2024 Audi A3/S3/RS 3 Engine Does Not Start Sporadically TSB

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2024 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 MHEV vehicles may experience a condition where the engine does not start sporadically. This issue can render the vehicle cannot be used, causing significant inconvenience. Notably, when this fault occurs, workshops have reported that no relevant diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are stored, making a diagnosis difficult in the event of the fault.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Audi has identified the root cause of the sporadic engine start issue as a software problem within the Data Bus On Board Diagnostic Interface, specifically the J533 control unit (address word 0019). This software anomaly prevents the engine from starting reliably.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued specific guidance regarding this condition:

• Do not replace any components for this condition since this will not resolve the customer's concern. Replacing parts like the starter or battery will not fix the underlying software issue.
• A permanent solution, in the form of a software update, is expected to be available by the end of the 4th quarter of 2024. Audi advises that no repairs are necessary at this point beyond the temporary workaround.

Temporary Workaround for Owners

If your 2024 Audi S3 engine does not start sporadically, you can attempt the following steps to temporarily resolve the issue and start your vehicle:

1. Engage Bus Sleep Mode: Lock your vehicle and allow it to remain locked for at least five minutes. This allows the vehicle's electrical systems to enter a low-power bus sleep mode.
2. Restart Attempt: After waiting for at least five minutes, unlock the vehicle and attempt to start the engine.
3. 12V Battery Reset (If Needed): If the engine still does not start after the above steps, perform a terminal 30 reset. This involves disconnecting the 12V battery for a short period and then reconnecting it.

Following these steps should restore functionality, allowing you to use your vehicle normally until a permanent software update is available.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 90 PSS A3 MHEV, also identified as 90 24 39 2075824/1, indicates that a permanent fix will involve a software update. Software Version 2086 for the Data Bus On Board Diagnostic Interface, J533 (address word 0019) is anticipated to be available for vehicles produced from calendar week 35/2024 onwards. This update will address the underlying software issue that causes the Audi S3 engine does not start condition.

Dealers are instructed to create a PSS record in the PSS application for affected vehicles. The service number for this condition is 9035, with a damage code of 0039. Labor operations include Guided Functions (0150 0010, 0150 0060), checking vehicle bus sleep mode (0689 0199), and loosening and securing the earth strap (9785 0999).

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin provides guidance for addressing the issue. If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this bulletin serves as informational guidance. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11009955