2022-2023 Audi Optical Defects Damage Code 0030 TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 66 22 86 2046229/3, dated April 7, 2022, to provide guidance on handling warranty claims for optical defects in 2022-2023 Audi models. This TSB supersedes previous bulletin Group 66 number 21-68 from January 12, 2021, and focuses on the proper documentation required for repairs coded as damage code 0030.

Symptoms: What to Look For

This TSB specifically addresses visual imperfections that affect the appearance of vehicle components. These are categorized under damage code 0030 and include a range of issues.

Common examples of these Audi optical defects damage code 0030 issues are:

• Dents or shrink marks on surfaces.
• Flaking paint or chrome, particularly in the passenger compartment or on trim strips.
• Discolored or wavy components.
• Peeling radiator grille.
• Peeling start-stop button.
• Peeling armrest door pull.

These are the types of cosmetic concerns that, when present, should be coded as damage code 0030 for warranty purposes.

Damage Code 0030 Explained

Damage code 0030 is used by Audi to classify specific types of optical defects for warranty claims. It's crucial to understand what this code covers and, more importantly, what it does not.

Important Warning: Damage Code 0030 should not be used for repairs to components that are separated, broken, loose, or deformed, such as a loose seat back cover or deformed center armrest. For these types of issues, technicians should consult Elsa for the correct damage codes.

Important Warranty Information

To ensure continued product quality and proper warranty reimbursement, Audi Warranty requires specific photographic evidence for all repairs coded to damage code 0030. Claims submitted without the necessary photographic documentation may be delayed or rejected.

Damages resulting from negligence, customer driving habits, or other outside influence are not eligible for Warranty reimbursement. This means that if the optical defect is determined to be caused by external factors not related to manufacturing, it will not be covered.

Repair Procedure Summary

For technicians, the process for addressing Audi optical defects damage code 0030 involves careful documentation. The primary goal is to provide Audi Warranty and Product Support with a clear understanding of the concern through detailed photographs.

The steps are as follows:

1. Verify that the issue genuinely qualifies for damage code 0030 based on the descriptions provided in the Technical Background section of the TSB.
2. Take a series of specific photographs and upload them to DOC-IT along with the repair order. These photos must include:
   • An overview photograph showing the component's location within the vehicle (as shown in Figure 1 of the TSB).
   • A close-up photograph of the optical defect itself, clearly showing the issue (as shown in Figure 2 of the TSB).
   • A photograph of any data sticker on the component, if applicable, to show details like version, part number, or manufacturer information.
   • A photograph of the vehicle's VIN to confirm it belongs to the affected vehicle.
3. Ensure all photographs are in focus and have sufficient lighting to clearly show the defect and surrounding areas.
4. Log into Audi Warranty Online and submit the photographs to Doc-IT, referencing the repair order (RO) number and VIN.

This TSB is informational only, guiding the warranty claim process rather than detailing a specific repair method.

What Owners Should Know

If you notice any optical defects on your 2022-2023 Audi, it's important to understand the warranty process. While many cosmetic issues may be covered, proper documentation is key. Your Audi dealership will need to follow the specific photographic guidelines outlined in this TSB to process any warranty claim related to Audi optical defects damage code 0030.

Remember that defects caused by external factors or customer actions are typically not covered under warranty. Always discuss the nature of the defect with your service advisor to determine eligibility.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10210248