2023-2026 Audi Front End and Dash Panel Noise TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 40 24 75 2047920/9, dated March 8, 2024, to address various noises originating from the front end and dash panel of certain vehicles. This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 40 number 23-68, from September 7, 2023. The bulletin provides diagnostic steps and repair procedures for technicians to resolve these audible concerns, which are often linked to mechanical damage within the front wheel bearings.

This TSB is particularly relevant for owners experiencing an Audi e-tron front end noise or similar sounds. The noises can be challenging to pinpoint, as wheel bearing sounds can be mistaken for other vehicle noises.

Symptoms

Owners may experience various types of noise while the vehicle is in motion. These include a "buzzing, booming, humming, whistling, or a similar noise from the front end." The noises might also be heard from the steering area or behind the dash panel. In some cases, these sounds can be mistaken for typical tire rolling noises. Technicians can often reproduce these noises during a test drive.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The TSB indicates that mechanical damage to the front axle's wheel bearings is a common underlying cause for these noises. To help diagnose the issue, technicians are advised to consider several factors:

• Does the noise's frequency increase as vehicle speed rises, or does the sound get higher?
• Does the noise become louder when steering?
• Is the noise still present when the vehicle is slowing down?
• Is the noise amplified through the steering wheel or airbag well?
• Can vibrations be felt on an unpressed coil spring when the wheel is turning?

Important Warnings

Technicians are instructed to precisely locate the noise source using acoustic testers and/or PICO tools. It's crucial to understand that a noise perceived on one side of the vehicle might actually be caused by the wheel bearing on the opposite side. The TSB explicitly states: "The front wheel bearings should not be replaced in pairs." If a wheel bearing is not the cause of the Audi e-tron front end noise, further analysis of other components is required.

Repair Procedure Summary

The primary repair involves replacing the affected wheel bearing on the front axle. Due to the proximity of the wheel bearings to the steering system, their noises can transmit into the vehicle interior, making it difficult to differentiate them from other sounds like tire rolling noises. The repair process focuses on identifying and replacing the specific damaged wheel bearing rather than replacing both front wheel bearings.

Required Tools or Parts

For the replacement of wheel bearings and associated fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws, technicians should consult ETKA and/or ELSA for the latest part numbers and information. These systems provide up-to-date details on the specific components needed for the repair.

Warranty Information

This repair, identified under Service Number 4057 and Damage Code 0020, may be covered under Audi's warranty. For eligible vehicles, coverage extends up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles may also be covered under the G10 claim type. If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin 40 24 75 2047920/9 serves as informational guidance only, meaning the owner would likely be responsible for repair costs. Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Specific labor operations include:

• 4057 5550: Replace wheel bearing for models such as A4, A5 (minus Cabriolet), A6, A7, A8, e-tron GT, Q5, Q7, Q8, and R8.
• 4050 5550: Replace wheel bearing for models such as A3, A5 Cabriolet, e-tron, Q3, Q4 e-tron, e-tron quattro, Q8 e-tron, and TT.

Diagnostic time (GFF) has no allowance. Road tests before and after the service procedure are allocated 10 time units (TU) each, using labor operation codes 0121 0002 and 0121 0004 respectively.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a persistent Audi e-tron front end noise or similar sounds described in this bulletin, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Describe the symptoms in detail to help technicians diagnose the issue effectively. Be prepared to discuss the conditions under which the noise occurs, such as speed, steering input, or braking.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10251646