2021-2023 Audi e-tron Rear Axle Rumbling Noises TSB

Owners of 2021-2023 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback vehicles may experience a specific type of noise from the rear axle, particularly in cold conditions. Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2064019/4 to address these concerns, providing diagnostic information and a repair procedure for what is described as an Audi e-tron rear axle noise.

This bulletin, dated September 6, 2024, supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 42 number 23-51, which was issued on March 27, 2023. The latest revision, Revision 4, includes updated information regarding the condition, warranty, and service notes. Earlier revisions, Revision 3 (March 27, 2023) and Revision 2 (June 9, 2022), also included header updates and added model years.

This TSB applies to various Audi e-tron models, including the 2019, 2021-2023 e-tron; 2020-2023 e-tron Sportback; and 2024-2025 Q8 e-tron, Q8 Sportback e-tron, SQ8 e-tron, and SQ8 Sportback e-tron vehicles.

Symptoms

Customers may report "Rumbling/rattling noises from the rear axle area" when driving over irregularities in the road surface. This Audi e-tron rear axle noise is typically reproducible at speeds between 5 and 20 mph, specifically when outside temperatures are below 32°F. The noise originates from the rear shock absorbers or their mountings.

Diagnosis and Technical Background

The root cause of the rumbling or rattling noise is frozen water or dirt accumulating above the shock absorber mountings. When temperatures drop below 32°F, this frozen material restricts the normal operation of the shock absorber mounting, leading to the audible complaint. Technicians can confirm the issue by carefully heating the shock absorber mounting to see if the noise subsides.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair outlined in TSB 2064019/4 involves replacing the rear shock absorber mountings and sealing them to prevent future accumulation of frozen debris. The procedure includes the following steps:

1. Remove Shock Absorbers: Both rear shock absorbers must be removed. Technicians should refer to the Elsa Repair Manual, specifically the sections for Chassis >> Suspension, Steering, Wheels >> 42 Rear Suspension >> Suspension Strut, Shock Absorber, Spring, for detailed instructions.
2. Replace Mountings: The shock absorber mountings on both sides of the vehicle (item 6 in Figure 1, picture 1 of the TSB) are to be replaced with new ones.
3. Apply Sealing Cord: After installing the new mountings, approximately 10 inches of butyl sealing cord (part number AKD49701004R10) must be applied on each side. This cord creates a seal between the protective cap (item 4 in Figure 1, picture 1) and the new shock absorber mounting (item 6 in Figure 1, picture 1). Figure 1, pictures 2 and 3 illustrate this sealing process.
4. Prepare Surfaces: Before applying the butyl sealing cord, it is crucial to ensure that the sealing surfaces of both the new shock absorber mounting and the corresponding shock-absorber protective cap are clean and dry. The original shock absorber cap (item 4) can be reused if it is in good condition.

Required Parts and Warranty Information

For this repair, the following parts are required:

• Shock absorber mounting: Quantity 02 (refer to ETKA for specific part numbers).
• Butyl Sealing Cord: Part number AKD49701004R10, Quantity 0.1.
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: Refer to ETKA and the Repair Manual for necessary quantities.

This service is identified by Service Number 4295 and Damage Code 0020. The labor operations associated with this repair include:

• Replace 2 shock absorber mountings: Labor operation 4295 5650 (time units vary, refer to SRT).
• Seal 2 shock absorber mountings: Labor operation 4295 5299 (30 TU).
• Road test prior to service: Labor operation 0121 0002 (10 TU).
• Road test after service: Labor operation 0121 0004 (10 TU).
• GFF (Guided Fault Finding): No allowance (0 TU).

Warranty claims should be submitted as per TSB 2064019/4 and must comply with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. Claims are subject to review by Audi Warranty. If the vehicle is outside its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, and the repair costs may not be covered.

Important Notes for Owners

Audi advises that technicians must reproduce the customer complaint to ensure it aligns with the conditions described in this TSB. The repair should only be performed if all specified criteria (model/type, VIN, PR numbers) are met. Failing to do so may result in the problem not being resolved, requiring repeat repairs, and potentially leading to the rejection of warranty claims for parts and labor.

NHTSA ID: 11009338