2025-2026 Audi Engine Warning Lamp On DTC P157000

Understanding the Audi P157000 Engine Locked Issue

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2080076/1 to address a specific software-related issue that can lead to an illuminated engine warning lamp and the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P157000 "Engine Control Module (ECM) locked" being stored in the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM). This TSB applies to certain 2025-2026 Audi A5, S5, Q5, SQ5, and A6 models. This condition can prevent the engine from starting on the first attempt and may display various messages in the instrument cluster.

The core of the problem stems from a software issue within the onboard supply control unit J519, which has a diagnostic address of 0009. This software glitch can cause the ECM to become "locked," triggering the P157000 fault code.

Symptoms of the P157000 Fault

Owners experiencing the Audi P157000 engine locked issue may notice different symptoms depending on their vehicle's engine type.

For vehicles equipped with a 2.0 liter gasoline engine, the following symptoms may occur:

• The engine does not start on the first attempt.
• Multiple driver messages appear in the instrument cluster.
• After cycling the ignition (switching it off and then back on), the engine typically starts without further issues.

For all other engine types, the symptoms are slightly different:

• Several driver messages appear in the instrument cluster immediately after starting the vehicle.
• The vehicle can only be driven electrically, meaning the engine itself will not start.
• Similar to the 2.0 liter engines, cycling the ignition off and on usually allows the engine to start again, and no further issues are typically observed.

A key characteristic noted by workshops is that the customer complaint cannot usually be reproduced during diagnostic checks, making the DTC P157000 "Engine Control Module (ECM) locked" a crucial indicator.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

The primary diagnostic trouble code associated with this issue is:

• P157000: "Engine Control Module (ECM) locked." This code is logged in the Engine Electronics -J623- (diagnostic address 0001).

It is important to note that this TSB specifically applies if the DTC P157000 is logged in the engine control module (diagnostic address 0001) AND the DTC "Transmission control module locked" is NOT logged in the transmission control module (diagnostic address 0002). This distinction helps technicians correctly identify the specific software issue addressed by TSB 2080076/1.

Technical Background and Repair

The root cause of the Audi P157000 engine locked condition is identified as a software issue within the onboard supply control unit J519. This unit is responsible for various electrical functions within the vehicle, and a glitch in its software can lead to the ECM locking. Audi has implemented a production change in the fourth quarter of 2025 to address this issue in newly manufactured vehicles.

For existing vehicles, the repair involves a software update. Technicians are instructed to check for the visibility of TSB 2079690, which describes a combined software update (version 03.10.00/C, 28.13.01, KD2). If this related TSB is applicable, the software update detailed within it should be performed. The affected software versions for this issue include 1436, 1437, and 1496.

Warranty and Service Information

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2080076/1) provides guidelines for warranty claims. If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

The service operation is identified by Service Number 9710 and Damage Code KD02. Labor operations for this repair include:

• 0151 0010: Software update, including connecting a battery charger. This operation also refers to associated SRT (Standard Repair Time) operations.
• 0151 0040: A fixed rate for the complete software update process, which covers all necessary preliminary and follow-up work. This includes procedures such as bus sleep cycle management, calibration drives, additional work, and restarting the software update if flashing is interrupted. This operation has an allocated time unit (TU) of 130.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review and audit by Audi Warranty. When performing the combined software update, time stamps are not required for billing under warranty, allowing technicians to work on other vehicles concurrently. This update can also be performed by non-productive personnel, indicating a relatively straightforward process.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2025-2026 Audi A5, S5, Q5, SQ5, or A6 and are experiencing symptoms such as the engine warning lamp illuminating, the engine not starting on the first attempt, or various messages appearing in your instrument cluster, especially if you suspect the Audi P157000 engine locked fault, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealership. They can perform a diagnostic scan to confirm the presence of DTC P157000 and determine if your vehicle requires the software update outlined in TSB 2080076/1. Ensure to mention the TSB number when discussing the issue with your service advisor.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11026280