2021 Audi Driver Assist System Malfunction TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 90 20 75 2060332/2 to address an intermittent Audi driver assist malfunction affecting various 2021 models. This bulletin specifically targets scenarios where driver assistance systems become inoperable and the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C12D5FA is stored in the vehicle's control module.

According to Audi, the root cause of this issue is an overly sensitive diagnostic function within the driver assist systems. A permanent software solution is anticipated in the third quarter of 2021.

Symptoms of an Audi Driver Assist Malfunction

Owners of affected 2021 Audi vehicles may experience the following symptoms related to the Audi driver assist malfunction:

• Driver assistance systems are inoperable.
• A warning message is displayed in the instrument cluster.
• Specific warnings such as "Audi adaptive light malfunction" or "Audi pre sense system error" may appear.
• Messages indicating "Adaptive vehicle assistance restricted" or "Adaptive vehicle assistance predictive regulation currently restricted" might be shown.
• The driver assistance systems may become available again after a few seconds, indicating an intermittent problem.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When this issue occurs, the control module for driver assist systems, identified as J1121 (address word 00A5), will store a specific diagnostic trouble code:

Code	Description	Module
C12D5FA	Control unit for driver assist systems, picture processor does not respond	J1121 control unit

This DTC is often accompanied by symptom code 221281.

What the Service Bulletin Says

TSB 90 20 75 2060332/2 outlines a temporary procedure for dealerships to follow when a customer reports an Audi driver assist malfunction with DTC C12D5FA. The bulletin instructs technicians to:

1. Delete the DTC C12D5FA from the vehicle's memory.
2. Inform the customer that a permanent solution, likely a software update, is expected in the third quarter of 2021.
3. Emphasize that no component replacements are necessary for this condition at this time, as replacing parts will not resolve the underlying issue.
4. Create a PSS (Pending Service Solutions) record to track the issue.

This TSB supersedes a previous bulletin, 90 20-64, dated August 4, 2020. Warranty claims are covered for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, or under G10 for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles.

What to Do

If you own a 2021 Audi model and are experiencing an Audi driver assist malfunction with symptoms like warning messages or inoperable assistance systems, and suspect DTC C12D5FA, you should contact your authorized Audi dealership. While a permanent fix is pending, the dealership can clear the fault code and inform you about the upcoming software update. Do not attempt to replace any components yourself, as this will not resolve the issue.

Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual and consult with a certified Audi technician for diagnosis and repair.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10181187