2021 Audi e-tron Grinding Noise with Steering at Full Lock

Symptoms

Owners of the 2021 Audi e-tron may notice a distinct grinding or rubbing sound coming from the front wheels. This noise specifically occurs when the steering wheel is turned to its full lock position and the vehicle is moving. The sound typically disappears once the steering angle is straightened.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that the front wheel housing liner backing can weaken and 'sag' over time. When this happens, the liner can intrude into the path of a rotating front tire, especially when the wheels are turned to full lock. This interference between the tire and the sagging liner is what creates the grinding or rubbing noise. The issue has been addressed in production with an improved design for the front wheel housing liner in areas prone to this 'sag' characteristic.

Repair Procedure Summary

If your 2021 Audi e-tron exhibits the grinding noise when the steering is at full lock, a technician will first verify the symptom. If the front wheel housing liner(s) are found to be interfering with the tire, the recommended repair is to replace the affected liner(s). The process involves removing the old liner and installing a new, improved version. This procedure is designed to eliminate the contact between the tire and the liner, resolving the grinding noise.

Required Parts

To address the 2021 Audi e-tron grinding noise, specific replacement parts are required. Technicians should use the following part numbers, which supersede any older numbers listed in ETKA:

• 4KE 821 171 C: Left front wheel housing liner (Quantity: 01)
• 4KE 821 172 C: Right front wheel housing liner (Quantity: 01)

Additionally, any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws should be obtained according to the repair manual, typically referenced via ETKA/ELSA.

Warranty Information

This repair for the 2021 Audi e-tron grinding noise is covered under warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. If your vehicle is outside this warranty period, the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) serves as informational guidance only, and the repair cost may not be covered.

When submitting a warranty claim, the following details are relevant:

• Service Number: 6616
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Front wheel housing liner remove and reinstall: 6616 1900
  • Front wheel housing liners remove and reinstall: 6616 2000
• Diagnostic Time: Road test prior to service (0121 0002, 10 TU), Road test after service (0121 0004, 10 TU)
• Claim Comment: As per TSB #2062700/1

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

Owner Action

If you own a 2021 Audi e-tron and experience a grinding or rubbing noise when turning the steering wheel to full lock, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Describe the symptoms clearly to the service advisor. The technicians will diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repair by replacing the front wheel housing liner(s) as outlined in TSB 2062700/1.

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NHTSA ID: 10189530