2021-2023 Audi e-tron Electric Motor Leak TSB P0AA600

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2073858/9 to address specific issues in 2021-2023 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback vehicles. This TSB details how to diagnose and repair concerns related to various warning messages in the instrument cluster and internal electric motor coolant leaks, often referenced by the identifier P0AA600.

Symptoms of Electric Motor Leak

Owners of affected 2021-2023 Audi e-tron vehicles may experience a range of symptoms indicating a potential issue with the electric drive motor or its cooling system. The primary customer complaint is the appearance of a 'Drive System/Electrical System Malfunction' message in the instrument cluster. This warning may not always be present during inspection.

Other reported symptoms include:

• Noises and vibrations, such as jerking, general noise, pinging, or vibrating.
• Functionality issues, including the vehicle not switching on/connecting, having no function, or misfiring.
• Visible leaks, potentially indicating a not watertight seal.
• Inability to switch on or activate certain functions.

Associated Fault Codes (DTCs)

During diagnosis, technicians may find specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the vehicle's control modules. The TSB mentions the identifier P0AA600 in relation to electric motor leaks.

The Battery manager control module -J840- may store the following DTC:

Code	Description	Module
P0AA600	Electric Motor Coolant Leak	N/A (Implied from topic)
N/A	Hybrid/EV Battery Voltage System Isolation	Battery manager control module -J840-

Diagnosis of the Issue

Workshop findings confirm that the problem often stems from an internal coolant leak within the electric drive motor. This can manifest as a full coolant drip container or coolant leaking from the active chamber on the front or rear axle.

It is crucial to note that a few milliliters of coolant leakage from the resolver cover is not considered a technical issue. However, any coolant escaping from the bores of the active chamber indicates a problem. The presence of the 'Drive System/Electrical System Malfunction' message, combined with evidence of an internal coolant leak, points to damage to the electric drive motor.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process focuses on identifying and rectifying the source of the coolant leak. Technicians are instructed to:

1. Check for Coolant Leaks: Thoroughly inspect the electric drive motor for any signs of internal coolant leakage.
2. Localize the Source: Pinpoint the exact location of the leak. This involves checking the drip container for the rear axle (Figure 2 in the original document) and the active chamber for both front and rear axles (Figure 3 and Figure 4 in the original document).
3. Inspect Coolant Expansion Tank Seal: Before any major work, the seal on the coolant expansion tank should be checked and re-secured if necessary. Vehicles must never be operated without a correctly filled cooling system.
4. Drive Motor Replacement: If an internal coolant leak is confirmed, the electric drive motor may need replacement. Specific instructions are provided for replacing the drive motor without changing the gearbox, including calibrating axial clearance and using correct shims. If gearbox noises are apparent after repairs, it suggests incorrect shims were used.

It is important to note that the power electronics should not be replaced if only the electric drive motor is leaking. If the power and control electronics for the electric drive must be replaced as a group, this will be billed separately according to warranty accounting instructions.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2023 Audi e-tron or e-tron Sportback and observe a 'Drive System/Electrical System Malfunction' warning, hear unusual noises, or notice any signs of coolant leakage, especially if you suspect an Audi e-tron P0AA600 issue, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealership promptly. Describe the symptoms you are experiencing to them.

Your dealer will be able to perform the necessary diagnostics, including checking for the P0AA600 code and other related DTCs, and carry out the appropriate repair procedure as outlined in TSB 2073858/9. Repairs for issues covered under warranty will typically be performed at no charge.

NHTSA ID: 11022666