2021-2023 Audi Q3, A3, S3, RS 3 Phone Call Interference TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2023 Audi Q3, A3, S3, and RS 3 models may experience an Audi phone call interference issue during Bluetooth phone calls. This problem, detailed in Technical Service Bulletin 91 23 86 2065485/4, results in a distinct whistling noise that changes with the engine's RPM, and can also lead to the Speech Dialog System (SDS) being inoperable.

This bulletin, which supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 91 number 22-41 dated November 2, 2022, provides guidance for diagnosing and resolving the interference. The root cause is identified as a hardware issue within the Onboard Communications Unit (OCU), specifically the J949 module (address word 0075), which can couple interference into the microphone signal.

Symptoms

Owners typically report the following symptoms related to the Audi phone call interference:

• When making a phone call via Bluetooth, the receiving person is concerned about interference during the phone call.
• The interference is described as a whistling noise that changes notably with the engine's RPM.
• The Speech Dialog System (SDS) is not working, but hands-free calls are still possible.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

When technicians investigate this issue, they typically find that no relevant Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored in the vehicle's system. The customer's concern regarding the whistling noise and SDS malfunction can usually be reproduced during testing. It is crucial to confirm that the interference noise is indeed coupled to the engine's RPM before proceeding with the repair outlined in TSB 2065485/4.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued specific warnings for both technicians and owners regarding this issue:

• CAUTION: "The problem can also be caused by certain repair methods. Removing the connector from the OCU while the 12V battery is connected to the vehicle can result in permanent damage to the OCU."
• NOTICE: "Before applying this TSB, please make sure that the problem is reproducible and that the interference noise is coupled to the engine RPM. Otherwise, this TSB does not apply and repairs done according to this TSB may not resolve the customer concern."

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi phone call interference and SDS malfunction, the repair procedure outlined in TSB 91 23 86 2065485/4 involves replacing the affected Onboard Communications Unit (OCU) J949. The steps are as follows:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's 12V battery to prevent damage.
2. Replace the emergency onboard communications unit (OCU) -J949- following the appropriate repair instructions found in ELSA.
3. Reconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's 12V battery.
4. Run the part replacement test plan on -J949- (diagnostic address 0075).
5. Verify that the customer's concern has been resolved after the replacement.

Required Parts and Tools

The primary component requiring replacement is the Onboard Communications Unit (OCU). Technicians should consult ETKA for the latest part numbers and information on:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual.
• Onboard Communications Unit (Quantity: 01).

Warranty Information

This repair may be covered under warranty. The claim types include 110 (up to 48 Months/50,000 Miles) and G10 for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

The service number for this repair is 9170, with a damage code of 0039. Labor operations associated with removing and installing/replacing the telematics control module are 9170 19XX or 9170 55XX. Diagnostic time codes include 9785 0999 for battery terminal work and 0150 0000 for GFF diagnostics.

Source: NHTSA ID 10233754