2022-2024 Audi A3/RS3/S3 Starting Issue Update 97HY

Audi has issued a dealer communication, identified as UPDATE 97HY, concerning a potential starting issue in certain 2022-2024 Audi A3, RS3, and S3 models. This update, also referred to as a Central Electronics Control Module Update (NVLW), addresses a condition where the central electrics may prevent the vehicle from starting under specific circumstances. In some cases, this issue can lead to a complete no-start condition, leaving the driver stranded.

This update is crucial for maintaining the reliability and functionality of your vehicle. If you own a 2022-2024 Audi A3, RS3, or S3 and experience a starting problem, or simply want to ensure your vehicle is up-to-date, it is important to understand the details of this service action.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi A3, RS3, and S3 vehicles may experience a condition where the central electrics prevent the vehicle from starting. The primary symptom is the inability to start the vehicle, which can occur under certain circumstances. This issue directly impacts the vehicle's operability, making it a significant concern for drivers.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has provided specific instructions regarding this update, and there are key points that owners should be aware of:

• No Customer Notification Letters: "Updates differ from recalls and service actions; consumers are notified in writing of recalls and service actions. Therefore, consistent with general policy governing Updates, customers will not be receiving letters about this action." This means Audi will not be sending out individual letters to vehicle owners about this specific update. Owners must proactively check if their vehicle is affected and ensure the update is performed.
• New Vehicle Delivery Restriction: "Affected vehicles in dealer inventory cannot be delivered to consumers until this Update is completed." This is a critical point for anyone awaiting delivery of a new 2022-2024 Audi A3, RS3, or S3. Dealers are prohibited from selling or delivering these vehicles until the UPDATE 97HY has been successfully applied.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves performing the Central Electronics Control Module Update. This update is available as of April 04, 2024. Audi dealers are instructed to refer to ELSA and Service References in Elsa2Go for comprehensive repair and claiming instructions. The process includes checking daily campaign open inventory reports to identify affected vehicles and ensuring the update is completed on all inventory vehicles before delivery to consumers. Any vehicle entering the workshop for service that shows this Update code open in ELSA should have the work completed on the day of repair.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2024 Audi A3, RS3, or S3, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealer. Inquire about UPDATE 97HY to determine if your vehicle requires the Central Electronics Control Module Update. Even if you haven't experienced the 2024 Audi S3 starting issue, proactively checking can prevent future problems. Since owners will not receive direct notification letters, it is your responsibility to ensure this important update is applied.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10253343