NHTSA ID Number: 10185255
Manufacturer Communication Number: Bulletin 13H3
TSB/Document Date: 2021-01-08
Summary
The engine may not run smoothly due to a non-optimal control of the camshaft adjuster during specific operating conditions. In rare cases, the engine may even stop running under these conditions. However, it is possible to restart the engine at any time afterwards. Internal research has shown that the issue can only occur when the engine is idling (i.e. when the vehicle is stationary or just before the vehicle comes to a stop).
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TSB/Document ID: Bulletin 13H3
Replacement Service Bulletin Number:
MFR Communication Date: 2020-12-01
MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:
Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NHTSA Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
MFR Component System:
MFR Component Subsystem:
Previous TSB | Next TSB |
Release Date
Technical Service Bulletin
12/01/2020
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
Applicable Vehicles
Country
Beginning Model Year
Ending Model Year
Vehicle
Vehicle Count
USA
CAN
2019
2020
2021
2020
A6
A6
6,707
29
Revision History
Revision
Date
Purpose
1
12/01/2020
Original publication
Condition/Technical Background
This Update has been proactively released to prevent the following condition(s) from occurring in the vehicle:
Criteria
Technical Background
01
The engine may not run smoothly due to a non-optimal control of the camshaft adjuster during specific
operating conditions. In rare cases, the engine may even stop running under these conditions. However, it
is possible to restart the engine at any time afterwards. Internal research has shown that the issue can only
occur when the engine is idling (i.e. when the vehicle is stationary or just before the vehicle comes to a
stop).
Remedy
Criteria
01
Remedy
Update engine control module software
This Update is in effect until removed.
Vehicle must meet all of the following criteria:
• Procedure is valid only for vehicles that show the 13H3 code in the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen
on the day of repair.
• Vehicle must be within the Federal Emissions Warranty.
• Procedure must be performed within the allotted time frame stated in this Technical Service Bulletin.
• Procedure must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi
dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 1 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
Service
NOTE:
•
Elsa is the only valid inquiry/verification source. Check Elsa on the day this vehicle UPDATE will be
performed to verify vehicle eligibility for the UPDATE. Status must show “open”. Attach an Elsa printout
showing the “open” status to the repair order.
•
If this UPDATE appears to have already been performed but the code still shows open in Elsa, contact
Warranty before proceeding further. Another dealer may have recently performed this UPDATE but not
yet entered a claim for it in the system.
•
Elsa may also show additional open action(s); if so, inform your customer - this work can be done while
the vehicle is in for this UPDATE.
•
Contact the Warranty Helpline (U.S.) or the Warranty Campaign Specialist (Canada) if you have any
questions.
•
Enter the VIN in Elsa and proceed to the
“Campaign/Action” screen.
TIP
On the date of repair, print this screen and keep a
copy with the repair order.
•
Confirm the Campaign/Action is open . If the status is closed, no further work is
required.
•
Note the Applicable Criteria ID for
use in determining the correct work to be done
and corresponding parts associated.
CRITICAL REPAIR STEP
STOP!
If multiple software update Campaign/Actions are
open, they must be performed in order of the Start
date . The oldest should be performed
first.
•
All Safety Recalls must be completed prior
to completing this campaign.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 2 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
SVM Update Instructions
NOTE
Prior to launching the VAS Diagnostic Tester and starting an update, ensure the following conditions are met;
The ODIS software is completely up to date.
•
Refer to the “Alerts” section on ServiceNet home page for the current ODIS version.
The battery charger is connected to the vehicle battery and remains connected for the duration of the
software update.
•
Battery voltage must remain above 12.5 volts for the duration of the software update. Failure to
do so may cause the update to fail, which could result in damage to the control module. Control
modules damaged by insufficient voltage will not be covered.
The screen saver and power saving settings are off.
•
Failure to do so may result in the tester entering power save mode during the software update,
which could result in damage to the control module.
The VAS Diagnostic Tester is plugged in using the supplied power adapters.
•
Under no circumstances should the tester be used on battery power alone during the software
update. Failure to do so may result in the tester powering off during the update, which could result
in damage to the control module.
Flash process through “Audi Flashing” not Guided Fault Finding (GFF).
•
DO NOT USE Guided Fault Finding (GFF) to perform this flash. Using GFF will cause the flash
to take longer. Requests for additional time will not be considered.
The VAS Diagnostics Interface MUST ONLY be connected to the tester with a USB cable.
•
Performing a software update using a Bluetooth or WiFi connection increases the risk of losing
connection during the update, which could result in damage to the control module.
It also greatly increases the time required to perform the update. Requests for additional time or
parts will be denied if the GFF log shows the update was performed using Bluetooth or WiFi.
TIP
As a best practice, customer presets should be documented prior to performing any update in the event these
settings are lost during the update.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 3 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
NOTE
•
All campaign software updates must be completed during a single, standalone ODIS Diagnostic Session.
You must fully complete this campaign and send all logs before beginning any other campaigns or
operations.
•
If there are any ODIS “Hot-Fix” patches installed, they must be removed from the scan tool before
beginning this operation. ODIS “Hot-Fix” patches may affect the update process.
WARNING
Radiator Fan(s) may cycle ON high speed during the Update Process! There is a serious risk that personal injury
may result if contact is made with spinning fan blades. Keep hands and all objects away from Radiator Fan(s)
during Update Process!
TIP
To Update-Programming using SVM, review and follow instructions in Technical Bulletin 2014603: Software
Version Management (SVM) Operating Instructions.
The SVM Process must be completed in its entirety so the database receives the update confirmation response.
A warranty claim may not be reimbursed if there is no confirmation response to support the claim.
•
Open the hood.
•
Open the battery cover.
•
Attach the GRX3000VAS Tester/Charger (or
equivalent) IN POWER SUPPLY MODE to
the vehicle battery or underhood charging
posts.
NOTE
When connecting the charger directly to the battery,
connect the positive cable to the positive terminal of
the battery and connect the negative cable to the
grounding lug on the chassis. DO NOT connect the
ground cable directly to negative terminal of the
battery.
•
Switch on the hazard warning lights.
CAUTION
The procedure may cancel itself if the hazard
warning lights are not switched on. The hazard
warning lights prevent the system from switching to
bus sleep mode during the update.
•
Connect
the
VAS6150X/VAS6160X
Diagnostic Tester to the vehicle.
•
Start the ODIS program.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 4 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
•
Confirm that scan tool is communicating with
the diagnostic head by USB cable.
o
If the Bluetooth or WiFi symbol is
shown,
then
disconnect
the
diagnostic head from the vehicle and
reconnect the USB cable to the
diagnostic head and then reattach to
the vehicle.
•
From the home screen of the scan tool
highlight “Flash” .
•
Follow the on-screen prompts.
NOTE
Operating mode “Flash” must be used. Performing
this software update using “Diagnosis” (Guided
Fault Finding) could result in non-payment of the
claim.
•
Select “Starting Flashing” and follow the onscreen prompts.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 5 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
•
Select “No RO”.
•
Highlight “SVM – Code Input”.
•
Select “Perform test”.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 6 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
NOTE
Using Bluetooth or WiFi for this action is
PROHIBITED!
Damage caused to electronic components (e.g.
ECM, TCM, etc.) during the SVM flash process is
not covered.
•
Enter the corrective action code (SVM code)
as listed below.
SVM code
13H3A072
•
Select “Accept” .
•
Follow the on-screen prompts.
•
After receiving confirmation that the flash
completed successfully, select “Send”
to send the diagnostic protocol
online.
•
Follow the on-screen prompts.
•
Click “Flash” to exit the flash session.
TIP
Various event memory entries may be generated
after the flashing procedure on some vehicles. Put
the vehicle in a corresponding bus sleep mode
after performing the update in order to clear the
faults.
To put the vehicle in bus sleep mode, disconnect
the diagnostic tester, remove the key from the
vehicle and lock the vehicle with the remote for 5
minutes.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 7 of 10
Release Date
12/01/2020
Technical Service Bulletin
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
NOTE
•
If the message shown is displayed on the
instrument cluster after the flash and it was not
present prior to the flash, the adaptation
channel for the start/stop activation may have
to be changed from inactive to active.
•
To change the adaptation channel, use
Diagnosis Mode OBD and
change the
adaptation channel, “Activation of start/stop
function [$0927]” from “not active” to “active”.
•
The adaptation will also change on its own after
the vehicle is driven for 50 km (~32 miles).
However, the message in the cluster might not
disappear until the ignition is cycled after the
vehicle has been driven for 50 km (~32 miles).
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 8 of 10
Release Date
Technical Service Bulletin
12/01/2020
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
Warranty
Claim Entry Instructions
After Update has been completed, enter claim as soon as possible to help prevent work from being duplicated
elsewhere. Attach the Elsa screen print showing action open on the day of repair to the repair order.
If customer refused campaign work or vehicle is out of the specified warranty parameter for this Update:
U.S. dealers: Submit the request through Audi Warranty Online under the Campaigns/Update option.
Canada dealers: Upload the repair order to Audi WIN/Operations/Campaign Closure.
Service Number
13H3
Damage Code
0099
Parts Vendor Code
Claim Type
002
Sold vehicle: 7 10
Unsold vehicle: 7 90
Causal Indicator
Vehicle Wash/Loaner
Criteria I.D.
Mark labor as causal
Do not claim wash/loaner under this action
01
LABOR
Labor Op
Time Units
Description
2706 89 50
10
Connect battery charger
2470 25 99
Time stated on
diagnostic protocol
Update engine control module software
Additional Actions Some of the affected vehicles may be involved in additional Actions. Please check your
Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen so that any additional required work can be
done simultaneously.
Verifying Vehicle
Eligibility
To verify vehicle eligibility for this Update, always check the Elsa Campaign/Action
Information screen. The Elsa system is the only binding inquiry and verification system;
other systems are not valid and may result in non-payment of a claim.
Help for Claim
Entry
For questions regarding claim entry, contact Audi Warranty.
Required
Customer
Notification
Inform your customer in writing by recording on the Repair Order any and all work that
was conducted on the vehicle, including any and all updates completed under this Update.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 9 of 10
Release Date
Technical Service Bulletin
12/01/2020
13H3 UPDATE
ECM Software Update – (FED_EMS)
Required Special Tools
Battery Tester/Charger
Diagnostic Tester
- GRX3000VAS-
-VAS6150X/VAS6160X-
(or equivalent)
(or equivalent)
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this Update are subject to change and/or removal. Always check Elsa
for the most current version of this document.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Audi dealer. 2020 Audi of America, Inc and Audi Canada All Rights Reserved.
December 2020
13H3 Page 10 of 10
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