2016-2026 Audi Q5/Q7/Q8 Front Suspension Noise TSB

Owners of certain 2016-2026 Audi Q5, Q7, and Q8 vehicles may experience concerning rumbling or knocking noises originating from the front suspension. This issue, specifically described as "rumbling or knocking noises from the front of the vehicle when driving on uneven surfaces," is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2059996/6, released on October 1, 2025. This bulletin provides comprehensive guidance for technicians to diagnose and resolve the "Audi Q8 front suspension noise" and similar complaints across the affected model range.

Symptoms of Front Suspension Noise

Customers frequently report hearing distinct rumbling, knocking, thumping, or pinging sounds emanating from the front of their Audi Q5, Q7, or Q8. These noises are most noticeable when the vehicle is driven over uneven road surfaces, indicating a potential issue with suspension components reacting to road imperfections.

Workshop technicians are typically able to reproduce this specific "Audi Q8 front suspension noise" during diagnostic checks, confirming the customer's complaint and aiding in accurate troubleshooting.

Technical Background and Diagnosis

Audi's technical analysis indicates that the underlying cause of the rumbling or knocking noises can be attributed to tension within the vehicle body. This tension can manifest as loose bolted connections in critical suspension components, specifically the strut braces.

To accurately diagnose the issue, technicians are advised to first reproduce the customer's complaint. This step ensures that the identified noise directly corresponds to the problem described by the owner, allowing for precise troubleshooting and repair. The workshop findings confirm that the noise can indeed be reproduced.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 2059996/6 outlines a straightforward repair procedure focused on the front suspension's strut braces. The primary action involves a thorough inspection of the bolted connection for the two front strut braces. Technicians should carefully check for any signs of looseness in these connections.

If any looseness is detected, the bolts must be tightened to their correct torque specifications. It is crucial to consult the official Audi Workshop Manual for the precise torque values required for these connections. After tightening, the technician must reassess the complaint to confirm that the rumbling or knocking noises have been eliminated. Figure 1 in the TSB provides an example of a tower brace on an Audi Q7, illustrating the component involved in this repair.

This repair must only be carried out if all specified criteria, including the vehicle's model/type, chassis number, engine/motor and gearbox code, PR number(s), part number, software version, and other relevant codes, are met exactly. Technicians should also check the Repair Manual for any fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws that require replacement during the repair process.

Important Warnings and Warranty Information

Owners should be aware of critical information regarding this service bulletin. Audi explicitly states that "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This means that standard warranty terms may not automatically cover the diagnosis or repair unless it falls under other existing warranty provisions.

Furthermore, Audi warns that "Otherwise, this solution will not eliminate the problem and repeat repairs may be necessary. In such a case, we may reject the warranty claim and charge back the cost of the parts." This underscores the importance of proper diagnosis and adherence to the repair procedure.

For any warranty billing related to this issue, service centers are required to attach photo(s) that clearly document the complaint to DOC-IT. To ensure a valid reference to the vehicle, these images must:

• Include the VIN and date.
• Must not be edited.
• Should be in focus and taken with sufficient light.

If appropriate, the location of the problem should be marked in the photos to provide clear reference for parts analysis. Technicians must ensure that photo documentation does not show any people, faces, license plates, or customer data.

All part and service references provided in TSB 2059996/6 are subject to change and/or removal. Technicians must always check with their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins.

Revision History of TSB 2059996/6

Audi regularly updates its Technical Service Bulletins to provide the most current information. TSB 2059996/6 has undergone several revisions:

• Revision 6: The header was revised to include additional model years.
• Revision 5 (dated January 16, 2025): This revision also updated the header to include more model years and provided updated information regarding the service procedure.
• Revision 4 (dated November 15, 2024): This revision specifically addressed and removed certain claim types related to warranty information.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2016-2026 Audi Q5, Q7, or Q8 and are experiencing rumbling or knocking noises from the front suspension, especially when driving on uneven surfaces, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi service center. Explain the symptoms you are experiencing, specifically mentioning the "Audi Q8 front suspension noise" or similar descriptions, and refer to Technical Service Bulletin 2059996/6. Be prepared to discuss potential costs and warranty coverage with your service advisor, as the TSB itself is informational and not directly applicable to Audi's warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11025242