Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Telematics, technical features
Telematics is an in-vehicle communication system that uses cellular, internet and Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies to provide the customer with safety, security and convenience services.
GPS is a "constellation" of 24 satellites that orbit the earth and constantly broadcast radio signals. The Telematics/Telephone Control Module receives GPS data, decodes it, and transmits the vehicle's location to the service provider's call center via the national cellular network.
Telematics services for Audi customers are provided by OnStar(R) via a dedicated call center. Service plans may provide route directions and concierge services as well as emergency or vehicle repair services. For details, see AUDI TELEMATICS BY ONSTAR(R) Owner's Manual.
During events where the Airbag Control Module processes a crash signal, the vehicle emergency flashers are activated and the doors are unlocked via the respective door control modules. In addition, the telematics system automatically places an emergency call to the OnStar(R) call center.
Telematics hardware includes the driver operated telematics control head (which contains the OnStar(R) control buttons and system status light), microphone, backup loudspeaker, roof-mounted GPS/Cellular antenna, Telematics/Telephone Control Module (with supporting software) and related wiring.
An emergency (back-up) battery for the telematics control module is also used in case the vehicle battery goes dead or becomes disconnected due to accident, impact etc..
All telematics components are factory installed/integrated into the vehicle electrical system.
Telematics system - Sedan, component overview, see TELEMATIC SYSTEM (SEDAN), COMPONENT OVERVIEW .
Telematics system - Sedan, layout, see TELEMATIC SYSTEM (SEDAN), LAYOUT .
Telematics system - Avant, component overview, see TELEMATIC SYSTEM (AVANT), COMPONENT OVERVIEW .
Telematics system - Avant, layout, see TELEMATIC SYSTEM (AVANT), LAYOUT .
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.