Audi S3 Control Unit Return: Special Notice SM 50-2024

Audi and Volkswagen have issued Special Notice SM 50-2024, a Parts Circular dated August 26, 2024, to their dealerships. This notice primarily concerns the return of certain control units from dealer inventory. The objective is to manage parts inventory effectively and ensure that customers receive the most current and correct components for their vehicles, including models like the 2022-2025 Audi S3.

This internal communication, identified as SM 50-2024, highlights specific part numbers and a critical hardware version that must be returned. The process is designed to streamline inventory and credit for dealerships while ultimately benefiting vehicle owners by ensuring the quality of replacement parts.

Affected Control Units and Hardware Version

The Special Notice SM 50-2024 specifically targets two control unit part numbers: 5WA-980-556-B and 5WA-980-556-C. It is crucial to note that only units with a particular hardware version, H53, are affected and must be returned. The document explicitly states that "Only parts with hardware version H53 are affected and must be returned. All other software versions are good."

This distinction is vital for dealers to identify the correct units for return. An example image provided in the notice shows a control unit labeled "5WA.980.556.C" with "H53" clearly marked, indicating an affected part. This ensures that only the intended components are processed for return, preventing unnecessary disruption to parts supply for other versions.

Why These Parts Are Being Returned

The primary reason for this parts circular is "to improve the level of parts that reach your customers." While the notice does not detail a specific fault or defect, the instruction to return certain hardware versions implies that these units may be superseded, updated, or deemed less optimal for current service and manufacturing needs. By removing these specific units from inventory, Audi and Volkswagen aim to ensure that only the most appropriate and high-quality control units are available for vehicle repairs and new vehicle production.

This proactive inventory management helps maintain the reliability and performance standards expected from Audi and Volkswagen vehicles, including the 2022-2025 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, and 2022-2025 Volkswagen Golf R and GTI models.

Dealer Return Procedure Summary

For dealerships, the Special Notice SM 50-2024 outlines a clear procedure for returning the affected control units. Dealers are instructed to file a separate "Claim with Return" and specify "Dir Sup. Req. Return" as the item type. They must include the Special Notice Number and Parts Circular number in their dealer comments. After reviewing the Parts On Command system for the Delivery List document, dealers need to enter their delivery document number on a YELLOW DEPOT REQUEST RETURN label. This label must then be adhered to the package(s) containing the returned parts, along with a copy of the Delivery Document.

Important Deadlines and Warnings

Dealers are given a strict deadline for returning the affected control units. The notice states, "Please return your inventory of the above-listed material numbers to your facing PDC, no later than September 16, 2024." This deadline is critical for dealerships to receive proper credit for the returned parts. A significant warning is also issued: "Items returned after the above-mentioned date WILL NOT be accepted on any type of return/buyback." This emphasizes the importance of timely action for dealers to comply with the Special Notice SM 50-2024.

What This Means for Owners

As an owner of a 2022-2025 Audi S3 or other affected models like the Audi A3, RS 3, VW Golf R, or GTI, this parts circular is an internal dealer communication and does not require direct action from you. This process is designed to ensure that when your vehicle requires service or if you are purchasing a new vehicle, the parts used are the most current and highest quality available. The return of specific control units with hardware version H53 helps maintain the integrity of the parts supply chain. If your vehicle requires a control unit replacement, your dealership will ensure that the correct, updated part is installed, aligning with the manufacturer's quality standards.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11007389