2021-2022 Audi e-tron Sensor Part Return Notice

Purpose of Special Notice SM 63-2021

Audi and Volkswagen have issued Special Notice SM 63-2021, a Parts Circular, to manage dealer inventory of a specific sensor. This notice aims to ensure that only the most current version of the 4M0-959-603-E sensor is available for service and repairs.

The initiative is a proactive measure to maintain the quality and performance of parts used in vehicles like the 2021-2022 Audi e-tron, Q5, Q8, and Volkswagen ID.4. By removing older stock, the manufacturers ensure that technicians always install parts reflecting the latest state of development. This process is crucial for the ongoing reliability and safety of affected vehicles.

Affected Part Identification

The notice specifically concerns the sensor identified by part number 4M0-959-603-E. To distinguish between the older and newer versions, updated sensors are marked with two distinct features:

• A green permanent marker dot.
• A laser marking dot on the aluminum (Al) fitting.

Dealers are instructed to return any inventory of the 4M0-959-603-E sensor that lacks these specific markings. The image provided in the original notice clearly illustrates these markings on the updated sensor, alongside other manufacturing codes such as 172621, 341905, 803240, and DE CY1, which are also visible on the part itself.

Important Warnings for Dealers

This Special Notice includes a critical warning regarding the return process. "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This strict deadline of September 13, 2021, underscores the importance of prompt inventory management for these specific parts. Dealers were expected to adhere to this timeframe to receive credit for their returns.

Dealer Return Procedure Summary

For dealers to promptly receive credit and improve the level of parts reaching customers, a specific claims procedure must be followed for this Audi e-tron sensor part return. The steps outlined are:

1. File a Claim: Dealers must file a separate "Claim with Return" and select "DIr Sup. Req. Return" as the item type. They need to complete their dealer comments with the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number referenced in the document.
2. Review Delivery List: The following day, dealers should review "Parts On Command" for the Delivery List document. Any problems or delays should be communicated to their facing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).
3. Prepare Return Label: Dealers are required to enter their 40000XXXXX delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label.
4. Adhere Label: The YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label must be adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts.
5. Include Documentation: One copy of the Delivery Document must be included with the returned part(s).

After returning the older inventory, dealers are advised to "re-order required new materials using the same part number" to replenish their stock with the updated sensors, ensuring they have the latest version of the 4M0-959-603-E sensor available for service.

Source: NHTSA ID 10200559