2009-2024 Audi Steering Squeak TSB 2023187/7

Owners of Audi vehicles manufactured between 2009 and 2024 may notice a Audi steering squeak when turning the steering wheel or maneuvering. This common characteristic is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 40 23 51 2023187/7, issued on March 23, 2023. The TSB clarifies that these "squeaking noises when steering or maneuvering" are considered a normal operating condition and do not indicate a fault or require any repair.

Symptoms

If you own an Audi from model years 2009 through 2024, you might experience "squeaking noises when steering or maneuvering." These sounds are typically heard when the steering wheel is turned, and customers often report that the noises may be more prevalent in wet weather conditions. This Audi steering squeak is the primary symptom described in the bulletin.

Technical Background

Audi's technical explanation for the squeaking noises focuses on the design of the front axle shafts. Specifically, the folds of the outer rubber boots on these shafts can come into contact with each other when the steering wheel is turned. This friction between the rubber surfaces is what generates the squeaking sound. The TSB notes that these noises are more likely to occur when the vehicle is new, and their volume and frequency are expected to naturally dissipate after a short break-in period as the components settle.

Production Solution

The TSB states that there is "Not Applicable" for a production solution. This indicates that the characteristic is inherent to the vehicle's design and manufacturing process within the specified model years, and no specific design change has been implemented or is planned to eliminate this particular noise.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

This Technical Service Bulletin provides crucial guidance that directly impacts owners and service centers. Audi explicitly states that the squeaking noise is a normal condition. Therefore, technicians are instructed:

• Do not replace any parts: Replacing components will not resolve the concern.
• No parts will be debited: Needlessly replaced parts will be debited, meaning the dealership will not be reimbursed for unnecessary repairs related to this issue.
• Not applicable to warranty: This TSB is informational only and is not applicable to any Audi warranty claims for this specific condition. Owners should not expect warranty coverage for diagnosis or repair of this normal characteristic.

Service Information

When a customer reports an Audi steering squeak, service personnel are advised to explain the technical background as detailed in this bulletin. The core message to convey is that this is a normal operating characteristic of the vehicle, particularly when new, and it is expected to diminish over time. No diagnostic or repair action is necessary or recommended. This approach prevents unnecessary service visits, diagnostic time, and the replacement of functional parts.

Revision History

Technical Service Bulletin 40 23 51 2023187/7, published on March 23, 2023, supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 40 number 21-30, dated December 22, 2021. The revisions primarily involved updating the header to include additional model years, reflecting the ongoing applicability of this information across a broader range of Audi vehicles.

Source: NHTSA ID 10233489