2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT Scraping/Knocking Noise TSB 2073030/2

Owners of 2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT models may experience an unusual Audi e-tron GT scraping noise or knocking sound emanating from the front wheel housing area, specifically near the bumper cover. This issue, addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2073030/2, points to external contamination as the root cause of these noises.

Symptoms of Scraping/Knocking Noises

Owners typically report hearing distinct noises from the front left or right side of their vehicle. These symptoms include:

• "Noise at front left/right during charging after fan has been switched on." This indicates the noise is related to the vehicle's thermal management system engaging its fans, often during or after the charging process.
• "Noise at front left/right in area of bumper cover when ignition is switched on." Similar to the charging scenario, this suggests the fans are activated upon vehicle startup, leading to the scraping or knocking sound in the bumper cover area.

Workshop findings consistently show dirt and debris in the area of the fans, confirming the external nature of the problem that leads to the Audi e-tron GT scraping noise.

Technical Background: Why the Noise Occurs

The technical background for TSB 2073030/2 explains that during normal vehicle operation, especially in unfavorable situations, external elements like dirt, stones, mud, or ice from the road surface can enter the fan housing. These contaminants typically ingress through the ventilation grilles located in the front left and right wheel housing liners.

The TSB highlights that "unfavorable situations" such as driving on unpaved roads, through construction zones, or in adverse weather conditions (rain, snow, ice) can increase the likelihood of debris accumulation. The design of the ventilation grilles in the wheel housing liners, while necessary for airflow, can inadvertently allow small particles like dirt, gravel, mud, or even ice fragments to pass through and become lodged within the fan housing. Once these foreign objects are inside, they come into contact with the high-speed rotating blades of the radiator fans, leading to the characteristic Audi e-tron GT scraping noise or knocking sound. This interference not only creates an audible nuisance but could potentially affect fan efficiency if left unaddressed.

The TSB includes visual aids to help technicians understand the issue. Figure 1 illustrates the specific area where the noise is commonly heard, focusing on the front bumper and wheel arch. Figure 2 provides a detailed view of a contaminated ventilation grille within the front wheel housing liner, showing how debris can accumulate. Figure 3 further highlights the contamination by showing a radiator fan with significant dirt buildup, visible once the wheel housing liner is removed. This visual evidence helps confirm that external debris is the primary cause of the Audi e-tron GT scraping noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

The recommended service procedure to address the Audi e-tron GT scraping noise is straightforward and involves cleaning the affected area. Technicians are instructed to:

1. Clean the area around the fan with a hose and plenty of water. This initial step aims to dislodge and remove loose dirt and debris that may be causing the noise.
2. Assess the degree of contamination. Depending on how much dirt has accumulated and how deeply it is lodged, a more intensive approach might be necessary.
3. Loosen or remove the front left/right wheel housing liner. If the contamination is significant or difficult to access with the liner in place, removing the liner provides better access to the fan area for thorough cleaning. This allows for a comprehensive removal of all foreign objects.

This cleaning process ensures that any foreign objects causing the scraping or knocking noises are removed, restoring proper fan operation and eliminating the unwanted sounds. While the TSB does not specify unique tools for this cleaning, it does emphasize consulting the vehicle's Repair Manual for detailed instructions on the removal and reinstallation of the wheel housing liner, including any specific torque specifications or one-time-use fasteners that might be involved.

Important Warranty Information

Audi has clarified that the damage leading to the Audi e-tron GT scraping noise is considered to be due to "outside influence." Consequently, this issue is explicitly "not covered by any Audi Warranty." Owners should be aware that any diagnosis or repair related to this condition would likely be at their own expense, unless covered by a separate service contract or extended warranty.

Revision History of TSB 2073030/2

This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone revisions to ensure clarity and accuracy. The initial publication, Revision 1, was released on February 15, 2024. The current version, Revision 2, was released on January 28, 2026. This revision involved changes to the text in the title, condition description, technical background, and service procedure sections, indicating refinements in how the issue is described and addressed.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11028452