2021-2023 Audi Q7/SQ7 Second Row Seat Noise TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2060719/2 to address customer complaints regarding noises emanating from the second-row seats in certain models. This TSB, titled "72 Noises from the second row seats," applies to 2021-2023 Audi Q7 and SQ7 vehicles. It supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 72 number 20-29, dated October 5, 2020, providing an updated solution for the Audi Q7 second row seat noise.

Symptoms

Owners of affected vehicles may experience squeaking, rattling, or buzzing noises originating from the right and/or left second-row seats while driving. These noises are particularly noticeable when driving on rough roads. The source of the squeak, rattle, or buzz is typically the second-row seat locking plate located in the floorboard.

Technical Background

The underlying cause of the Audi Q7 second row seat noise is relative movement between the seat frame lock and the locking plate (also known as the striker) in the floorboard. When the vehicle encounters rough road conditions, these components can vibrate against each other. These vibrations are then transferred through the locking plate and the seat lock, resulting in the audible squeak, rattle, and buzz concerns reported by customers.

Important Warnings

When performing any adjustments or repairs related to the seat locking plate, it is crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines precisely. Audi explicitly warns: "Do not add tape or any other material to the locking plate. Adding tape/material could negatively affect the function of the seat latch and thus result in serious personal injury or death!" This emphasizes the critical safety function of the seat latching mechanism.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 2060719/2 outlines a specific procedure for adjusting the outer locking plate in the floorboard to eliminate the second-row seat noises. The repair involves several steps:

1. The affected second-row seat must be folded and tilted forward to provide access to the outer locking plate.
2. Technicians will then remove the trim surrounding the outer locking plate, following repair manual instructions.
3. Both bolts securing the locking plate are loosened. It is recommended to mark the original position of the locking plate before loosening the bolts.
4. The locking plate is then moved evenly towards the rear of the vehicle by approximately 1.2 mm (about 3/64 inches).
5. After the adjustment, the locking plate bolts are tightened according to repair manual specifications, and the trim is reinstalled.
6. To ensure the repair is successful and safe, the affected seat must be latched and unlatched several times to verify proper engagement in both locking plates.
7. Finally, the seat is adjusted forward and backward multiple times to confirm that both the inner and outer seat rails of the affected seat latch simultaneously.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty policy for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, requiring verification of ownership. If the vehicle is outside the applicable warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. The service number associated with this procedure is 7255.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10210508