2021-2022 Audi e-tron AC Compressor Noise TSB

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi e-tron vehicles may experience a noticeable noise coming from the air conditioning system when it is active. This issue, detailed in Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 87 22 20 2063467/2, describes a specific condition where the AC compressor's operation leads to an audible cabin noise.

This bulletin, issued on March 21, 2022, supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 87 number 21-14 dated May 28, 2021, to include additional model years and revised header information. The primary concern is an Audi e-tron AC noise that disappears when the air conditioning system is turned off.

Symptoms

Owners typically report a distinct noise within the cabin when the air conditioning system is running, especially when the AC compressor is active. This Audi e-tron AC noise is consistently present under these conditions and stops immediately when the AC is deactivated. The symptom is easily reproducible.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Upon investigation, technicians can readily reproduce the noise. The source of the noise has been confirmed not to originate from inside the vehicle's cabin. Instead, the technical background indicates that the noise stems from direct contact between two refrigerant lines in the engine bay.

When the air conditioning compressor operates, it generates vibrations. These vibrations are then transferred into the cabin due to the physical contact between the refrigerant lines. Figures 1, 2, and 3 in the TSB illustrate the refrigerant lines making contact and provide a close-up view of the exact contact point.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves separating the contacting refrigerant lines and securing them to prevent future contact. Technicians will need to access the area in the motor bay where the lines are located, as shown in Figure 4 of the bulletin.

The procedure requires the removal and reinstallation of the front storage compartment to gain access. Once the lines are separated, they must be retained in a separated state using a hose holder, clip, or tie-wrap. Figure 5 demonstrates how properly separated refrigerant lines should appear after the repair.

Required Tools or Parts

While no specific part numbers are listed for the hose holder, clip, or tie-wrap, these items will be necessary to secure the refrigerant lines. Technicians should consult their Parts Department and ETKA for the latest information and part bulletins. Additionally, the Repair Manual should be referenced for any fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that may require replacement during the repair.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under warranty for eligible vehicles:

• Claim Type 110: Up to 48 months or 50,000 miles.
• Claim Type G10: For CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) covered vehicles, owners should verify their coverage.

Labor operations include Service Number 8744 and Damage Code 0020. The labor operation for