2022-2026 Audi PICO-NVH Tool for Noise Analysis TSB

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2070568/4 to provide detailed instructions for diagnosing noise and vibration complaints across its vehicle lineup, including the 2022 Audi e-tron. This TSB focuses on the professional use of the VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool, a specialized diagnostic instrument designed to identify the precise sources of unwanted sounds and vibrations in vehicles. Owners experiencing issues like crunching, wind noise, or shaking in their 2022 Audi e-tron or other affected models can benefit from understanding this diagnostic process.

What is the PICO-NVH Tool?

The VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool is a sophisticated system used by Audi technicians for Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) analysis. It employs acceleration sensors and microphones to pinpoint the exact origin of noises and vibrations. This tool integrates with vehicle data, such as engine and vehicle speed via the VAS 6154 OBD adapter, to provide a comprehensive analysis. The goal is to accurately identify root causes that might otherwise be difficult to diagnose, especially for the 2022 Audi e-tron noise vibration issues.

Common Noise and Vibration Complaints

This Technical Service Bulletin addresses a range of common noise and vibration complaints that owners might experience. These symptoms indicate the need for a thorough diagnostic analysis using the PICO-NVH tool. The types of complaints covered include:

• Crunching/groaning/crackling noises
• Wind noise
• Shaking
• General vehicle noise
• Chattering
• Thumping
• Buzzing

Important Warnings for Technicians

Audi emphasizes several critical warnings for technicians performing diagnostics with the PICO-NVH tool, particularly when a road test is involved. These warnings are crucial for ensuring safety and accurate results:

• "Using application programs when driving can be distracting. If the driver is distracted, this can lead to accidents and injuries."
• "Observe the road traffic regulations in your country. They have priority over any driving instructions."
• "Always perform a road test with a second person who operates the test equipment."
• "Make sure that the test equipment in the vehicle does not distract the driver."
• "Danger due to the transport of unsecured test equipment." Test equipment must be secured properly and not transported in areas where airbags inflate. If possible, use 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.

Diagnostic Guidelines and Resources

TSB 2070568/4 outlines various guidelines and resources to assist technicians in using the VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool effectively. These include:

• Detailed analysis guidelines for the PICO-NVH tool.
• Specific guidelines for measuring points on the transmission.
• Measurement positions for standard powertrain analysis on Audi e-tron GT, Audi e-tron, Audi Q8, Audi A6 (FU), Audi Q5 (GU), Audi Q6, and Audi A6 e-tron models.
• A comprehensive checklist for addressing vehicle noise complaints.
• Information on procuring and supporting the VAS 611 015 tool.
• Instructions for downloading necessary software from picoauto.com (password: Quattro6).
• Guidance on configuring the ODIS adapter VAS6154 to record engine and vehicle speed data.
• Instructions for installing the diagnostic interface VAS 6154 with the PICO NVH tool.

Technicians are also directed to "Software/Hardware Updates" and to search for "PICO" in ElsaPro for further information. Additionally, several QR codes are provided in the TSB, linking to Audi Knowledge Tank videos for PICO Tool training, covering identification, configuration, measurement, and expert diagnosis.

Specific Considerations for Audi e-tron Vehicles

For Audi e-tron vehicles, including the 2022 Audi e-tron, specific steps are required to ensure accurate noise and vibration measurements. Technicians must ensure the newest PICO software version is installed; otherwise, the vehicle speed signal cannot be recorded via the on-board diagnosis adapter. When connecting the VAS 6154 OBD adapter in the PICO software, the "EV" setting must be selected. The TSB also details specific vehicle type selections for e-tron models like A6 e-tron, Q8 e-tron, e-tron GT, e-tron GE, and Q4 e-tron.

Required Tools and Software

To perform the professional noise analysis described in TSB 2070568/4, specific tools and software are required:

• VAS 6154: An OBD adapter used for vehicle communication.
• VAS 611 015: The PICO-NVH tool itself, central to the diagnostic process.
• VAS 6160/VAS 6150: A VAS tester running the current version of ODIS (Windows 10).
• PICO Diagnostic Software: The latest version is essential, especially for e-tron vehicles.
• Additional PassThru driver: May be required for connection.

These tools enable technicians to accurately diagnose the 2022 Audi e-tron noise vibration and similar issues across the Audi lineup.

Warranty Information

Audi states that this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only regarding warranty claims. Technicians should use the appropriate service number for the causal part and the correct damage code. The TSB outlines detailed labor operations for setting up noise analysis, performing measurement drives, analyzing data, and repositioning equipment if necessary. All work carried out must be clearly documented, and the claim comment should reference "As per TSB 2070568/4."

Source: NHTSA ID: 11021447