2017-2025 Audi Quattro Droning Noises in Corners TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 39 24 76 2075681/2, issued on December 3, 2024. This bulletin supersedes the previous Technical Service Bulletin Group 39 number 24-75 dated October 21, 2024. TSB 2075681/2 provides guidance for diagnosing and resolving audible noises and vibrations originating from the drivetrain in various 2017-2025 Audi models equipped with PR number GH4, which denotes the quattro with ultra technology system.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may experience the following symptoms:

• "There are audible noises from the drive train (gearbox, drive shaft and/or rear final drive) when pulling away quickly from a standstill with the wheels turned."
• "Vibrations, humming, droning, or rubbing can be heard and/or felt in the vehicle interior and/or on the rear seats when the steering wheel is turned to full lock."

Technical Background

The root cause of these Audi Quattro droning noises and vibrations is attributed to the friction system of the four-wheel drive clutch. Over an extended period, the characteristics of this system may change, especially when the proportion of all-wheel drive use is consistently low. This alteration can lead to the described noise and vibration complaints.

Important Warnings for Service

Audi has issued several warnings to ensure safety and proper procedure during the diagnostic and repair process:

• Distracted Driving Risk: "Using application programs while driving can distract the driver from the road." Distraction can lead to accidents and injuries. Always observe road traffic regulations, which take priority over driving instructions. The program must always be performed with a second person operating the test equipment, and the test equipment must not distract the driver.
• Unsecured Test Equipment: "Danger due to the transportation of unsecured test equipment." Unsecured equipment or equipment in the range of airbags can cause injuries during maneuvers or in an accident. Ensure test equipment is properly secured and not transported in areas where airbags inflate. If possible, use the rear seat bench for test equipment. If no rear seat bench is available, keep it flat on the passenger's lap, with the passenger operating the equipment and the seat moved as far back as possible.
• Test Abort Condition: "If a speed of 11 km/h (~7 mph) is exceeded, the test will be automatically aborted." If this occurs, the frictional vibration test will need to be restarted.

Diagnostic and Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi Quattro droning noises, technicians must first reproduce the customer complaint. This involves driving the vehicle in a safe, cordoned-off area where it is possible to drive in circles with the steering wheel at full lock. The vehicle should be at operating temperature before parking it in the designated area.

1. ODIS Tester Connection: Connect the ODIS tester and expand the test plan by entering the reference number 2074883. Add the suggested test program "0022 – Function test of clutch for frictional vibration" to the test plan. It is crucial to "Do not search for the test plan via “Select self test.”" and instead follow instructions in the attached "TestPlanAssignment.pdf". The program "0022 - Function test of clutch for frictional vibration" is only available after expanding the test plan using reference number 2074883 in the TSB tab.
2. Test Program Execution: Start the test program "0022 – Function test of clutch for frictional vibration" and select "-1- Target torque 150 Nm".
3. Reproducing the Condition: With the engine idling and brakes applied, turn the steering wheel to full lock. Release the brakes and slowly increase speed up to a maximum of 10 km/h (6 mph). Continue driving in circles until the yellow warning lamp "Four-wheel drive overheating" illuminates and the test mode ends automatically. This process may take several minutes and might need to be repeated.
4. Confirmation and Completion: The procedure is complete once the event memory entry "C05DC00 4WD/AWD Clutch Temperature Too High" is logged in the all-wheel drive electronics and then erased. Technicians are required to provide the complete diagnostic log online.

To aid in assigning the noise/complaint, technicians are instructed to scan QR codes (Figures 1 and 2) provided in the TSB, which link to videos for reference.

Fault Codes / DTCs

During the diagnostic process, the following event memory entry is expected to be logged in the all-wheel drive electronics:

• C05DC00 4WD/AWD Clutch Temperature Too High

This entry indicates the condition that the service procedure aims to resolve.

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this service, identified by Service Number 3960 and Damage Code 0020, must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. If the vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, meaning the repair costs may not be covered.

Associated labor operations include:

• 3960 0399: Measure all-wheel drive clutch unit (four-wheel drive overheating) - 30 Time Units (TU)
• 0150 0060: GFF - Time stated on the diagnostic protocol
• 0121 0002: Road test prior to the service procedure - 10 TU
• 0121 0004: Road test after the service procedure - 10 TU
• 2706 8950: Charge battery - See SRT with associated operations

All part and service references, including TSB 2075681, are subject to change. Technicians should consult the Parts Department and ETKA for the latest information and the Repair Manual for fastener replacement guidelines.

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Source: NHTSA ID 10255555