2021-2026 Audi Noise and Vibration Analysis TSB 2070568/3

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2070568/3 to assist technicians in accurately diagnosing noise and vibration complaints across a wide range of Audi models from 2007 to 2025. This bulletin, dated November 20, 2024, supersedes the previous TSB 23-81 from November 7, 2023, and focuses on the effective use of the specialized VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool.

The TSB addresses situations where customers report noise or vibration issues, and workshop findings indicate that while the concern can be duplicated, the root cause is not easily identified. The 2021 Audi e-tron noise vibration issues, along with those in other models, can be complex, requiring precise diagnostic equipment and procedures.

Symptoms Leading to Diagnosis

Owners of various Audi models, including the 2021 Audi e-tron, may experience:

• "Noise or vibration complaints"

These symptoms often present a challenge for technicians because the underlying cause is not immediately apparent, necessitating advanced diagnostic methods.

Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners

This TSB includes critical safety warnings regarding the use and transport of test equipment during diagnostic procedures:

• "Danger due to the transport of unsecured test equipment." Unsecured equipment can cause injuries in accidents or certain driving maneuvers.
• "Do not transport test equipment in areas in which airbags inflate."
• "If possible, use test equipment on the rear seat bench. If there is no rear seat bench, the test equipment must only be readable by the passenger and must be secured so that it can only be operated by the passenger."
• "Move the passenger seat as far back as possible."
• "Using application programs when driving can be distracting. If the driver is distracted, this could cause injuries in certain maneuvers or in the event of an accident."
• "Always perform a road test with a second person who operates the test equipment."
• "This is not compulsory documentation and not relevant for audits!!!" This note applies to the log for measurement and diagnostic drives, indicating it's for support and documentation, not mandatory for audits.

Purpose of the PICO-NVH Tool

The VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool is designed to identify the sources of noises and vibrations with high precision. It utilizes acceleration sensors and/or microphones to record data. Crucially, information like engine speed and vehicle speed, vital for subsequent analysis, is recorded via the OBD adapter VAS 6154 alongside the noise data. This detailed approach helps pinpoint the exact cause of a 2021 Audi e-tron noise vibration issue.

Diagnostic Procedure Summary

The TSB outlines a comprehensive process for using the PICO-NVH tool:

1. Software Installation: Ensure the newest PICO software version is installed. For Audi e-tron vehicles, this is critical to record vehicle speed signals via the on-board diagnosis adapter.
2. Tool Connection: Connect the VAS 6154 OBD adapter to the VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool. For e-tron vehicles, select the "EV" setting in the PICO software.
3. Sensor Placement: Attach photos of the sensor positions, including the vehicle identification number, to the billing documentation. Label photos clearly (e.g., "sensor A measurement setup 01").
4. Measurement Drive: Conduct a road test, noting the mileage before and after. This drive is performed with a second person operating the test equipment to avoid driver distraction.
5. Data Analysis: Analyze the recorded data. Attach screenshots of the measurement report to the billing documentation.
6. Repositioning (if necessary): If the initial analysis requires repositioning the noise analysis tool, document the reason and provide photos of the new sensor positions.

Resources for Technicians

The TSB includes several attachments and resources to aid technicians:

• Analysis guidelines for using the PICO-NVH tool for noise analysis.
• Analysis guidelines for measuring points on the transmission.
• Specific measurement positions for Audi e-tron, Audi e-tron GT, and Audi Q8 e-tron for standard powertrain measurements.
• An Audi checklist for vehicle noise complaints.
• Notes on procurement and support for the VAS 611 015 tool.
• Software download and support information from https://vas.picoauto.com/ (password: Quattr#8).
• A description of attachments (password and software).
• Important notes regarding measurements on Audi e-tron vehicles, emphasizing the need for the latest PICO software to record vehicle speed signals.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform the diagnostic procedures described in TSB 2070568/3, technicians will need the following specialized equipment:

• VAS 6154: OBD adapter
• VAS 611 015: PICO-NVH tool
• VAS 6160/VAS 6150: VAS tester with the current version of ODIS (Windows 10)

Warranty Information

For vehicles outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin 2070568/3 is for informational purposes only. Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty. Specific labor operations are provided for billing:

• 0161 0000: Set-up time of noise analysis tool (50 TU)
• XXXX 0199: Measurement drive (bill according to time required, all work must be clearly documented)
• XXXX 0199: Analysis (bill according to time required, all work must be clearly documented)
• 0161 3199: Time required to reposition noise analysis tool (25 TU)

All part and service references in this TSB are subject to change. Technicians should always verify the latest information with their Parts Department and ETKA, and consult the Repair Manual for fastener, bolt, nut, and screw replacement guidelines.

NHTSA ID: 11011240