2021-2026 Audi A/C Compressor Replacement Test Plan TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2041717/13 to clarify the required procedures for replacing air conditioning (A/C) compressors across a wide range of its models. This bulletin emphasizes the critical need for a specific ODIS GFF cooling performance test plan whenever an A/C compressor is replaced, regardless of the initial problem reported. The TSB applies to 2021-2026 Audi vehicles.

What this TSB Addresses

This TSB, identified as 2041717/13, addresses the mandatory requirement for an ODIS GFF cooling performance test plan (Function Test Log version) to be performed and documented whenever an A/C compressor is replaced. This procedure is crucial for ensuring proper system function and documenting the recovered refrigerant volume. The requirement is mandatory without exception for any Audi A/C compressor replacement test plan.

Symptoms and Conditions

Owners might experience various issues that lead to an A/C compressor replacement. These include:

• The A/C system switch being "too difficult to move" during climate control operation.
• The A/C compressor failing to activate or deactivate, indicating a "no function" state in the climate control unit's cooling output.
• General "no function" in the A/C compressor control within the climate control unit's cooling output.

Mandatory Test Plan Procedure

Before any A/C compressor replacement, technicians must run the ODIS GFF test plan. This test plan's location varies within the ODIS navigation system depending on the specific vehicle and its equipment. The A/C cooling performance test is categorized as a 'function test' and is typically found under sub-headers like 'functions,' 'other functions,' 'general functions tests,' or 'basic settings complete.'

Specific navigation paths include:

• For vehicles with 08 – Heating and Air Conditioning Electronics: Navigate to Guided Functions tab -> Select 08 – Front A/C display control head –E87- >> 08 Heating/Air Conditioning Electronics, functions >> 08-Other Functions. Alternatively, navigate to Test plan tab -> Select Body >> Heating / Air Conditioning >> 01 – On Board Diagnostic (OBD) capable systems >> 08 Climatronic control module, functions J255 >> 08-General function tests.
• For BEV Vehicles with C5 – Thermal Management Control Module: Navigate to Diagnostic capable system >> 00C5 - Thermal Management Control Module -J1024- >> 00C5 - Thermal management control module, functions >> System function test >> Interior cooling. Alternatively, Diagnostic capable system >> 00C5 - Thermal Management Control Module -J1024- >> 00C5 – Basic Settings Complete >> Basic Setting Selection >> System function test >> Interior cooling.
• For PHEV Vehicles with C5 - Thermal Management Control Module: Navigate to Body >> Heating / Air Conditioning >> 01 - On Board Diagnostic (OBD) capable systems >> 00C5 - Thermal Management Control Module -J1024- >> 00C5 – Thermal management control module, functions >> System function test >> Interior cooling.
• For vehicles with HVAC control in 09-Vehicle Electrical System Control Module: Navigate to Body >> Electrical Equipment >> 01-On Board Diagnostic (OBD) capable systems >> 09-Vehicle Electrical System Control Module J519 >> 09-Electric Central Electric, functions >> 09-Other functions, Air Conditioning test plan.

Once the function test is added to the "Tests in current test plan" list, technicians should select "Vehicle is not cooling" to proceed with the air conditioning cooling system performance test plan.

Specific Scenarios and Diagnosis

The TSB outlines specific diagnostic steps for different customer complaints:

• A/C System Noise: If the customer reports a 'noise' when the A/C system is active, but it otherwise functions normally, the ODIS GFF test plan must still be performed with the original compressor. The final log should be uploaded to GFF Paperless, and an audio/video file clearly indicating the compressor as the noise source must be uploaded to Doc-IT.
• HV Compressor Electrical Failure: For vehicles with a High Voltage (HV) compressor where the A/C system does not cool, and a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or electrical error is displayed in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may not directly provide a cooling system performance test plan. In such cases, a completed ODIS test plan for the relevant DTCs must be uploaded to GFF Paperless, and the results must clearly condemn the HV compressor.
• Insufficient Cooling: If the customer's complaint is solely "air conditioning cooling is insufficient," and the cooling system performance test shows that system pressures and evaporator temperatures are within specifications, the A/C compressor should not be replaced. The compressor is considered to be operating properly. If an imbalance of cooling across different zones is found, further diagnosis should focus on other components like faulty temperature regulating doors, door motors, or vent temperature sensors.

Post-Replacement Documentation

If the compressor is found faulty and replaced, the following documentation is required:

• Upload a final protocol of the completed test plan confirming compressor failure to GFF Paperless.
• Attach a printout of only the "Function Test" section of the diagnostic log to the replaced compressor for return to the WPRC.
• Print a summary report showing the amount of refrigerant and refrigerant oil recovered/discharged from the A/C service machine and upload an image of this report to Doc-IT.

Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin 2041717/13 is for informational purposes only and does not apply to any Audi Warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11016505