2021-2022 Audi Q7/Q8/SQ7/SQ8/RS Q8 Armrest Noise TSB

Symptoms of Armrest Creaking Noise

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles may experience a noticeable creaking noise emanating from the front center armrest. This noise typically occurs when pressure is applied, such as when a customer's arm is resting on it. This specific Audi Q8 armrest creaking noise is a common complaint addressed by Audi.

Technical Background

According to Audi TSB 72 23 50 2064920/2, the root cause of the creaking noise is the contact between the armrest and the upper section of the center console when the vehicle is under load. This friction generates the audible creaking. Audi has implemented an optimization into series production to prevent this issue in newer vehicles.

Important Warning: Do Not Replace Parts

Audi explicitly states in this Technical Service Bulletin:

"Parts replacement does not solve this issue. Claims for replaced parts will be subject to review." This means that replacing the armrest or related console components will not resolve the creaking noise and may result in warranty claims being denied. The prescribed solution involves an adjustment, not a component swap.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair outlined in Audi TSB 72 23 50 2064920/2 focuses on adjusting the fitment of the center console and armrest to eliminate the contact causing the noise. The procedure involves several steps:

1. Initial Inspection: Technicians first check the gap between the center console upper section and the storage compartment. This gap should not exceed 0.5 mm (Figure 1 in the TSB illustrates this check).
2. Disassembly: The armrest trim and the rear center console trim are removed. The center armrest itself is then removed, following instructions in the Elsa Repair Manual.
3. Adjustment: The screw securing the center console upper section is loosened (Figure 2). The center console upper section is then pulled towards the rear of the vehicle, and the screw is re-tightened. This action repositions the console to create proper clearance.
4. Reassembly and Verification: All previously removed parts are reinstalled. A final check of the gap between the center console upper section and the storage bin is performed, ensuring it is even and approximately 0.5 mm wide (Figure 3). The technician then verifies that the Audi Q8 armrest creaking noise can no longer be reproduced by pressing down on the armrest.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first, under Claim Type 110. If the vehicle falls outside of this warranty period, the Technical Service Bulletin serves as information only, and the repair costs may be at the owner's expense. The service number associated with this bulletin is 7220.

Labor Operations and Claim Details

For warranty claims related to this Audi Q8 armrest creaking noise, specific damage and labor codes must be used:

• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Armrest remove + reinstall: 7220 1900
  • Modify center console: 6817 4999
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (No allowance)
• Claim Comment: "As per TSB 2064920/2"

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

NHTSA ID: 10245684