Audi Software Recall Updates: MMI, ECU & Safety System Patch Guides
You hop in your Audi, press the start button, and instead of your familiar virtual cockpit, you’re greeted by a blank screen. No speedometer, no warning lights—just blackness.
Software issues in modern Audis have become a growing concern. The sophisticated electronics that make these cars so advanced can also be their Achilles’ heel. But there’s good news—Audi has issued multiple software recalls and service campaigns to address these problems, and the fixes are free. Here’s what you need to know about the most important software updates for your Audi.
Here’s the quick TL;DR:
Audi has issued several major software recalls affecting instrument panels (recall 90VC), rearview cameras (recall 90TV), MMI rebooting issues (service campaign 91MM), and brake control units on Q4 e-tron models (recall 454R). Most fixes require a dealer visit for a software update, are performed free of charge, and typically take a few hours. Some MMI updates are complex and can take days to complete.
Key Takeaways
- Instrument Panel Failure (90VC): A software error in 2021 models can cause the virtual cockpit to go blank, losing critical driving information. Audi will update the instrument panel module software for free.
- Rearview Camera Issues (90TV): A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. This affects many 2019-2026 models, and the fix is a free software update at the dealer.
- MMI Rebooting (91MM): A widespread issue where the MMI system constantly reboots, often triggered by a SiriusXM broadcast change. Audi has issued a free Service Action to fix it.
- Brake Control Unit Software: Q4 e-tron models need an update to prevent incorrect gear indicators and potential rollaway risk. The Q4 also has a separate software recall for the same issue.
- Dealer Visit Required: Most of these fixes require taking your car to an authorized Audi dealer. They use a diagnostic computer to install the updates.
Major Software Recalls and Campaigns
1. Virtual Cockpit Failure (Recall 90VC)
This is one of the most significant software recalls Audi has issued recently.
The Problem:
A software error in the instrument panel can cause the display to fail or go blank while driving. Because of how the system monitors power flow, even a tiny fluctuation can shut down the entire display to protect against surges. When this happens, you lose access to your speedometer, warning lights, and other critical safety information .
The Danger:
Losing your speedometer, check engine light, or other warning indicators increases the risk of a crash .
Affected Models:
- 2021 Audi A6 Sedan, S6 Sedan, A6 Allroad
- 2021 Audi A7, S7, RS7
- 2021 Audi A8, S8
- 2021 Audi Q7, SQ7
- 2021 Audi Q8, SQ8, RSQ8
- 2021 Audi RS6 Avant
Number of Vehicles Affected: 44,387 in the US .
The Fix:
Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. The software update makes the system less sensitive to power fluctuations, so it won’t shut down the display, but it will trigger a warning notice to get the system checked out .
2. Rearview Camera Failure (Recall 90TV)
This recall expands on previous camera issues and affects a wide range of models.
The Problem:
A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. This means you might not see what’s behind you when backing up .
The Danger:
A missing rearview image reduces the driver’s view, increasing the risk of a crash . This is also a violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, “Rear Visibility” .
Affected Models:
A wide range of 2019-2026 models, including the 2023 e-tron GT .
Number of Vehicles Affected: Not specified in available sources.
The Fix:
Dealers will update the software free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026 .
3. MMI Rebooting and Crashing (Service Action 91MM)
This is a particularly frustrating problem that has affected many Audi owners.
The Problem:
The MMI (Multi-Media Interface) system constantly reboots or crashes, often triggered by a broadcast change from SiriusXM. Many owners reported their MMI restarting every 2-3 minutes, making it unusable .
The Affected Models:
Primarily 2020-2021 models with the MIB3 system, including the A4, A5, S5, and others .
The Fix:
Audi issued a Service Action (91MM) requiring dealers to perform a software update. One owner reported the update fixed the issue and their software version went from 3243 to 3696 . This update is free of charge.
Important Note on Reimbursement:
Some owners paid out of pocket for this fix before the service campaign was announced. Audi customer service may reimburse these costs if the vehicle is covered under the campaign, though this process varies by dealer and region. One owner noted: “Audi customer experience called to tell me that my car was not covered by the 91MM campaign” because the dealer applied a different TSB before the campaign was issued .
4. Brake Control Unit Software (Q4 e-tron, Recall 454R)
The Problem:
The brake control unit software may not correctly display the “N” (neutral) indicator in the instrument cluster. If you shift into neutral, the display might not show it, and you might not realize you need to apply the parking brake or shift into park .
The Danger:
The vehicle could roll away unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash or injuries .
Affected Models:
- 2022-2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron
- 2022-2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback
Number of Vehicles Affected: 13,769 in the US (combined with VW ID.4) .
The Fix:
Dealers will update the brake control unit software free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed in May 2025 .
5. Instrument Cluster Failure (Q4 e-tron)
The Problem:
A software error may cause the instrument cluster to fail to display the gear position (including neutral) correctly .
Affected Models:
2022-2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron and Q4 E-Tron Sportback .
The Fix:
Dealers will update the instrument cluster software free of charge. This recall is related to the brake control unit software issue mentioned above.
6. Virtual Cockpit Instrument Cluster Recall (A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, and More)
The Problem:
A software error in the virtual cockpit instrument cluster can cause the display to fail or reset while driving, potentially losing critical safety information .
Affected Models:
2021 Audi A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6, RS7, RSQ8, S6, S7, S8 .
The Fix:
Dealers will update the software free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed in April 2025 .
How to Check if Your Audi Needs a Software Update
- Check Your VIN: Enter your Vehicle Identification Number on Audi’s official recall portal or NHTSA’s website.
- Watch for Notices: Audi will mail recall and service campaign notices to affected owners.
- Contact Your Dealer: Call an authorized Audi service department with your VIN to check for open recalls or campaigns.
- Pay Attention to Symptoms: If your MMI reboots, your virtual cockpit goes blank, or your rearview camera fails, schedule a service appointment.
What to Expect at the Dealer
| Service | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Panel Update (90VC) | ~1 hour | Simple software flash |
| Rearview Camera Update (90TV) | ~1-2 hours | Software update |
| MMI Rebooting Fix (91MM) | ~1-2 hours | Service Action, not a recall |
| Brake Control Unit Update (454R) | ~1 hour | Software update for Q4 e-tron |
| Major MMI Update (e-tron GT) | 1-3 days | Complex update, may require overnight steps |
Important: Some MMI updates, especially on 2022-2023 e-tron GT models, are very complex. One owner reported the car was at the dealership for over two weeks while Audi Tech Support and the dealer worked through the process of rebuilding the software stack. Others reported it took 1.5 days .
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is my 2021 Audi affected by the virtual cockpit recall?
Possibly. The recall (90VC) affects 2021 models including A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6, RS7, RSQ8, S6, S7, and S8 . Check your VIN on Audi’s recall portal.
2. What is the Audi 91MM service campaign?
It’s a Service Action (91MM) to fix the MMI rebooting issue that affected many 2020-2021 models. It’s a free software update performed by dealers. It’s not technically a “recall” but a service campaign .
3. How do I know if my Audi has a software recall?
Check your VIN on Audi’s official recall website or NHTSA’s recall search. You can also contact your local Audi dealer.
4. Do I have to pay for an Audi software recall fix?
No. All recall repairs and most service campaigns are performed free of charge at authorized Audi dealers .
5. Can I update my Audi’s software myself?
Not for recall-related fixes. These updates require specialized diagnostic equipment (ODIS) and are performed by trained technicians. Some MMI updates are extremely complex and can take days .
6. My MMI keeps rebooting. What should I do?
Check if your vehicle is covered under Service Action 91MM. Contact your dealer and reference this campaign. They should perform the software update for free .
7. The rearview camera on my Audi doesn’t work sometimes. Is there a recall?
Yes. Recall 90TV covers a software error that prevents the rearview camera from displaying. Many 2019-2026 models are affected .
8. What about the diesel emissions software fix?
That’s an older recall for EA189 diesel engines, involving a software update (and sometimes hardware) to meet emissions standards. It’s free at dealers .
References
Trusted Resources for Audi Software Recall Information
Have you experienced any of these software issues with your Audi? What was your experience getting it fixed? Share your story in the comments below!
