2021-2022 Audi Front End Creaking Noise TSB 2058489/7

Owners of certain 2021-2022 Audi models, including the e-tron, Q7, and Q8, may experience an annoying creaking or squeaking noise from the front of their vehicle while driving. This issue is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2058489/7, which supersedes previous bulletin 22-44 dated July 12, 2022. This TSB provides a detailed repair procedure for technicians to resolve the front end creaking noise.

Symptoms

Vehicle owners may notice a "squeaking, creaking, or similar noises" coming from the front end, particularly when driving on uneven roads. These noises can also be felt in the footwell area or heard from behind the dash panel. If you hear an Audi e-tron creaking noise, it's important to have it diagnosed.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Audi workshops have confirmed that these noises are reproducible, especially on uneven surfaces. The TSB indicates that the noise originates from the lower-left guide in the area of the hydro-bushing. Technicians are advised to use acoustic testers to precisely locate the source of the noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 2058489/7 outlines a two-step repair process:

1. Hydro-Bushing Replacement: The primary repair involves replacing the hydro-bushing on the guide link in pairs. This procedure should follow the instructions in the ELSA Repair Manual under "Chassis >> Suspension >> Wheels, Steering >> 40 Front Axles >> Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint >> Guide link bonder rubber bushing, Removing and Installing."
2. Complete Guide Link Replacement (if necessary): If the hydro-bushing has already been replaced (pressed out/in) in a previous repair and the noise persists, the complete guide link must be replaced. This also follows the ELSA Repair Manual, specifically "Chassis >> Suspension >> Wheels, Steering >> 40 Front Axles >> Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint >> Guide link, Removing and Installing."

It is crucial for technicians to check the vehicle's repair history for any prior attempts to fix the Audi e-tron creaking noise.

Required Parts or Tools

To perform the repair, specific parts are required:

• Hydro-Bushing: Part Number 4M0407183B (Quantity: 02)
• Guide Link: If a complete guide link replacement is necessary, refer to ETKA for the correct part number (Quantity: 02).
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed, per the ELSA Repair Manual.

Important Warnings

• Technicians must precisely locate the source of the noise using acoustic testers to ensure the correct repair is performed.
• Always check the vehicle's repair history for repeat repairs to determine if the complete guide link needs replacement instead of just the hydro-bushings.
• The TSB notes that parts like the coupling rod are often replaced by mistake, which does not resolve the issue.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, provided the owner is verified. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only.

• Service Number: 4012
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • 2 Lower guide links remove + reinstall: 4016 2050 (for A8, Q7, and Q8)
  • 2 Lower guide links remove + reinstall: 4016 2000 (for e-tron)
  • Replace 2 guide link mounting: 4012 5650
• Diagnostic Time: GFF, 0 TU (No allowance)
• Road Test Time: 10 TU (0121 0002 prior to service, 0121 0004 after service)
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2058489/7

All warranty claims must comply with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty.

NHTSA ID: 10249146