2021-2026 Audi Q7/Q8 Steering Noises TSB 2070913/2

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2070913/2 to address customer complaints regarding noises and vibrations emanating from the steering system and intermediate steering shaft in various models. This TSB applies to 2021-2026 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles, providing a detailed solution for technicians.

The bulletin, released for publishing on August 1, 2025, outlines a specific repair that involves modifying the intermediate steering shaft. Owners experiencing Audi Q8 steering noises or similar symptoms in affected models should be aware of this technical guidance.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice distinct noises and vibrations related to the steering system. Common complaints include:

• Squeaking noises from the foot well area when steering.
• Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or column.
• General noise originating from the steering assist system.
• Squeaking from the bottom of the steering column.

These symptoms are typically reproducible by workshop technicians, confirming the presence of an issue within the steering assembly.

Technical Background

The root cause of the Audi Q8 steering noises and associated vibrations has been identified as a rubber ring. This rubber ring, located on the intermediate steering shaft, can rub against the sealing boot. This friction generates the undesirable squeaking and vibrating sounds reported by vehicle owners.

Audi has implemented a production change from July 1, 2025, onward to address this issue in newly manufactured vehicles. For vehicles produced before this date, a service procedure is required to correct the condition.

Important Warnings

When performing the repair outlined in TSB 2070913/2, technicians are advised of a critical step:

• NOTICE: Please do not slide the rubber ring on the shaft. The sealing boot may be moved on the shaft.

This warning emphasizes the importance of precise execution during the repair to prevent further issues or damage to the sealing boot.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process detailed in TSB 2070913/2 involves a straightforward modification to the intermediate steering shaft. Technicians will perform the following steps:

1. Remove the intermediate steering shaft from the vehicle. This component is then placed on a workbench for the necessary modification.
2. Modify the rubber ring: Using a knife, the rubber ring on the sleeve side of the intermediate steering shaft is carefully cut off at a 45-degree angle. This modification eliminates the contact point that causes the noise.
3. Reinstall the modified intermediate steering shaft back into the vehicle.

This procedure directly addresses the friction issue by altering the rubber ring, thereby resolving the Audi Q8 steering noises.

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, claims submitted for this repair must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The TSB specifies the following codes for warranty claims:

• Service Number: 4816
• Damage Code: 0020

Specific labor operations and their associated times are provided:

• Remove and install intermediate steering shaft: Labor operation 4816 1900
• Modify intermediate steering shaft: Labor operation 4816 4999 (15 Time Units (TU))
• GFF (Guided Fault Finding): Labor operation 0150 0060 (Time stated on the diagnostic protocol)
• Charge Battery: Labor operation 2706 8950
• Road test after the service procedure: Labor operation 0121 0004 (10 TU)

It is important to note that if a vehicle is outside its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

Required Tools or Parts

For the repair, technicians will need standard fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws as required per the repair manual. Specific part numbers for these items should be referenced in ETKA (Elektronischer Teilekatalog) and ELSA (Elektronisches Service Auskunftssystem) for the latest information.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2026 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, or RS Q8 and are experiencing squeaking or vibrating Audi Q8 steering noises, it is recommended to contact your authorized Audi dealership. Inform them about the symptoms you are encountering and mention Technical Service Bulletin 2070913/2. Your dealership will be able to diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repair as outlined in the TSB.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 11022636