2021-2024 Audi A4, A5, A6, Q5 Drive Belt Noise TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2061461/11 to address concerns regarding the starter/generator drive belt and poly V-belt in various 2021-2024 Audi models. Owners may experience a distinct Audi drive belt noise from the engine compartment or a specific warning message on their driver information system.

This TSB, superseding Group 13 number 24-25 dated July 16, 2024, outlines the conditions, diagnosis, and repair procedures for these issues. It is crucial for owners to understand the symptoms and the recommended actions to resolve the Audi drive belt noise and related problems.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice one or both of the following conditions:

• A grinding, squeaking, or tweeting noise originating from the engine compartment.
• A message displayed in the driver information system (DIS) that reads: "Electrical system: Malfunction! Please go to workshop". This message typically appears if the poly V-belt has fallen off.

Workshop findings confirm that these noises often stem from the poly V-belt, also known as the alternator belt.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi has provided specific warnings within TSB 2061461/11 to ensure proper diagnosis and repair:

• If a new belt tensioner has already been installed, technicians should not replace it again during the repair process for either noise or a damaged/fallen off belt.
• Replacing the belt-driven starter-generator will not fix the problem related to the drive belt noise or poly V-belt issues.
• Technicians are advised to ensure that the belt tensioner (including its retaining tab) is not damaged during removal. Damage to this component could prevent proper analysis of the parts, and in such cases, Audi may charge back the damaged parts.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the source of the Audi drive belt noise involves a few steps:

1. The engine should be run at idle speed to assess the noise. Audi provides a video example for reference.
2. To confirm the noise source, a small amount of tap water can be sprayed onto the inside of the poly V-belt using a spray bottle. If the noise disappears after spraying, it confirms the poly V-belt as the source.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 2061461/11 depends on the specific scenario:

Scenario 1: Grinding, Squeaking, or Tweeting Noises

If the noise disappears after spraying water on the poly V-belt, both the poly V-belt and the belt tensioner should be replaced. As noted, if the belt tensioner is already new, it should not be replaced again.

Scenario 2: Poly V-belt Damaged or Fallen Off

In cases where the poly V-belt is damaged or has fallen off the wheel roller, both the belt tensioner and the poly V-belt must be replaced. Again, if the belt tensioner is already new, it should not be replaced.

After replacing the poly V-belt and tensioner, it is crucial to check for correct belt running alignment. The engine should be run at idle speed, and the belt must not protrude forward or backward over the roller edge of the tensioner.

Required Parts and Tools

For the repair, the following parts are generally required:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual (refer to ETKA/ELSA).
• Belt Tensioner: One unit (refer to ETKA for specific part number).
• Poly-V Belt: One unit (refer to ETKA for specific part number).

Always consult with your Audi Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and specific part numbers.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin 2061461/11 is informational only if the vehicle is outside of its warranty period. For in-warranty repairs, the following details apply:

• Service Number: 1373
• Damage Codes: 0020 (for a noisy belt) and 0015 (for a belt that came off).
• Labor Operations: Specific labor codes are provided for ribbed belt removal and installation (1372 19XX), belt tension damper removal and installation (1373 19XX), and checking poly V-belt run alignment (1372 0199).

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11009321