2018-2023 Audi Front Suspension Noise TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2059474/3 to address customer complaints of rumbling or squeaking noises originating from the front suspension of various 2018-2023 Audi models. This bulletin, issued on January 4, 2022, supersedes an earlier TSB (Group 40 number 20-13 dated July 20, 2020) and provides updated instructions for diagnosis and repair.

Symptoms

Owners may notice the following symptoms related to this issue:

• "Rumbling or squeaking noises from the front end."

These sounds are typically heard when driving, indicating a problem within the front suspension system.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop technicians have identified that the primary cause of the front suspension noise is the buffer stops of the shock absorbers. These components are found not to be correctly seated within their mountings, as illustrated in Figure 1 of the original bulletin, which shows the shock absorbers sitting incorrectly.

Technical Background

According to Audi, recent improvements in suspension design included changes to the material and hardness of the buffer stops. This design modification has made it more challenging to properly press the buffer stops into their mountings during assembly, leading to the incorrect seating that causes the noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi e-tron suspension noise or similar issues in other models involves a straightforward procedure for technicians:

1. Secure Buffer Stops: Technicians must ensure the buffer stops are correctly secured. A tire assembly paste can be used as an aid to facilitate this process, and it's crucial that the buffer stops are completely pressed into place.
2. Reshape or Replace: If the buffer stops were deformed, potentially during vehicle transport, technicians should attempt to reshape them by warming them up slightly. If reshaping is not possible, the affected buffer stops must be replaced.

This procedure aims to resolve the rumbling or squeaking noises by ensuring the buffer stops are properly seated.

Required Tools or Parts

For this repair, technicians will need to consult the Electronic Parts Catalog (ETKA) for specific part numbers. This includes:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual, referenced via ETKA/ELSA.
• Buffer Stop: If replacement is necessary, 01 or 02 buffer stops may be required, referenced via ETKA.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty program for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The specific claim type is 110. The service number for this bulletin is 4098, and the damage code is 0020. Various labor operations are specified depending on whether one or two buffer stops are removed and reinstalled or secured, with associated labor times (e.g., 4098 1950, 4098 2050).

Diagnostic time includes a road test prior to the service procedure (0121 0002 - 10 TU) and a road test after (0121 0004 - 10 TU). All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware that if their vehicle is outside of the specified warranty period (48 months or 50,000 miles), this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. The repair may not be covered by Audi and would be at the owner's expense.