2021-2023 Audi Q5/SQ5 Missing Hood Noise Insulation TSB

Understanding the Audi Q5 Missing Hood Insulation

Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 70 21 71 2061954/1, issued on January 20, 2021, addresses a common observation by technicians and owners: the Audi Q5 missing hood insulation. This bulletin clarifies that the absence of the front hood noise insulation is not a manufacturing error or a defect requiring repair. Instead, it is a deliberate change in the production process.

This TSB specifically applies to 2021-2023 Audi Q5 and SQ5 models, and 2022-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback models. It aims to prevent unnecessary diagnostic work and repairs for a condition that is considered normal for these vehicles.

Symptoms and Discovery

Owners of affected Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles will not experience any specific symptoms or performance issues due to the missing insulation. The TSB states there are "No customer concerns" related to this condition.

Instead, the absence of the front hood noise insulation is typically discovered by technicians during Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) or other routine diagnostic work. Technicians might notice the missing panel and incorrectly assume it's a fault.

Why the Insulation is Missing: A Production Change

The technical background provided by Audi explains that the factory no longer installs the front hood noise insulation in production for these specific models and model years. This is a deliberate "Production Solution" by the manufacturer.

Figure 1 in the original bulletin visually confirms an Audi Q5 without the underhood noise insulation, illustrating the normal condition for these vehicles. This change means that any vehicle produced within the specified range will naturally lack this component.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 70 21 71 2061954/1 provides clear instructions to prevent unnecessary actions:

• Do not perform any repairs: Technicians are explicitly instructed not to attempt any repairs related to the missing hood insulation. Any such repairs may be denied warranty coverage.
• No replacement needed: The installation of a replacement insulation panel is not necessary.
• Inform the customer: Service personnel should instruct the customer that this condition is normal for their vehicle.

This means if you notice your Audi Q5 missing hood insulation, there is no cause for concern or action.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is classified as "informational only." This means it serves to clarify a production change and does not outline a repair procedure eligible for warranty claims. Therefore, the TSB is "not applicable to any Audi Warranty." Owners should not expect warranty coverage for any attempt to install a hood insulation panel, as it is not considered a defect.

Additional Information

All part and service references mentioned in this TSB (2061954) are subject to change. Technicians are advised to consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information.

Source: NHTSA ID 10186556