2005-2026 Audi Navigation Route Guidance Complaints TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2005-2026 Audi vehicles may experience several issues related to the navigation system's performance. These complaints often center around the accuracy and relevance of the route guidance and map data.

Common symptoms include:

• Incorrect Route Guidance: The suggested route does not meet the driver's expectations, or the system proposes a path that does not lead to the intended destination or includes unnecessary detours.
• Outdated Map Data: Complaints about specific sections of the route, roundabouts, speed limits, addresses, or Points of Interest (POIs) such as charging stations, which are not digitalized or are incorrectly displayed.

Technical Background

Audi's navigation systems, including MIB3, MIB2+, MIB2high, MIB2Scale, MIB1 High (navigation plus), RMC navigation, and MMI 3G variants, rely on continually updated map data. These updates are provided by external map suppliers and reflect the static environmental state at a specific time. While updates are frequent, real-world changes like new roads, speed limits, or POIs can sometimes outpace the digital map updates.

Different infotainment systems have varying update mechanisms:

• MIB3: Vehicles (e.g., A4/A5 MY 2020 onwards) receive automatic monthly Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for the region where the vehicle is driven. Additional regions and destinations are updated when route guidance is active. This feature can be activated via Menu > Settings > System maintenance.
• MIB2+: Vehicles (e.g., A8 MY 2019 onwards) receive automatic OTA updates approximately every three months, provided the vehicle meets specific conditions (e.g., 20 bus sleep cycles). A full map update, if required, can be purchased from an Audi dealership. This feature is also activated via Menu > Settings > System maintenance.
• MIB2high (Audi TT and Audi R8 up to MY 2023): Up to five consecutive OTA updates are available free of charge. These can be installed over the air or by an Audi dealership (which may incur an additional fee).
• MIB1 High (navigation plus) / RMC navigation / MIB1 Standard Navigation / MMI 3G variants: Map updates for these older systems (e.g., MMI navigation plus from 2014 onwards, RNS-E 2004-2012, MMI 3G+ 2008-2014) are typically purchased and installed at an Audi dealership. The last planned or available map versions vary by system, with some reaching their final update in 2023 or 2024.

It is important to note that the complexity of route guidance, which considers numerous factors like road classification and traffic information, means that local knowledge may sometimes find quicker routes. Discrepancies between real-world conditions and map data are generally not considered a fault with the vehicle or its installed map update.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing issues with your Audi navigation route guidance, follow these steps:

1. Ensure Map Data is Current: The first step is to verify that your vehicle's navigation database is the most current version available. For newer MIB systems, check your Menu > Settings > System maintenance for OTA updates. For older systems, consult your Audi dealership regarding the latest available map versions.
2. Reproduce the Complaint: Attempt to reproduce the specific route complaint or deviation. If the route is not local, use demo mode to simulate the route.
3. Report Map Discrepancies: If the issue persists with the newest map database, you can report discrepancies directly to the map suppliers:
   • HERE Map Creator: For systems like MMI navigation plus (7UG, 7UZ, 7UF, 7T6, 7T2), MIB1Std A3, MIB2Scale A4, and MMI 3G Basic, visit https://bit.ly/3wtj1y8 (one-off registration required).
   • TomTom MapShare: For systems like MMI navigation (RMC) A6/A7 (7Q4, 7T2), MMI navigation Q3, A4, and A3, visit https://bit.ly/3uHbNXw (one-off registration required).

Reporting POI or address issues to these suppliers can lead to permanent inclusion in future map updates after verification. If a POI/Address can be found but is incorrect, it will likely be addressed in an upcoming navigation database update.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 91 23 26 2071264/1) is for informational purposes only. It is not applicable to any Audi warranty. Updating the navigation database, especially for certain MMI systems, may incur an additional expense for the vehicle owner and is typically not covered under warranty. Replacing components due to route guidance complaints is not permitted without prior approval from Audi.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10241458