2021-2022 Audi Q5/SQ5 Squeaking Front Seat TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 72 21 36 2059448/3 to address customer complaints regarding a squeaking noise from the front seat height adjustment. This bulletin, revised on September 17, 2021, supersedes an earlier TSB, Group 72 number 20-27, dated July 16, 2020. The TSB provides a detailed repair procedure for 2021-2022 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles experiencing this issue.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2021-2022 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may notice a distinct "squeaking noise is audible from the front seats while moving in the seat or while driving." This noise typically originates from the front seat's outer hinge area, specifically from behind the seat frame trim panel.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings indicate that the source of the squeaking noise is the front seat outer hinge area. The noise is caused by the toothed segment of the seat height adjustment mechanism. Under certain seat positions, particularly lower adjustment settings, this toothed segment can interfere with the support bracket, leading to the audible squeaking.

Audi implemented a production solution involving the application of lubricant to the toothed segment of the seat height adjustment. This was done to prevent the issue in newer vehicles.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the Audi Q5 squeaking seat issue, technicians will perform a lubrication procedure as outlined in TSB 72 21 36 2059448/3. The process involves several steps:

1. The affected front seat is first removed from the vehicle according to the Elsa Repair Manual.
2. The seat is then securely attached to a specialized seat repair fixture, VAS6136, which is mounted onto an engine and transmission holder, VAS6095A.
3. Technicians will remove the seat frame trim panel and tilt the seat forward to gain access to the seat height adjustment's toothed segment.
4. Grease spray, specifically part number G 052 778 A2, is applied to the toothed segment. This lubrication covers both the teeth and the lateral surfaces of the segment.
5. After lubrication, the seat frame trim panel is reinstalled, and the seat is placed back into the vehicle.
6. Finally, the seat is adjusted through its full range of vertical movement three times to ensure the grease is evenly distributed on the toothed segment.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this repair, specific parts and tools are necessary:

• Part Number: G 052 778 A2 (Lock cylinder lubricant spray)
• Tools:
  • VAS6136 (Seat repair fixture)
  • VAS6095A (Engine and transmission holder)
  • VAS 6160/VAS 6150 (ODIS Service with VAS tester, running Windows 10 with current ODIS version)

Fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws may also be needed as per the Elsa Repair Manual, and should be checked with the parts department.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the G10 claim type applies, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle falls outside of warranty coverage, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

Warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The service number for this procedure is 7210, with a damage code of 0020. Labor operations include:

• Modify 1 height adjuster: 7228 4999 (80 TU)
• Modify 2 height adjusters: 7228 5099 (120 TU)

Diagnostic time (GFF) is not allowed (0 TU). Road tests are allocated 10 TU before (0121 0002) and after (0121 0004) the service procedure. The claim comment should reference TSB #2059448/3.

What Owners Should Know

If your 2021-2022 Audi Q5 or SQ5 is exhibiting a squeaking noise from the front seat height adjustment, you should contact your authorized Audi dealership. Provide them with the symptom description and reference TSB 72 21 36 2059448/3. The repair involves lubricating the seat's height adjustment mechanism and is generally covered under warranty for eligible vehicles.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10201545