2008-2026 Audi Speaker Rattles, Vibrations, or Audio Interference TSB

Owners of various Audi models from 2008 to 2026 may experience issues with their vehicle's sound system, specifically reporting "A cracking, grinding, rattling, humming, whining, or similar interference is coming from one or more speakers." This common complaint, often referred to as Audi speaker rattles, is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 91 24 25 2018187/15.

This TSB, which supersedes previous bulletin 91 24-16, provides technicians with a comprehensive guide to diagnose and resolve speaker-related noise issues. The bulletin emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying the source of the noise, as it may not always originate directly from the speaker itself.

Symptoms

Owners may notice various types of noise interference from their vehicle's speakers, including:

• "A cracking, grinding, rattling, humming, whining, or similar interference is coming from one or more speakers."

These noises can be particularly noticeable during phone calls or when playing audio at certain frequencies.

Technical Background

The underlying cause of these Audi speaker rattles and other noises often stems from vibrations. Components such as speaker brackets, cables, or covers, as well as parts of the interior fittings like door covers, the rear shelf, facings, or other trim pieces, can vibrate in resonance at specific frequencies. These vibrations then generate the audible interference that owners experience.

Important Warnings for Owners

This TSB includes several critical advisories for both technicians and owners:

• "If the customer uses individual tone settings, please reset them to their default value." This ensures accurate diagnosis.
• "It is not always possible to localize the exact source of the noise directly. Vehicle components can transmit noises from other areas into the passenger compartment, which can make it difficult to localize the source of a noise correctly. Please always check around the speakers, as well as the speakers themselves." This highlights the complexity of diagnosing sound issues.
• "This applies to complaints regarding noises while on a phone call, in particular."
• "Please note that claims for speaker covers that are replaced without being damaged may be denied." This means unnecessary replacements may not be covered.
• "Do not claim on the service number of the speaker!" when the issue is related to interior trim.
• "Parts must not be replaced without a good reason as stated in this TSB. Such claims may be debited." This prevents unnecessary part replacements and associated costs.

Repair Procedure Summary

Audi TSB 91 24 25 2018187/15 outlines a systematic approach to diagnose and resolve speaker noise complaints. The process begins with preparation and careful re-evaluation of the complaint to ensure the noise is consistently reproducible.

1. Preparation: Technicians will remove all loose objects from storage compartments in doors, the glove box, and around the hat-shelf to eliminate potential external noise sources.
2. Complaint Reassessment: The technician will attempt to reproduce the noise. If applying pressure to a speaker cover stops the noise, the cover is removed for further testing.
3. Speaker Cover Inspection: If the noise disappears after removing the speaker cover, the cover will be reinstalled correctly. If necessary, measures like felt may be used to quiet it, or a damaged cover will be replaced. Labor for speaker cover replacement is claimed using the service number of the speaker cover as the casual part.
4. Bolt Tightness Check: All bolts securing the affected speaker will be checked and tightened. If tightening resolves the issue, labor is claimed using the service number of the loudspeaker with damage type SA018 "loose."
5. Foreign Object Inspection: The speaker will be checked for any foreign objects or debris (FOD), which will be removed if found.
6. Dismounted Speaker Test: The speaker is dismounted from the vehicle and tested separately to check for internal damage, such as to the membrane or foam bead.
7. Interior Inspection: The vehicle's interior is thoroughly checked for other sources of noise, such as loose bolts, trim pieces, fluttering labels, or wires. Any loose components are secured or replaced.
8. Speaker Reinstallation: If the complaint cannot be reproduced with the speaker dismounted and no other interior issues are found, the speaker is reinstalled, ensuring it is seated centrally and flush.
9. Loudspeaker Swap Test: If the issue persists, the technician may swap the problematic loudspeaker with the opposite side's loudspeaker to determine if the noise moves with the speaker. If it does, the speaker is replaced. If not, further diagnosis of the amplifier or main unit area is required.

Warranty Information

When addressing rattling noises on trim parts under warranty, the TSB specifies that the labor must be claimed using the service number of the specific trim piece, not the speaker. The damage type should accurately reflect the cause and location of the complaint. Examples of service numbers for various components include 5811 (Door handle), 7014 (Loudspeaker cover), and 9732 (Wiring harness for door).

Owner Action

If you are experiencing Audi speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference in your 2008-2026 Audi, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them of the specific symptoms you are experiencing. The technicians will follow the procedures outlined in TSB 91 24 25 2018187/15 to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11002955