2018-2021 Audi TFSI Cylinder Head Oil Leak TSB 2053278/5

Owners of various 2018-2021 Audi models equipped with 2.9L and 3.0L TFSI engines may experience an oil leak from the cylinder head area. This issue is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2053278/5, which supersedes previous bulletin 20-35 dated October 8, 2020. The TSB outlines specific diagnostic steps and repair procedures to resolve the oil leak.

Symptoms of an Audi TFSI Oil Leak

If your Audi is affected by this issue, you might observe the following symptoms:

• "Oil loss in the area around the engine compartment, front end, and underbody."
• An "Oil level warning (too low)" message appearing on your dashboard.
• "There is a smell coming from the engine compartment," often indicating burning oil.

Upon inspection, technicians may find:

• A "Leak in the area around the cylinder head cover, valve cover, and cylinder head."
• A "Leak in the area around the injector."
• A "Leak in the area around the Audi valvelift system actuator."

These symptoms, including an Audi Q8 oil leak cylinder head, point to the need for a thorough inspection by a qualified technician.

Technical Background

The root cause of this oil leak has been identified as metal shavings produced during the manufacturing process. These shavings can interfere with the sealing groove between the cylinder head cover and the cylinder head, leading to oil seepage. Audi has implemented improved production processes to prevent this issue in newer vehicles.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure for Audi Cylinder Head Oil Leaks

To accurately diagnose and repair an Audi Q8 oil leak cylinder head or similar issues on other affected models, technicians will follow a detailed procedure outlined in TSB 2053278/5:

1. Initial Access: The engine compartment cover and the heat shield below it are removed to gain access to the cylinder head area.
2. Noise Insulation Removal: The upper noise insulation of the affected cylinder bank is removed.
3. Valvelift System Actuator Inspection: The Audi valvelift system actuator is removed. If a significant amount of oil is found beneath the actuator, the leak is attributed to the O-ring of the Audi valvelift system actuator. In this case, the O-ring is replaced, the engine compartment is cleaned, and any oil-soaked noise insulation is replaced.
4. Further Inspection (if needed): If no substantial oil is found under the valvelift system actuator, the lower noise insulation is removed. The technician then locates the affected cylinder, looking for oil accumulation around the injector and oil-soaked noise insulation.
5. Cylinder Head Cover and Seal Removal: The cylinder head cover and its seal are removed.
6. Gasket Groove Inspection: The gasket groove in the cylinder head cover is carefully inspected for any casting residues, which are then removed using a suitable tool, such as a small flat screwdriver. Technicians are advised to be careful not to damage the seal groove during this step.
7. Reassembly: A new seal is installed, the camshaft cover is re-assembled, and the engine compartment is cleaned. Any noise insulation that was soaked in oil is replaced.

Important Warnings

Owners and technicians should note a critical instruction from the TSB:

• "Do not replace the Audi valvelift system actuator(s) with an O-ring seal when the leak has been determined to be around the area of the injector(s)." This highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis to ensure the correct repair is performed.

Required Parts

Depending on the specific cause of the oil leak, the following parts may be required for the repair:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws (consult ETKA for specific requirements)
• Solenoid valve, if applicable (Part Number: 06M906048F)
• Gasket Cylinders 1-3, if applicable (Part Number: 06M103650D)
• Gasket Cylinders 4-6, if applicable (Part Number: 06M103649D)
• Coolant concentrate 1.5L, if applicable (Part Number: G 12E100M2)

Warranty Information

Repairs performed under TSB 2053278/5 are typically covered under Audi's new vehicle limited warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, coverage is designated as G10. If your vehicle is outside of warranty coverage, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance for repairs.

Specific service numbers for warranty claims include:

• 1580: For leaks identified at the injector.
• 1551: For leaks identified at the Audi valvelift system actuator.

Corresponding damage codes are 0050 for service number 1580 and 0010 for service number 1551. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing symptoms of an oil leak, such as an "Oil level warning (too low)" or a burning smell, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealership. They can perform the necessary diagnostic procedures as outlined in TSB 2053278/5 to determine the exact source of the leak and carry out the appropriate repair.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10186508