2021-2022 Audi Models Incorrect Outside Temperature Readings

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 90 21 00 2032113/5 to address customer concerns regarding seemingly incorrect outside air temperature readings in various 2021-2022 Audi models. This TSB clarifies that the observed behavior is part of the vehicle's normal operating strategy, designed to provide a smooth and accurate temperature display by filtering out transient fluctuations. Owners searching for "Audi incorrect temperature display" will find this information helpful in understanding their vehicle's behavior.

Symptoms

Owners may notice that the "outside ambient temperature display is incorrect." This typically manifests as the displayed temperature not changing immediately or seeming to lag behind actual conditions, leading to the perception of an inaccurate reading.

Understanding the Audi Incorrect Temperature Display Logic

The TSB explains that the outside temperature display is programmed with specific logic to prevent misleading readings caused by factors like engine heat or road surface temperatures. This sophisticated programming ensures the displayed value is reliable and not subject to rapid, short-term changes.

Key aspects of this display logic include:

• Smoothed Changes: The displayed temperature will not change faster than 4° F (2° C) per minute, whether the temperature is rising or falling. This prevents abrupt and potentially confusing fluctuations.
• Delayed Stationary Updates: After the ignition is switched on, temperature changes are only shown after 30 seconds if the vehicle is stationary (speed is zero and the engine is off). This avoids displaying heat soak from the engine bay.
• Driving Speed Threshold for Rising Temperatures: When the vehicle is driving, rising temperature values are only displayed once the vehicle exceeds 12 mph (20 km/h) and has maintained that speed for the first 3 miles (5 km). This helps ensure the vehicle is moving fast enough to get an accurate air temperature reading away from localized heat sources.
• Falling Temperature Priority: If the measured ambient temperature is higher than the currently displayed value but is actually falling, the display will not update to the higher measured value. It will wait until the measured temperature drops below the displayed value before showing a change.
• Coolant Temperature Influence: If the engine coolant temperature reaches 104° F (40° C) and the vehicle speed drops below 12 mph (20 km/h), only falling ambient temperature values will be shown. This is particularly relevant in stop-and-go traffic, where it can take some time for the displayed temperature to reflect the actual ambient conditions accurately.

Important Information for Owners

Audi explicitly states that "If the conditions above are noted during these typical driving scenarios, the sensor is not at fault and does not need to be replaced." This is a critical point, as it means the perceived "Audi incorrect temperature display" is not due to a malfunction but rather the intended operation of the system.

What to do if you observe this

If you notice your 2021-2022 Audi's outside temperature display behaving in ways that seem unusual, it is important to understand that this is likely due to the sophisticated programming designed to provide accurate and stable readings. No repair is necessary, and the sensor is not considered faulty under these conditions. This TSB clarifies that an "Audi incorrect temperature display" is typically normal operation, not a defect, and is informational only, not applicable to warranty claims.

Superseded Bulletins

This Technical Service Bulletin, 90 21 00 2032113/5, supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 90 number 20-65, which was dated August 27, 2020. This revision includes updates for Model Year 2022 vehicles and previously added Model Year 2021 and Audi e-tron quattro models.

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Source: NHTSA ID 10191141