2022-2023 Audi Brake Squeal Analysis TSB

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2051095/5, issued on February 22, 2022, provides comprehensive instructions for Audi technicians on how to utilize the Audi Frequency Analysis App. The primary goal is to accurately identify and analyze noise frequencies related to the brake system, particularly addressing customer concerns about Audi e-tron brake squeal and other models.

This bulletin supersedes previous versions, specifically Technical Service Bulletin Group 46 number 21-22 dated February 10, 2021, and earlier revisions. While the TSB itself covers all Audi models from 2010-2023, this article focuses on the 2022-2023 model years as linked by NHTSA.

Understanding Audi Brake Squeal

Brake squeal is a frequent concern reported by Audi owners. This bulletin clarifies that brake squeal is a normal outcome of various factors within the brake system and is not considered a defect. The purpose of the Audi Frequency Analysis App is to help technicians precisely identify the frequency of the noise. This data assists Audi of America in understanding the issue better and exploring potential solutions, such as new pad materials, pad geometry, or spring designs.

The Audi Frequency Analysis App

To effectively diagnose brake system noise, technicians are instructed to download and use the Audi Frequency Analysis App. This application allows for the recording and analysis of brake sounds, providing crucial data on their frequencies. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

How Technicians Use the App

Technicians must first download the Audi Frequency Analysis App from the Audi B2B App Shop. This involves signing in with their Global (GeKo) User-ID and Password, then selecting the appropriate device type (iOS or Android).

Installation and Troubleshooting

• For iOS Devices: If an iPhone displays an "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" error message, technicians must navigate to Phone Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management > Enterprise APP > Audi AG and select "Trust Audi AG" to proceed with the installation.
• For Android Devices: If an Android phone shows a warning stating "This type of file can harm your device. Do you want to keep Waveform-release-1.9-sign.apk anyway?", technicians should select "OK" to continue the installation process.

Recording and Analyzing Brake Noise

Once installed, the app allows technicians to record brake squeal either from inside or outside the vehicle, depending on the specific conditions. The main screen of the app provides options to "Record" (Aufnehmen), "Play" (Abspielen), "Cut" (Schneiden), and "Export" (Exportieren).

During recording, the app captures the sound and displays its frequency. Technicians can move a red scale within the app to pinpoint the main frequency causing the squeal. It's important to be aware that surrounding noises can sometimes obscure the primary frequency focus. The app also records the exact frequency and noise level in decibels (dB).

Exporting Data for Technical Assistance

To create an audio file from the app for attachment to a Technical Assistance Center (TAC) case, technicians need to perform the following steps:

1. Make a clear sound recording within the app.
2. Select the "More" icon after recording.
3. Choose the desired audio file from the file records.
4. Select "Exportieren" (Export) to send the file. This allows the data to be attached to the TAC case for further analysis and support regarding Audi e-tron brake squeal or other brake noise issues.

Important Considerations for Owners

This TSB is strictly informational and is not applicable to any Audi Warranty. Owners experiencing brake squeal should understand that while technicians can use this tool to analyze the noise, brake squeal itself is considered a normal characteristic of the brake system and not a defect requiring warranty repair. If you are concerned about Audi e-tron brake squeal or other brake noises, your Audi service center can use this diagnostic tool to provide an analysis.

Revision History

• Revision 5 (February 22, 2022): Revised header, added model year.
• Revision 4 (February 10, 2021): Revised header, added model year.
• Revision 3 (March 14, 2019): Revised header, added model year, revised service instructions, added Step 12.

Source: NHTSA ID 10208458