2022-2024 Audi Front End Noise TSB 2047920/10

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2047920/10 to address customer complaints of various noises originating from the front end and dash panel of 2022-2024 Audi vehicles while in motion. This TSB, which supersedes previous bulletin 24-75 dated March 8, 2024, provides guidance for diagnosing and repairing these issues, often linked to mechanical damage in the front axle wheel bearings. If you're experiencing an Audi e-tron front end noise, this bulletin offers important insights.

Symptoms

Owners may notice several types of noises from the front of their vehicle. These include:

• "a buzzing, booming, humming, whistling, or a similar noise from the front end."
• Noises that can be heard from the steering area or behind the dash panel.
• Noises that might be perceived as tire rolling noises.

Technicians have confirmed that these noises are reproducible during a test drive, indicating a consistent underlying issue.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the source of an Audi e-tron front end noise can be challenging, as wheel bearing noises can be transmitted through the steering system into the vehicle interior, making them difficult to distinguish from tire rolling noises. To accurately pinpoint the problem, technicians are advised to consider the following diagnostic questions:

• Does the frequency or sound of the noise increase with vehicle speed?
• Does the noise become louder when steering?
• Is the noise still present when slowing down?
• Is the noise amplified on the steering wheel or airbag well?
• Can vibrations be felt on the unpressed coil spring when the wheel is turning?

Audi recommends using specialized tools like acoustic testers and/or a PICO tool to precisely locate the noise source. This helps ensure that the correct component is identified for repair.

Important Warnings

• Do not replace front wheel bearings in pairs. The TSB explicitly states: "The front wheel bearings should not be replaced in pairs." Only the affected bearing should be replaced.
• A noise perceived on one side of the vehicle, for example, the left side, could actually be caused by a faulty wheel bearing on the opposite side, such such as the right wheel bearing. Technicians should use diagnostic tools to confirm the exact source.
• If the noise cannot be traced to a wheel bearing, further analysis of other components is required.

Repair Procedure Summary

Once a front axle wheel bearing is identified as the source of the noise, the repair involves replacing the affected component. The general procedure includes:

1. Noise Analysis: Conduct a thorough noise analysis using a PICO tool (Labor Operation 0161 00XX).
2. Road Test: Perform a road test before the service procedure (Diagnostic Time 0121 0002, 10 TU).
3. Wheel Bearing Replacement: Remove and install the wheel hub with the bearing. Specific labor operations vary by model:
   • For Audi A3, Q3, Q4 e-tron, and TT models, use Labor Operation 4067 19XX (for single wheel hub with bearing) or 4067 20XX (for 2-wheel hub with bearings).
   • For all other Audi models, use Labor Operation 4057 55XX (for single wheel bearing replacement) or 4057 56XX (for 2-wheel bearing replacement).
4. Post-Repair Road Test: Conduct a road test after the service procedure to confirm the noise is resolved (Diagnostic Time 0121 0004, 10 TU).

Required Parts and Tools

Technicians will need to consult ETKA (Audi's electronic parts catalog) for the specific part numbers for wheel bearings. Additionally, fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws should be obtained as needed per the repair manual and ETKA/ELSA. Only one wheel bearing is typically required for replacement, as they should not be replaced in pairs.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, and owner verification is required. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin 2047920/10 serves as informational guidance only. The Service Number for this issue is 4057, and the Damage Code is 0020. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

NHTSA ID: 11002123