2019-2021 Audi Q8 / SQ8 / RS Q8 Roof Cracking Noise TSB

Owners of 2019-2021 Audi Q8, 2020-2021 SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles may notice an audible 'cracking' or 'snap' type of noise emanating from the right rear roof area. This Audi Q8 roof cracking noise typically occurs during abrupt steering maneuvers or when the vehicle's body flexes. Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 51 23 27 2060145/5 to provide a diagnostic and repair procedure for this specific condition. This bulletin, dated April 27, 2023, supersedes previous TSB Group 51 number 21-22 dated May 11, 2021, incorporating updated work procedures and warranty information.

Symptoms of Roof Cracking Noise

If you own an Audi Q8, SQ8, or RS Q8, you might experience a specific Audi Q8 roof cracking noise in the cabin. Customers report hearing a noise specifically in the right rear roof area of the cabin with an abrupt steering thrust or when the vehicle is flexed. The noise is characterized as a 'cracking' or 'snap' type of noise.

Workshop technicians have diagnosed this noise as originating from the right rear-most area of the sunroof opening, specifically within the roof structure.

Technical Background

Audi's technical analysis indicates that the 'cracking noises in right rear roof area during steering thrust' stem from the current structural tolerances between the roof panel and the roof support sheet metal. These tolerances can cause the components to flex intermittently under driving conditions, particularly during acute steering maneuvers, leading to the audible cracking or snapping sounds.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi has issued specific instructions regarding this repair:

• "If the noise cannot be duplicated during a test drive with the customer do not perform the repair in this TSB."
• "Be certain that the noise type and the location are clearly attributable to the issue described in the Technical Background section of this TSB."
• "The following work procedure must only be carried out if the symptom described has been duplicated and the source of the noise is as described in the Technical Background."
• "Perform the following work procedure on the affected area only (right rear-most area of the sunroof opening). It is not necessary for this procedure to be performed additionally on the left rear-most corner."
• "Use extreme caution in the following steps so as not to damage the outer roof sheet metal in any way."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Audi Q8 roof cracking noise, as detailed in TSB 51 23 27 2060145/5, involves addressing the structural tolerances in the right rear roof area. The procedure includes:

1. Disassembly: Remove the headliner and the sliding sunroof assembly. The repair focuses solely on the right rear-most area of the sunroof opening.
2. Separation of Sheet Metal: The outer roof sheet metal needs to be separated from the inner roof support. This is achieved by striking the area with a plastic mallet. If the adhesive is difficult to separate, a small screwdriver or chisel may be used carefully. The goal is to create a gap of approximately 1mm.
3. Cavity Filling: Once the gap is created, the cavity is filled with 08852 Cavity Wax Plus.
4. Testing and Reassembly: After applying the wax, the vehicle is test-driven to ensure the noise has been eliminated. The vehicle is then reassembled.
5. Sunroof Adaptation: Following reassembly, it is crucial to set the sunroof panel and rollershade end stop adaptation using the sunroof panel and rollershade switches. Reference TSB 2054505, titled "60 Sunroof glass panel or sunroof rollershade do not operate," for detailed instructions on this step.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this repair, the following materials are specified:

• Cavity Wax: 3M 08852 Cavity Wax Plus (Shop Supply). This product is available through the Audi Top Service Supplies & Touch Up Paint eStore.
• Fasteners: Fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws are to be used as needed per the Repair Manual. Technicians should consult ETKA/ELSA for specific requirements.
• Tools: A plastic mallet is required for separating the sheet metal. A small screwdriver or chisel may be needed if the adhesive proves stubborn.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under warranty for eligible vehicles. The claim type is 110, applicable for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. If the vehicle falls outside this warranty period, the Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

The following codes are used for warranty claims:

• Service Number: 5103
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Headliner remove and reinstall: 7084 1900
  • Sunroof frame remove and reinstall: 6028 1950
  • Perform roof rework: 5103 5099 (30 TU)
  • Cavity wax applied: 5101 7552
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (No allowance, 0 TU)
• Road Test:
  • Prior to service procedure: 0121 0002 (10 TU)
  • After service procedure: 0121 0004 (10 TU)
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2060145/5.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10240360, TSB 2060145/5