2021-2026 Audi e-tron Steering Wheel Vibrations TSB

Owners of 2021-2026 Audi e-tron and other Audi models may notice vibrations while driving, particularly between 35 and 70 mph. These vibrations, including rotational steering wheel vibrations, can be felt in various parts of the vehicle, such as the seat surface, vehicle floor, footwell, pedal cluster, or the steering wheel itself. The intensity of these vibrations may increase during braking or acceleration, or they might only appear during specific driving conditions.

Symptoms

If you own a 2021-2026 Audi e-tron, you might experience the following symptoms:

• Vibrations felt at speeds between 35 and 70 mph.
• Shaking or trembling in the seat surface.
• Vibrations noticeable through the vehicle floor or footwell.
• A vibrating sensation in the pedal cluster.
• Rotational steering wheel vibrations.
• Vibrations that are more pronounced during acceleration or braking.

Diagnosis and Technical Background

The primary cause for these vibrations is often related to the tires' radial force variation (RFV). Tires inherently have varying stiffness around their circumference due to their construction. This variation in compression force is known as radial force variation. To accurately diagnose this, a specialized vibration control system, such as VAS6230(A), is used to simulate the tire rolling on the road.

For optimal performance, the peak-to-peak value of the radial force variation should be 120N or less. Furthermore, the first harmonic vibration, which is the most significant contributor to vibrations, must not exceed 80N. Another contributing factor can be flat spots on tires, which can develop after the vehicle has been stationary for even a few hours, especially when the tires cool down. These flat spots can skew radial force variation measurements and must be driven out before any wheel balancing procedure.

Important Warnings

Audi emphasizes several key points for owners and technicians regarding this issue:

• "Flat spots are normal and not faults covered under warranty." Owners should be aware that tire flat spots are a characteristic of tires and not a defect covered by warranty.
• "If the first harmonic vibration of the radial force cannot be brought to the specified limit of 80N by matching, a new tire must be used." This indicates that if the issue persists after attempting to match the wheel and tire, replacement of the tire is necessary.
• "Only repairs on components which were part of the vehicle when it was delivered can be claimed under warranty." This clarifies that warranty claims are limited to original vehicle components.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi e-tron steering wheel vibrations involves a precise, multi-step process outlined in TSB 2074846/1:

1. Test Drive: A test drive of up to 20 miles is performed across various speed ranges (up to 65 mph) to confirm the vibration symptoms.
2. Vehicle Preparation: Immediately after the test drive, the vehicle is raised so that the wheels are off the ground.
3. Wheel Mounting: The wheels are removed and mounted onto the vibration control system VAS6230(A).
4. Measurement and Balancing: The wheels are then measured, balanced, and, if necessary, matched according to the equipment's instructions, using the specified reference values.
5. Re-installation: The wheels are refitted to the vehicle following instructions provided by the Hunter equipment.
6. Tire Pressure Adjustment: The tire pressure is restored to the vehicle's required specifications.
7. Final Assessment: The vehicle is assessed again in the speed range where the vibrations were initially reported to ensure the repair was successful.

When tightening wheels on the vibration control system, it is crucial to ensure that the flange and wheel contact surfaces are clean, the wheel is correctly centered, and a suitable taper and tensioning device, such as a five-finger tensioning device, is used.

Required Tools and Parts

Technicians will require specialized equipment to perform the diagnostic and repair procedures for the Audi e-tron steering wheel vibrations:

• VAS 6230 (GSP9700): This is a Road Force Measurement System, essential for accurately measuring tire radial force variation.
• VAS 6243: A Clamping Plate used in conjunction with the measurement system.

Warranty Information

For warranty claims related to this TSB, the following codes and procedures apply:

• Service Number: 4440
• Damage Code: 0013
• Labor Operations:
  • 1 wheel balanced: 4405 9300
  • 1 wheel matched: 4405 9351
  • 2/3/4 wheels balanced: 4405 940x
  • 2/3/4 wheels matched: 4405 945x
  • Replace 1 tire: 4440 5550
  • Replace 2/3/4 tires: 4440 565x
• Diagnostic Time:
  • Road test prior to service: 0121 0002 (10 TU)
  • Road test after service: 0121 0004 (10 TU)
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2074846/1

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty. Only repairs on original components delivered with the vehicle are eligible for warranty claims.

NHTSA ID: 11007315