2020-2023 Audi Common Issues: E-tron Door Noise, DTCs, and Warnings

Audi has released an on-car analysis list dated May 1, 2023, detailing various common issues and their diagnostic approaches for a range of 2020-2023 models. This document serves as a crucial reference for technicians, outlining specific symptoms, associated diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and required documentation for proper repair.

This technical service bulletin (TSB) covers a variety of concerns, from warning lights and unusual noises to physical component issues. For owners experiencing problems such as an "Airbag light on" or a "Coolant warning Lamp", this document provides insight into the diagnostic steps their service center will follow. This includes specific procedures for diagnosing the Audi e-tron door panel noise.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi emphasizes that technicians must contact the Audi Helpline before attempting any repair related to the topics listed in this document. Furthermore, all topics have associated worksheets that must be filled out and attached to the TAC ticket. These worksheets are essential for proper diagnosis and can be found on ServiceNet under Technician References>>Vin-4-Pin>>Worksheets.

Symptoms and Fault Codes

This Audi on-car analysis list details several common issues, providing specific symptoms and, where applicable, associated Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Understanding these can help owners describe their vehicle's behavior accurately to service technicians.

Coolant System Issues

• "Coolant warning Lamp" (Q3 2020-2021): Owners may report a "low coolant warning in the cluster", even if the coolant level in the reservoir appears full. Technicians are advised that this issue is distinct from TSB 2061918. Documentation requires a photo of the reservoir level and a complete section of the reservoir, connector, and 4-inch harness.
• Q5 Coolant Reservoir Cap (Q5 2021-2023): This issue involves a "Coolant resevoir cap found damaged". Technicians must provide photos of any coolant leak found during inspection.
• 3.0L Water Pump Leaking (S4, S5, SQ5, A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8 2020-2023): For vehicles with the 3.0L engine, technicians will check the vacuum line from the water pump for coolant and inspect the N649 (Coolant pump switching valve) for proper operation.

Engine and Performance Concerns

• Abnormal/No Sound from Engine Sound Generator (All models with 3.0L EA839 engine 2021-2023): Customers may complain of "abnormal noise/ customer complaint from inside the vehicle" or a lack of sound from the engine sound generator. Diagnosis requires video/sound recordings of the abnormal noise before and after repair, during a sound actuator test, and an uploaded GFF log with executed tests and relevant DTCs.
• Q3 Oil Pan Leak (Q3 2020-2023): This refers to an "Oil leak found coming from the oil pan".
• Active Air Shutter Malfunction (Q7/Q8 2021-2022): The "Check engine lamp is illuminated" and the system stores DTC P05A000: Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Stuck. Technicians are required to document this with photos of the shutter motor.
• Q5 Belt Noise from Starter Generator (Q5 2023): Owners may notice "Noise is present from the starter generator during starting or while running". Technicians need an audio/video recording of the noise and must note ambient conditions like temperature and humidity to determine if the complaint is temperature-dependent.
• Boost Pressure Sensor Faults (Q3 2022): If the "Check engine lamp is on", the vehicle may have DTCs P010600, P023600, P023700, or P023800 related to the boost pressure sensor.

Interior and Electrical System Issues

• USB Trim Detached (All 2023): This involves a "USB trim panel is pushed in, loose or detached from center console".
• Noise from Front Door Trim Panel (e-tron Quattro, e-tron SB 2021-2022): Owners of these models may experience "Noise from front door trim panel while driving". This specific Audi e-tron door panel noise requires video documentation of the noise before repair and photos of the repair process.
• Airbag Light On with DTCs B100A1B or B100B1B (Q5 2020-2023): If the "Airbag light on" is illuminated, accompanied by DTC B100A1B or B100B1B, technicians must take close-up photos of the relevant thorax/side airbag connector (T3m or T3n) and both sides of the wire harness label, ensuring all inscribed information is legible.
• Noise from Front Door Speaker Grill (A5 2021-2022): Similar to the Q5 airbag issue, this topic also requires photos of both sides of the thorax/side airbag wire harness label, specifically referencing "Figures 2, 3" from the internal Audi documentation. This suggests a potential connection to wiring or connectors behind the door panel.

Diagnostic and Documentation Requirements

For each listed issue, Audi mandates specific diagnostic steps and documentation to ensure accurate troubleshooting and repair. This often includes:

• Visual and Audio Recordings: Videos and sound recordings are frequently requested for noise complaints (e.g., engine sound generator, starter generator, Audi e-tron door panel noise) to capture the symptom accurately.
• Photographic Evidence: Photos are essential for documenting physical damage (e.g., coolant reservoir cap, oil pan leak, active air shutter motor, airbag connectors, USB trim) and for showing component conditions before and after repair.
• Diagnostic Logs: Uploading GFF logs with executed tests and relevant DTCs is crucial for electronic system diagnostics.
• Specific Component Checks: Detailed checks like vacuum lines, switching valves (N649), pin fitment, and circuit resistance are specified for certain issues.
• Worksheet Completion: All findings must be recorded on specific worksheets found on ServiceNet and attached to the TAC ticket.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing any of these issues, such as a "Coolant warning Lamp", "Check engine lamp is illuminated", or the Audi e-tron door panel noise, it is recommended to visit an authorized Audi service center. Provide as much detail as possible about the symptoms, including when they occur and any warning messages displayed. The detailed diagnostic and documentation requirements outlined in this bulletin ensure that Audi technicians have the necessary information to accurately diagnose and address a wide array of customer concerns, improving repair accuracy and efficiency.

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SOURCE: NHTSA ID: 10236358