2022 Audi A3 Control Unit Return Notice (SM 63-2022)

What's Affected by Special Notice SM 63-2022

This Special Notice, identified as SM 63-2022, is a directive for Parts Managers and inventory personnel at Audi and Volkswagen dealerships. It concerns the return of specific control units that require further inspection due to their production dates. The affected parts are critical components for various vehicle systems, impacting models like the 2022 Audi A3.

The notice specifically targets three control unit part numbers:

• 5WA-980-556-B (Control Unit)
• 5WA-980-556-D
• 1EA-980-556-F

For these part numbers, only units with production dates ranging from 01.12.21 until 09.02.22 are affected and must be returned. All other production dates for these control units are deemed acceptable for use. The notice also lists specific delivery note numbers (LS 604853, LS 605236, LS 605752, LS 606129, LS 604932, LS 605315, LS 604985, LS 605000) that correspond to the affected inventory.

Why These Parts Are Being Returned

The circular states that parts with the specified production dates "require further inspection." This indicates a potential quality concern or a need for re-evaluation of these specific batches of control units. By initiating a return, the manufacturer aims to ensure that only fully compliant and reliable parts are used in vehicle repairs or new vehicle assembly. This proactive measure helps maintain product quality and customer satisfaction for vehicles such as the 2022 Audi A3.

Important Information for Owners

While this Special Notice SM 63-2022 is primarily an internal communication for dealerships regarding inventory management, it's important for owners of affected vehicles to understand its implications. If your 2022 Audi A3 or other Volkswagen model requires a replacement of one of the listed control units, dealers will ensure that any part installed is from an unaffected production batch. This prevents the use of components that might have potential issues identified during the "further inspection" process.

Owners are not required to take any direct action based on this notice. However, it highlights the manufacturer's commitment to quality control. If you have any concerns about a recent repair involving these control units, you may contact your dealership for clarification.

Dealer Return Procedure Summary

To ensure prompt credit and improve parts availability, dealerships are instructed to follow a specific claims procedure for returning the affected control units. This process involves several steps for the Parts Manager and inventory staff, as detailed in Special Notice SM 63-2022.

First, dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" using the "Dir Sup. Req. Return" item type. This claim needs to include comments referencing the Special Notice Number SM 63-2022 and the Parts Circular number. Next, they must review their "Parts On Command" system the day after filing to access the Delivery List document. Any issues with this document should be directed to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).

The procedure also requires entering the delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label. This label must then be adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts. Finally, a copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s).

Key Dates and Warnings

Dealerships must return their inventory of the above-listed material numbers to their facing PDC no later than November 15, 2022. Items returned after this deadline will not be accepted for any type of return or buyback. This strict deadline emphasizes the urgency of the inventory correction.

Furthermore, the notice explicitly states that if new materials are required, they should be re-ordered using the same part number. This ensures that the correct, updated, or re-inspected versions of the control units are supplied to the dealerships. This Special Notice SM 63-2022 is a critical step in maintaining the quality and reliability of parts used in Audi and Volkswagen vehicles.

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Source: NHTSA ID 10224834