2023-2026 Audi e-tron Steering Noise TSB

Owners of 2023-2026 Audi e-tron vehicles may experience an Audi e-tron steering noise that manifests as grinding, ticking, or squeaking sounds when turning the steering wheel. This issue is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 94 24 81 2073332/3, which supersedes previous bulletin 94 number 24-76 dated April 8, 2024.

This TSB provides diagnostic and repair procedures for technicians to resolve the Audi e-tron steering noise concern, ensuring a quieter and smoother steering experience.

Symptoms

Owners may notice specific sounds emanating from the steering system. The primary symptom described by customers is the presence of "Grinding, ticking, or squeaking noises can be heard from the steering wheel/steering column when steering the vehicle."

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings confirm that these noises are verifiable when the vehicle is steered. Importantly, no relevant event memory entries (Diagnostic Trouble Codes or DTCs) are logged in the vehicle's system when this Audi e-tron steering noise occurs. The technical background attributes these noises to tolerances and temperature fluctuations, which can cause an interaction between the steering wheel electronics—including the steering column combination switch, coil connector with electronics, and steering angle sender—and the steering wheel itself.

For vehicles equipped with dynamic steering (PR number 1N8), if DTCs are present in the system, dynamic steering will be disabled. In such cases, if the noise also disappears, the root cause should be investigated within the dynamic steering system.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi's TSB 2073332/3 outlines a systematic approach to diagnose and resolve the steering noise:

1. Initial Check: Technicians will first remove the steering column trim and recheck for the noise. If the noise is resolved, the trim's installation position will be adjusted or insulated as needed.
2. Steering Wheel Electronics Inspection: If the noise persists, the entire steering wheel electronics module will be removed, and the steering wheel re-fitted to reassess the noise. If this resolves the issue, the steering wheel electronics will be re-fitted, and if the component is confirmed as the root cause and cannot be adjusted, it will be replaced. Proper routing of the airbag and steering wheel button harnesses is crucial to prevent tension on the slip ring.
3. Root Cause Isolation: If the noise still cannot be resolved, a stethoscope or similar tool will be used to further pinpoint the exact source of the noise.

Important Warnings

• This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) should only be claimed if the noise issue is resolved by adjusting or insulating the components as described. For any other root causes, this TSB does not apply, and claims should be billed as normal.
• If the noise can only be reproduced when the vehicle is on the ground (with vehicle weight), it is likely not related to the trim or steering wheel electronics.

Warranty Information

This repair may be covered under Audi's warranty. The claim types include 110 for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, and G10 for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of any warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only.

• Service Number: 9449
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Remove and install steering column trim: 7011 19xx
  • Check and adjust steering column switch: 9450 0699
  • Remove and install return ring (if applicable): 9013 1999
  • Diagnostic Time (GFF): 0150 0060
  • Charge Battery: 2706 8950
  • Road test prior to service: 0121 0002
  • Road test after service: 0121 0004
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2073332/3

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

What Owners Should Do

If your 2023-2026 Audi e-tron exhibits a grinding, ticking, or squeaking Audi e-tron steering noise, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them of the specific noises you are hearing, and mention this Technical Service Bulletin 94 24 81 2073332/3. The technicians will follow the outlined diagnostic steps to identify and resolve the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11002177