2021-2023 Audi e-tron AC Compressor Noise TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2021-2023 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback vehicles may notice a specific noise inside the cabin when the air conditioning system is active. This "noise heard in the cabin when the air conditioning system is active" is particularly noticeable when the AC compressor is running. The noise typically disappears when the air conditioning system is turned off, helping to isolate the source of the problem. Workshop findings confirm that this symptom is easily reproducible and does not originate from inside the cabin itself.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that the Audi e-tron AC noise often stems from vibrations caused by physical contact between various components in the front motor compartment. Specifically, the noise can be due to:

• Direct contact between adjacent refrigerant lines.
• Contact between a refrigerant line and the Bowden cable clip for the front hood release.

When the air conditioning compressor operates, these points of contact can transfer vibrations into the cabin, creating the audible noise. In some cases, the compressor isolator spring may also be incorrectly seated in its rubber mounting, leading to an improperly seated compressor isolator assembly that contributes to the vibration and noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 2063467/7 outlines a multi-step repair process to address the Audi e-tron AC noise:

1. Identify Contact Points: Technicians will inspect the refrigerant lines for any areas where they are making direct contact with each other or other components. Visual aids (like Figure 1 and Figure 3 in the TSB) help identify these points.
2. Separate and Secure Refrigerant Lines: Any refrigerant lines found to be in contact must be separated. If necessary, they are retained in a separated position using a hose holder, clip, or tie-wrap (as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6).
3. Check Bowden Cable Clip Contact: An additional inspection point is the refrigerant line containing the service port and its proximity to the Bowden cable clip for the front hood release. If contact is found, these components must be separated and secured (Figure 7).
4. Inspect Coaxial Refrigerant Line: Technicians also check for contact between the coaxial refrigerant line and the refrigerant line containing the service port, separating and securing them if necessary (Figure 8).
5. Correct Compressor Isolator Seating: The compressor isolator spring assembly is inspected for proper fit and seating within its rubber mounting. If found poorly seated (Figure 9), the spring and/or rubber mount may need to be twisted to correctly index them, ensuring the isolator assembly lies flat against the bracket (Figure 10).
6. Adjust Service Port Mounting: A possible point of contact is the service port mounting block with an adjacent line (Figure 11). This is corrected by pushing the service port to create a permanent clearance (Figure 12).

Important Warnings

For proper documentation and warranty claims, technicians are required to take photos of the customer's concern and upload them into DOC-IT with the repair order. These photos must include a date stamp and VIN reference, and be taken in focus with sufficient light.

Warranty Information

This repair, as detailed in TSB 2063467/7, is generally covered under Audi's warranty program. The claim type is 110, applicable for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, claim type G10 applies, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

• Service Number: 8744
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations: Specific labor operations include removing and reinstalling the front storage compartment (7007 1900), separating and securing refrigerant/coolant lines (8744 1399, 70 TU), and correcting compressor isolator positions.
• Diagnostic Time: Diagnostic procedures (GFF) and road tests before and after service are typically performed with no additional allowance (0 TU).

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Additional Information

All part and service references mentioned in TSB 2063467 are subject to change. Technicians should always consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the most current information and parts bulletins. The Repair Manual should also be checked for any fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that require replacement during the repair.

NHTSA ID: 11002146