2021 Audi A5/RS 5 Rear Backrest Not Folding TSB

Owners of 2021 Audi A5 and RS 5 vehicles may encounter a problem where the second-row backrests fail to fold down as expected. This can be frustrating, especially when needing extra cargo space. Audi has addressed this with Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2062113/2, which details the cause and a straightforward repair.

This TSB, identified as 72 21 33 2062113/2, supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 72 number 21-32 dated February 3, 2021, and was revised on February 25, 2021, to update required parts and tools.

Symptoms

If your 2021 Audi A5 backrest not folding is due to this issue, you might notice the following:

• "The second row backrests are not folding when the release levers in the luggage compartment are operated/pulled."
• The backrest release levers in the luggage compartment do not provide feedback or resistance when pulled; they feel loose.
• The backrests only move forward approximately 1/8 inch.
• The red backrest latch markings protrude.
• "The backrests do not fold forward."

Technical Background

Audi's investigation revealed that the root cause of the 2021 Audi A5 backrest not folding issue is a Bowden cable that disengages from its attachment point. This cable is responsible for releasing the backrest latch. When it disconnects, the latch cannot be operated, preventing the backrest from folding.

In some cases, this disengagement can also lead to damage to the Bowden cable itself or its attachment point within the luggage compartment side trim.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the 2021 Audi A5 backrest not folding problem involves a few key steps:

1. Diagnosis: A technician will first confirm that the Bowden cable is disengaged by checking if the second-row backrest release lever feels loose or has no resistance.
2. Access: The luggage compartment side trim on the affected side will be removed, following instructions in the Elsa repair manual.
3. Inspection: Both the Bowden cable and the backrest release mechanism will be inspected for any signs of damage.
4. Reinstallation and Securing: The Bowden cable will be reinstalled into the backrest release mechanism. It will then be secured with a tie wrap to prevent future disengagement.
5. Functionality Check: The operation of both backrest release levers in the luggage compartment will be checked to ensure they function correctly.
6. Reassembly: Finally, the luggage compartment side trim will be reinstalled.

Required Parts and Tools

To complete this repair, technicians will require:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed, referenced in ETKA/ELSA and the repair manual.
• Tie wrap: Part number N 10647801. One or two tie wraps may be needed.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty program under specific conditions:

• Claim Type 110: Applicable for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles.
• Claim Type G10: For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, requiring owner verification.
• Service Number: 7263
• Damage Code: 0010
• Labor Operations: The repair involves labor operations 7263 4999 (20 TU) for one side or 7263 5099 (30 TU) for both sides.

Important Warning: If your vehicle is outside of the warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, meaning the repair costs may not be covered by Audi.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2021 Audi A5 or RS 5 and are experiencing the rear backrests not folding or loose release levers, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Reference TSB 72 21 33 2062113/2 when discussing the issue with your service advisor.

NHTSA ID: 10187583