2022 Audi A3 Q3 Q4 Distorted Phone Voice Output TSB

Symptoms of Distorted Phone Voice Output

Owners of certain 2022 Audi A3, Q3, and Q4 vehicles may experience issues with their phone's voice output during calls. The primary complaint is that the "voice output is intermittently distorted when making a phone call." This distortion is typically heard by the driver inside the vehicle, unlike other issues that might affect the person on the other end of the line.

Customers have described the interference as a "scratching or tinny noise." This problem affects various aspects of the vehicle's communication and entertainment system. Specifically, complaints have been logged regarding "information, navigation, communication, entertainment -> telephone operation" manifesting as "noises, vibrations" or "distorted sound."

Other reported complaint types include general "functionality" issues related to "information, navigation, communication, entertainment -> telephony." For "information, navigation, communication, entertainment -> telephone operation -> phone call," owners may hear "noises, vibrations -> noise." Additionally, issues with "information, navigation, communication, entertainment -> telephone operation -> Bluetooth connection" have been categorized under "functionality -> misfire," indicating a potential disruption in Bluetooth connectivity during calls.

Diagnostic Information

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2079596/1 identifies the root cause as a software issue within the MIB3 infotainment system. While no specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are listed in this TSB, the problem is localized to the control unit identified by the diagnostic address "005F - Information electronics 1."

This control unit is associated with software versions such as "3853" and "36*." Workshops are typically able to reproduce the complaint, confirming the presence of the "Audi MIB3 distorted voice output" issue.

Technical Background and Production Solution

Audi has determined that the intermittent distorted voice output is a software-related issue. This problem affects vehicles equipped with the MIB3 (Modular Infotainment Baukasten 3) system, specifically those built on the MQB (Modular Transverse Matrix) and MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit) platforms, including the A3, Q3, and Q4 models with Cluster 35.

The production solution for this issue was implemented starting with model year 2023 vehicles. This indicates that newer models may incorporate the necessary software updates from the factory.

Superseded Bulletins

This Technical Service Bulletin, 2079596/1, is an update that replaces a previous communication, PSS 2071924. The superseded bulletin was titled "PSS 91 MIB3 (MQB/MEB): phone audio sporadically distorted for the driver of the vehicle." Owners or technicians searching for information related to the older PSS 2071924 should refer to this current TSB 2079596/1 for the most up-to-date information.

Repair Procedure Overview

The resolution for the "Audi MIB3 distorted voice output" issue involves a software update to the vehicle's infotainment system. TSB 2079596/1 serves as a reference document, directing technicians to other specific TSBs that contain the detailed instructions for performing the necessary software update.

For Audi A3 and Q3 models, technicians are instructed to consult TSB 2076404. This bulletin provides comprehensive service information regarding the deployment overview for customer service packages applicable to MLB and MQB platforms equipped with the MIB3/connectivity box. For Audi Q4 models, the relevant document is TSB 2079289, which details a combined software update, specifically ID.S 3.8.2, tailored for the Audi Q4.

Audi notes that the software update is being rolled out in stages, with availability depending on the country and specific vehicle equipment. Technicians are also advised to check the Repair Manual for any specific fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that may require replacement during the repair process.

Important Warnings and What Owners Should Know

Owners should be aware of several critical points regarding TSB 2079596/1:

• Future Release Date: This TSB has an unusual release date of October 7, 2025. This indicates that while the issue has been identified and a solution planned, the full deployment or detailed repair instructions may not be immediately available. Owners experiencing the "Audi MIB3 distorted voice output" issue should contact their authorized Audi dealer for the most current information regarding the availability of the software update for their specific vehicle.
• Warranty and Billing: Audi explicitly states, "Please do not bill repairs under this TSB. This TSB is for reference only; billing info can be found in the relevant TSB for the software update instructions." This means that while the repair itself (the software update) is expected to be covered under warranty, the specific billing codes and procedures will be detailed in the other TSBs (2076404 for A3/Q3, and 2079289 for Q4) that outline the actual repair steps. Owners should confirm with their dealer about the no-charge nature of this software update.
• Information Subject to Change: Audi advises that "All part and service references provided in this TSB (2079596) are subject to change and/or removal." This underscores the importance of consulting an authorized Audi service center for the most up-to-date information and service procedures.

NHTSA ID: 11025258