2022-2026 Audi Steering Wheel Noise TSB 2073332/2

Symptoms of Audi Steering Wheel Noise

Owners of 2022-2026 Audi vehicles may experience an Audi steering wheel noise described as grinding, ticking, or squeaking sounds. These noises typically originate from the steering wheel or steering column area and are noticeable when the vehicle is being steered.

Workshop investigations confirm that these noises can be reproduced during steering, but importantly, no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or other relevant event memory entries are logged in the vehicle's system.

Technical Background

The root cause of this Audi steering wheel noise is often attributed to manufacturing tolerances and temperature fluctuations. These factors can lead to an interaction between the steering wheel electronics and the steering wheel itself. The steering wheel electronics include components such as the steering column combination switch, the coil connector with its integrated electronics, and the steering angle sender.

Audi has implemented continuous improvements in production to the mounting of the steering column combination switch to the steering column to mitigate this issue in newer vehicles.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2073332/2 outlines a multi-step diagnostic and repair process for technicians to address the Audi steering wheel noise:

1. Initial Check: Technicians begin by removing the steering column trim and re-checking for the noise. If the noise persists, further investigation is required. If the noise is resolved, the installation position of the steering column trim is checked and adjusted or insulated as needed.
2. Steering Wheel Electronics Inspection: The entire steering wheel electronics module is removed, and the steering wheel is re-fitted to the steering column. The noise is then reassessed.
   • If the noise disappears, the steering wheel electronics are identified as the root cause. The technician will then re-fit the electronics and confirm the diagnosis. If adjustment cannot resolve the noise, the steering wheel electronics module should be replaced.
   • It is crucial to ensure that the airbag, airbag harness, or steering wheel button harness are correctly routed and positioned to avoid applying undue tension to the slip ring.
3. Advanced Isolation: If the noise continues after these steps, a stethoscope or similar tool is used to pinpoint the exact source of the noise.

Important Warnings for Owners

• Dynamic Steering (PR number 1N8): For vehicles equipped with dynamic steering, if diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are present in the system, dynamic steering will be disabled. In these cases, if the noise also disappears, the root cause may lie within the dynamic steering system itself.
• Vehicle Weight Consideration: If the noise can only be duplicated with vehicle weight (car on the ground), it is likely that the noise is not related to the trim or steering wheel electronics.
• Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is outside of any warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only, meaning repairs may not be covered by Audi.

Warranty Information

This repair is generally covered under Audi's New Vehicle Limited Warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the G10 claim type applies, requiring owner verification.

Repair Codes and Labor Operations

Technicians will use the following service and damage codes, along with specific labor operations, when submitting warranty claims:

• Service Number: 9449
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Remove and install steering column trim: 7011 19xx
  • Check and adjust steering column trim: 9450 0699 (10 Time Units)
  • Remove and install return ring (if applicable): 9013 1999 (10 Time Units)
  • Alternatively, remove and install steering column trim (if applicable): 9450 19XX

Diagnostic time is recorded as GFF (0150 0000) with a maximum of 100 Time Units. Road tests are also accounted for: 0121 0002 (10 TU) before service and 0121 0004 (10 TU) after service. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10253292, TSB 2073332/2.