which have blue contact surfaces, are then installed. The process involves opening and closing retaining tabs on connectors and ensuring correct positioning of the films. Once the new films are in place, the virtual cockpit is reassembled and reinstalled in the vehicle.

Post-repair, a diagnostic function named "0017 – Flex film repair kit" must be run using an ODIS tester with Audi brand version 2025.06.00 or higher. This function verifies the correct operation of the virtual cockpit, checking for turn signals, hazard warning lights, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, battery charge level (for hybrid vehicles), and the absence of fault messages like "Instrument cluster: fault. Limited warning messages. Please contact workshop". If the 2021 Audi Q8 virtual cockpit fault B200049 persists, the installation of the flexible films must be re-checked.

Required Tools and Parts

Special tools and parts are required for this repair:

• Repair kit for Audi A6, A7, Q7, Q8: Part number 4K0 998 790
• Repair kit for Audi A8: Part number 4N0 998 790
• Diagnostic Tester: ODIS tester with Audi brand version 2025.06.00 or higher.
• ESD Equipment: Earthed ESD workplace mat (e.g., VAS 6613), ESD wrist strap, nitrile gloves.
• MOST Protective Connector: To protect the fiber optic cable socket during the repair.
• Assembly Tool: Included in the repair kit.

Owner Action

If you experience a black virtual cockpit display or the "Instrument cluster: fault" message in your 2021 Audi A6, A7, A8, Q7, or Q8, you should contact an authorized Audi service center. The repair involves specialized tools and procedures that should only be performed by trained technicians. Ensure your service center is aware of TSB 2078439/1.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin outlines specific warranty claim types and labor operations:

• Claim Type: T055
• Service Number: 9025
• Labor Operations:
  • Remove and install the instrument cluster: 9025 19xx
  • Repair instrument cluster: 9025 4199 (30 TU)
  • GFF / Guided Functions: 0150 0060 (Labor according to diagnostic log)
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2078439/1

Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this TSB serves as informational guidance, and repair costs may apply.

NHTSA ID: 11021465