2021 Audi e-tron Driver Assist Malfunction DTC C12D5FA

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) PSS 90 2060332/3, dated February 26, 2021, supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 90 number 20-75, dated October 15, 2020. The revisions include:

• Revision 3: Revised header (added additional software version) and revised service (changed expected date).
• Revision 2 (October 15, 2020): Revised header (added additional software version).
• Revision 1 (August 04, 2020): Initial publication.

Symptoms of Driver Assist Malfunction

Owners of affected 2021 Audi e-tron and other models may experience their driver assistance systems becoming inoperable. This condition is often intermittent, with systems becoming available again after a few seconds. Drivers will typically see a warning message displayed in the instrument cluster. These messages can include:

• "Audi adaptive light malfunction."
• "Audi pre sense system error."
• "Adaptive vehicle assistance restricted."
• "Adaptive vehicle assistance predictive regulation currently restricted."

These warnings indicate an issue with the vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems.

Fault Codes

When diagnosing this issue, technicians may find the following diagnostic trouble code (DTC) stored intermittently in the J1121 control unit (address word 00A5), which is responsible for driver assist systems:

Code	Description	Module	Symptom Code
C12D5FA	Control unit for driver assist systems, picture processor does not respond	J1121 (Driver Assist Systems)	221281

The underlying cause for the Audi e-tron C12D5FA fault is an overly sensitive diagnostic function within the system, rather than a hardware failure.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that the diagnostic function for the driver assistance systems is too sensitive. This sensitivity leads to the intermittent storage of the C12D5FA DTC and the display of warning messages, even when there is no actual hardware malfunction.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has provided specific guidance for this condition to prevent unnecessary repairs:

• "Do not replace any components for this condition since this will not resolve the customer's concern." This is crucial, as replacing parts will not fix the underlying software sensitivity.
• "Explain to the customer that a solution is forthcoming for the 1st quarter of 2022 and that no repairs are necessary at this point." Owners should be informed that a software update is expected to resolve the issue in the near future.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Audi e-tron C12D5FA issue is straightforward and does not involve replacing any hardware. Technicians are instructed to:

1. Delete the diagnostic trouble code C12D5FA from the vehicle's system.
2. Release the vehicle back to the customer.
3. Inform the customer about the forthcoming software solution expected in the first quarter of 2022 and reiterate that no component replacement is needed for this condition.
4. Create a PSS (Pending Service Solutions) record in the PSS application. This can be done via the PSS link in AccessAudi (under Related Links >> Service) or through the Technical Assistance page in Elsa.

This procedure ensures that the temporary fault is cleared and the customer is aware of the ongoing efforts to provide a permanent resolution.

Warranty Information

This service is covered under warranty for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, it falls under Claim Type G10, requiring verification of the owner. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

• Service Number: 9093
• Damage Code: 0039
• Diagnostic Time: GFF, 0151 0000. This time is stated on the diagnostic protocol, with a maximum of 25 Time Units (TU).
• Road Test Allowance: No allowance (0 TU) is provided for road tests both prior to and after the service procedure.
• Claim Comment: All warranty claims must include the comment "As per TSB #2060332/3".

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Additional Information

All part and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change. Technicians should always check with their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and bulletins. Additionally, the Repair Manual should be consulted for details on fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that require replacement during repair.

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NHTSA ID: 10187974