2023-2026 Audi Front End and Dash Panel Noises TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 40 25 87 2047920/11 to address various noises originating from the front end and dash panel of certain 2023-2026 Audi vehicles. This bulletin, which supersedes TSB Group 40 number 24-76 dated May 9, 2024, provides detailed diagnostic and repair information for technicians. Owners of a 2023 Audi e-tron front end noise issue, or similar models, may find this information helpful.

The TSB, last revised on January 9, 2025, specifically targets "rolling noises" that customers might perceive as coming from the front of their vehicle or behind the dash panel.

Symptoms

Owners may report a range of noises from the front of their vehicle, including "buzzing, booming, humming, whistling, or a similar noise from the front end of the vehicle." These sounds might be heard specifically "from the area around the steering wheel or behind the dash panel." It is also common for these noises to be mistakenly identified as "tire rolling noises."

Technical Background

Audi indicates that the root cause of these noises is often mechanical damage to the wheel bearing on the front axle. The design of the vehicle can transmit these wheel bearing noises through the steering system into the cabin, making them difficult to distinguish from other types of road noise.

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose the source of the 2023 Audi e-tron front end noise, technicians are advised to perform a test drive to reproduce the sounds. Several diagnostic questions can help pinpoint the issue:

• Does the noise frequency increase as vehicle speed rises?
• Does the noise become louder when steering?
• Does the noise persist when the vehicle is rolling to a stop in Neutral (N)?
• Is the noise amplified through the steering wheel or airbag well?
• Can vibrations be felt on the coil spring when the wheel is turning with the suspension extended?
• Does the noise shift to the other side if the wheel bearings are swapped?

Audi recommends using specialized acoustic testers, such as a PICO tool, Chassis ear, or VAG 1842, to precisely locate the noise source. Measurements should be taken at various points around the vehicle to identify the exact origin.

Repair Procedure Summary

Once a front wheel bearing is identified as the source of the noise, the repair involves replacing the affected wheel hub with the bearing. For specific models like the A3, Q3, Q4 e-tron, and TT, the labor operation code for removing and installing the wheel hub with bearing is 4067 19XX, or 4067 20XX for two wheel hubs. For all other models, replacing a single wheel bearing uses labor operation code 4057 55XX, and replacing two wheel bearings uses 4057 56XX.

Diagnostic time for noise analysis using a PICO tool is covered under labor operation 0161 00XX. Road tests before and after the service procedure are also covered under labor operations 0121 0002 and 0121 0004, respectively.

Required Tools or Parts

When a wheel bearing is replaced, the part number of the removed wheel bearing must be billed through SAGA, not ETKA.

Important Warnings

• Do Not Replace in Pairs: The front wheel bearings should not be replaced in pairs unless both are confirmed to be faulty. If the noise cannot be traced to a wheel bearing, further analysis on other components is necessary.
• Warranty Claims: All warranty claims submitted for payment must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. Claims are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty. The Service Number for this issue is 4057, and the Damage Code is 0020.

What Owners Should Do

If you experience a 2023 Audi e-tron front end noise, or similar symptoms in an affected Audi model, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Technicians will follow the diagnostic steps outlined in TSB 40 25 87 2047920/11 to identify and resolve the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11013694