2021 AUDI A8 ECU

4N0012721BF
High-voltage system

> To activate timer charging, select s= until Tim-
er charging mode is displayed.
If the set departure time on the timer is too
close, it may not be possible to charge the vehicle
fully.
@) Tips
It is not possible to charge using the timer at
some charging stations.
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive
In case of malfunction, you can manually release
the charging port door or the charging connec-
tor.

Fig. 101 Left side of luggage compartment: emergency re-
lease cover



Fig. 102 Left side of the luggage compartment: emergen-
cy release
Manually releasing the charging port door
> Open the luggage compartment lid.
» Remove the screwdriver from the vehicle tool
kit > page 317 and pry off the cover > fig. 101.
> Loosen the red loop @ © fig. 102 from the re-
tainer and then pull on the loop carefully >@.
> To open the charging port door, press on the
right side of the door > page 134, fig. 99.
> After releasing manually, secure the loop on
the retainer and close the cover.
> Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Audi Service Facility immediately to have
the malfunction corrected.
Manually releasing the charging connector
If you are not able to pull the charging connector
out of the vehicle charging port, there may bea
malfunction. You must use the emergency re-
lease to release the vehicle charging connector.
Requirement: the “P” gear must be selected and
the vehicle must be unlocked.
> End the charging process > page 135.
> Open the luggage compartment lid.
» Remove the screwdriver from the vehicle tool
kit > page 317 and pry off the cover > fig. 101.
> Carefully pull on the red loop @) > fig. 102
2©.
» Remove the charging connector.
> Close the emergency release cover.
> Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Audi Service Facility immediately to have
the malfunction corrected.
If the charging connector still cannot be removed
after using the emergency release, see an author-
ized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facili-
ty for assistance.
(@) Note
Only pull on the loop until you feel resistance.
You will not hear it release. If you continue to
pull, you could damage the emergency re-
lease mechanism.
Messages
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive
If the & indicator light turns on, then the range
is low or very low. Charge the high-voltage bat-
tery.
B AC charging system: malfunction! Please
contact Service
This message appears if there is a malfunction in
the charging system. Drive to an authorized Audi >
137

High-voltage system

dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility immedi-
ately.
Incompatible charging system. Please check
charging system
This message appears when the charging system
is incompatible. Only charge using the Audi
charging system that is designed for your vehicle.
is Charging system: malfunction
This message appears if there is a malfunction in
the vehicle charging infrastructure or the charg-
ing station. Use a different charging station. If
this message does not turn off, contact an au-
thorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service
Facility.
Charging equipment
Introduction
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the Audi e-
tron compact charging system may be available.
Using the charging equipment
Pay attention to the following information for
safe handling of the charging equipment:
— Secure the charging equipment against any
strain, such as being run over, falling, pulling,
bending, and crushing.
— Do not submerge the charging equipment in
water and do not cover it with snow or ice.
— When you remove the charging cable from the
vehicle and from the power supply, only pull at
the connectors and not at the cable.
— Put the cap on after using the charging cable.
— Only operate the Audi charging system ina
power supply system with a frequency of
50 Hz/60 Hz.
— Only operate or store the Audi charging system
at a humidity level between 5% and 95% (no
condensation).
— The Audi charging system is protected against
dust and splashing water (IP55 (USA: Enclosure
3).
Depending on the country, different warnings
may be on the charging equipment.
138

Symbol Meaning

Operate or store the Audi charging
system at a temperature range of
-22 °F (-30 °C) to +122 °F (+50 °C).

Operate or store the Audi charging
system at a temperature range of
“22 °F (30°C) to +122 °F (+50 °C).

Operate or store the Audi charging
system at a maximum elevation of
13,000 feet (4,000 m) above sea
level.

g 3
Operate or store the Audi charging
system at a maximum elevation of
16,400 feet (5,000 m) above sea
level.

The Audi charging system is not


equipped with a connected ground
conductor.
The Audi charging system is equip-
LW ped with a connected ground con-
ductor.


&
Do not operate the Audi charging
system in power networks that are
not grounded (such as IT networks).
Only operate the Audi charging sys-
tem in grounded power networks.


Surfaces can become very hot when
in direct sunlight.


Incorrect use increases the risk of
electric shock.


Pay attention to the applicable own-
er's manual, particularly the safety
precautions.

Pay attention to all applicable dis-
posal regulations when disposing.

kx
Berl
pep

Do not use any extensions cords or
cable reels.

4N0012721BF
High-voltage system


Meaning

Do not use any travel adapters.

Do not use any power strips.

, Do not use any charging cables with
oo, damage to the electronics or the
connecting wires.

Operate the Audi charging system

in single-phase power supplies.

Grounding instructions
Audi charging systems must be grounded. If it
should malfunction or break down, grounding
provides a path of least resistance for electric
current to reduce the risk of electric shock. Audi
charging systems are equipped with a cord hav-
ing an equipment grounding conductor anda
grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into
an appropriate outlet that is properly installed
and grounded in accordance with all local codes
and ordinances.

Z\ WARNING
Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor is able to result in a risk
of electric shock. Check with a qualified elec-
trician or serviceman if you are in doubt as to
whether the product is properly grounded. Do
not modify the plug provided with the product
— if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper out-

let installed by a qualified electrician.
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive




Fig. 103 Luggage compartment: storage compartment
Always store the charging equipment securely
before transporting.
> Open the luggage compartment lid > page 48.
> Open the storage compartment in the luggage
compartment > fig. 103.
>» Stow the charging equipment in the storage
compartment.
> Close the storage compartment and the lug-
gage compartment lid.

ZA WARNING
If the charging equipment is not secured or
positioned correctly, it can slide out of place
and endanger vehicle occupants when brak-
ing, when changing directions, or in a colli-
sion.
— Only transport charging equipment in the
transport bag in the luggage compartment
and never unsecured or in the passenger
compartment.
@) Note
Always lift or carry the Audi charging system
as one unit and never by the cables.


139

High-voltage system

Audi e-tron compact charging system
Applies to: vehicles with Audi e-tron compact charging system

a oho


RAZ-0726}


Fig. 104 Audi e-tron compact charging system: compo-
nents (example)
Observe the safety precautions > page 132, Im-
portant safety precautions.
The Audi e-tron compact charging system can be
used for charging with a household or industrial
socket. Depending on the country and the vehicle
equipment, the following accessories may be
available:
@ Control unit
@ Vehicle cable with vehicle charging connector
@) Power cable with power plug for household
sockets
@ Power cable with power plug for industrial
sockets
The vehicle cable is securely connected to the
control unit. The power cable is plugged into the
upper end of the control unit and can be switched
=>page 145.
Control unit overview

© | On/Off button @, charging power lev-
el and LED
© _ |Status LED:
a Power supply/household
connection
& | Vehicle
0 Control panel
@ 9
Charging




Reset

Note the instructions for charging > page 134.
140
Fig. 105 Audi e-tron compact charging system: control
unit
Requirement: the correct power plug must be in-
stalled > page 145.
— Insert the plug into the socket.
— Plug the vehicle charging connector into the ve-
hicle charging port.
— The charging process e will start automatically.
— Once the charging process has completed, un-
lock the vehicle and remove the vehicle charg-
ing connector from the vehicle charging port.
Adjusting the charging power level
The control unit automatically recognizes the
voltage and the available current strength. You
can set whether you would like to charge with full
or reduced charging power. The last setting that
was selected will be saved and used again the
next time the vehicle is charged. If multiple
items are connected to the power circuit, the
charging current may be reduced when charging
at a power outlet. This can help to prevent the
electrical equipment from overheating.
Before charging, always check if the charging
power setting that was selected last is still suita-
ble.
—To set the charging power level, press and hold
the ® button © © fig. 105 for at least two sec-
onds.
After the charging power level is set, the status
LEDs (, and [) will flash green one time. The
selected value (50% or 100%) is displayed on the
left or right side of the ® button.

4N0012721BF

High-voltage system

g or attac g the cable
icles with Audi charging system

Applies to:


B4G-0681 Nn?

— Only change cables in a dry environment.
— The Audi charging system may only be used
as a complete unit consisting of the power
cables, the control unit, and the vehicle ca-
ble. Depending on the country, the total
length of the power cable, control panel and
vehicle cable may be restricted, for example
to 24.6 feet (7.5 m) in the USA. Audi recom-



Fig. 106 Control unit: removing and attaching the cable
Requirements:
> The charging process for the high-voltage bat-
tery must be ended > page 135.
> The vehicle charging connector must be re-
moved from the vehicle charging port.
> The power cable must be removed from the
socket.
Loosening the cable
» If necessary, loosen the screw @) using the
screwdriver provided.
> Lift the lever @ all the way up.
> Pull the connector @) out just until you feel re-
sistance.
> Close the lever @ until it is resting on the con-
nector @).
» Remove the connector (2) completely.
Attaching the cable
> Lift the lever @ up slightly.
> Insert the connector (2) into the control unit
just until you feel resistance.
> Lift the lever @ all the way up.
> Insert the connector (2) all the way into the
control unit.
> Close the lever @).
> Tighten the screw @) using the screwdriver pro-
vided.

A WARNING
— Note the warnings for charging > A in
Charging on page 135.
— Before switching a cable, always unplug the
power cable from the socket.

mends using only cables approved by Audi.
Gi) Tips
The power cable with the power connector for
industrial sockets and the Audi charging sys-
tem control unit are designed to work togeth-
er. Changing the power cable to another con-
nector type may reduce the available charging
power of the entire system. Limitations on
the ability to transfer power (current capacity)
depending on the phase and the number of
available phases may affect the available
charging power.


Wall clip
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive and wall mount
clip

RAZ-0638,


Fig. 107 Wall mount clip: securing the Audi charging sys-
tem
Securing the Audi charging system
> First insert the control unit in the bottom tabs
on the wall mount clip and then into the upper
tabs.
> Push the control unit in the direction of the ar-
row toward the rear > fig. 107 and let it lock in-
to place.
> Wrap the excess length of cable around the
charging connector mount @) when you are not
charging the high-voltage battery.
145

>

4N0012721BF
Trailer towing

Trailer towing
Driving with a trailer
eT e e eeu)
Your vehicle is primarily intended for transport-
ing people and luggage. However, if you drive
with a trailer, follow the technical requirements,
the operation and driving tips, and the legal reg-
ulations.
Driving with a trailer affects the vehicle's energy
usage, performance, and wear. It also requires
higher concentration from the driver.

Z\ WARNING
Do not transport any people in a trailer due to
the risk of fatal injury.
Technical requirements
Trailer hitch

Only use a trailer hitch with a removable ball
hitch mount and ball hitch. The trailer hitch must
be permitted for the vehicle, the trailer and the
permitted total weight of the trailer being
pulled. Above all, it must be securely and safely
attached to the vehicle trailer.
Never mount a trailer hitch on the bumper. The
trailer hitch must be mounted in a way that does
not impair the function of the bumper. Do not
make any changes to the exhaust system and the
brake system.
Check regularly if the trailer hitch is securely
mounted. Always follow the instructions given by
the trailer hitch manufacturer.
Trailer brakes
If the trailer has its own brake system, then fol-
low the manufacturer specifications. However,
the brake system on the trailer must never be
connected to the vehicle brake system.
Engine cooling system
Driving with a trailer means a higher load on the
engine and the cooling system. The cooling sys-
tem must be designed for additional load and
contain enough coolant > @®.
CG) Note
Longer inclines cannot be driven without a
suitable cooling system, especially if the out-
side temperatures are high. Otherwise, this
increases the risk of engine damage.
Operating instructions
Towing capacity
Your vehicle can only be operated with class 1 or
class 2 trailers.
Load distribution
Poor cargo load and distribution can negatively
impact vehicle handling. Load the trailer based
on the following criteria as much as possible:
— Store objects in the vehicle luggage compart-
ment, if possible. The vehicle should always
carry the heaviest possible load and the trailer
should have the lightest possible load.
— Distribute the load in the trailer so that the
heavy objects are as close to the axle as possi-
ble.
— Secure objects so that they do not slide.
— Utilize the maximum permitted tongue weight
if possible.
Tires
Set the tire pressure on your vehicle for a “full
load”; see the tire pressure sticker > page 299. If
necessary, also adjust the tire pressure on the
trailer according to the manufacturer's specifica-
tions.
The trailer and the vehicle should be equipped
with winter tires when driving in winter tempera-
tures.
Outside mirrors
If you cannot see the traffic behind the trailer
with the standard exterior mirrors, then you
must attach additional exterior mirrors. Adjust
them so you have a sufficient visibility behind
you.
Exterior lighting
Follow the legal regulations for lighting on your
trailer that are applicable in the country where
147
>

4N0012721BF
Trailer towing

Hill
When you start driving uphill or downhill, trailers
may tilt or sway sooner than when driving ona
level surface. If small swaying movements have
already occurred, you can stabilize the trailer by
firmly braking immediately. Never attempt to
“straighten out” the trailer by accelerating.
Conventional drive system: Downshift before
driving on hills to utilize the engine braking ef-
fect SA.
Plug-in hybrid drive system: Reduce the speed
and use the recuperation braking effect
=> page 114 to relieve the brakes > A.
Brakes
When using a trailer with overrun brakes, first
brake gently then quickly. This reduces the risk of
jerking while braking if the trailer wheels lock up.
Engine coolant temperature
Pay attention specifically to the coolant tempera-
ture display when there are high outside temper-
atures, and when driving on long inclines
=> page 14. Shift to a higher gear in a timely man-
ner.

Z\ WARNING
Constant braking causes the brakes to over-
heat and can substantially reduce braking per-
formance, increase braking distance, or cause
complete failure of the brake system.

149

Assist systems

Assist systems
General information
SP ae eel idol ay

ZA WARNING
— As the driver, you are always completely re-
sponsible for all driving tasks. The assist
systems cannot replace the driver's atten-
tion. Give your full attention to driving the
vehicle, and be ready to intervene in the
traffic situation at all times.
— Activate the assist systems only if the sur-
rounding conditions permit it. Always adapt
your driving style to the current visual,
weather, road, and traffic conditions.
— Loose objects can be thrown around the ve-
hicle interior during sudden driving or brak-
ing maneuvers, which increases the risk of
an accident. Store objects securely while
driving.
— For the assist systems to be able to react
correctly, the function of the sensors and
cameras must not be restricted. Note the in-
formation on sensors and cameras
> page 151.

@ Tips
— Pay attention to applicable local regulations
relating to driving tasks, leaving space for
emergency vehicles, vehicle distance, speed,
parking location, wheel placement, etc. The
driver is always responsible for following
the laws that are applicable in the location
where the vehicle is being operated.
— You can cancel a steering or braking inter-
vention by the system, by braking or accel-
erating noticeably, steering, or deactivating
the respective assist system.
— Always check the assist systems settings be-
fore driving. The settings could have been
changed, for example by other drivers or by
using another user.
150
System limitations
ZA\ WARNING
—The use of an assist system cannot over-
come the natural laws of physics. A collision
cannot be prevented in certain circumstan-
ces.
— Warnings, messages, or indicator lights may
not be displayed or initiated on time or cor-
rectly, for example, if vehicles are approach-
ing very fast.
— Corrective interventions by the assist sys-
tems, such as steering or braking interven-
tions, may not be sufficient or they may not
occur. Always be ready to intervene.
G) Tips
— Due to the system limitations when detect-
ing the surrounding area, the systems may
warn or intervene unexpectedly or too late
in certain situations. The assist systems may
also interpret a driving maneuver incorrectly
and then warn the driver unexpectedly.
— The systems may not function as expected
in unusual driving situations, such as driving
offroad, on unpaved roads, on loose ground,
on inclines, or on grooves in the road.



— The systems may not function correctly in
unclear traffic situations, such as turning
lanes, exit ramps, construction zones, rises
or dips that obstruct visibility, intersections,
toll stations, or city traffic.
— The detection of the surrounding area can
be limited, for example by vehicles driving
ahead or by rain, snow, heavy spray, or light
shining into the camera.
— The steering wheel touch recognition may
be limited when you wear gloves. Steering
intervention requests from the steering as-
sist systems may occur more frequently.
— If accessories have been mounted on the
steering wheel, the steering assist systems
may
be limited. The frequency of steering
intervention requests from the steering as-
sist systems may vary as well.