2022-2026 Audi e-tron GT Grease from Swivel Joint TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2022-2026 Audi e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT, and S e-tron GT models may notice what appears to be grease emerging from the swivel joint on the lower suspension link. This is primarily a visual complaint, meaning the customer will not normally see it unless the vehicle is on a lifting platform or being inspected underneath.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

This condition is typically observed during an inspection of the vehicle's underbody. Technicians may notice grease emerging from the sleeve of the swivel joint on the lower suspension link, on either the left or right side. The TSB clarifies that during the assembly of suspension components like the wheel bearing housing and suspension link, grease may emerge from the sleeve when these parts are bent or moved. This grease can become liquid due to heat, making it appear as a leak. The sleeve is designed to form a seal only after the wheel bearing housing has been bolted on.

Important Warnings

Audi's TSB 40 25 91 2068702/4 provides crucial guidance for both technicians and owners:

• Do not replace any components. The TSB explicitly states that replacing parts is not necessary for this condition.
• Warranty Claims: The bulletin warns that if the problem does not precisely match the criteria outlined in the TPI (Technical Product Information), the proposed solution may not resolve the issue, potentially leading to repeat repairs and rejection of warranty claims. If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only.

Repair Procedure Summary

For the visual complaint of Audi e-tron GT grease swivel joint, the recommended service procedure is straightforward and does not involve replacing parts:

1. Clean the affected area: Thoroughly clean any grease that has emerged from the swivel joint sleeve.
2. Check the sleeve for damage: Inspect the sleeve for any signs of actual damage.

It is important to note that there is no need to reapply grease to the sleeve after cleaning, as the condition is considered normal and not indicative of a fault requiring additional lubrication or part replacement.

Warranty Information

Warranty claims related to this issue should be processed according to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The specific codes for this service are:

• Service Number: 4036
• Damage Code: 0010

Labor operations for cleaning and checking suspension links are assigned specific time units (TU):

• Clean and check 1 suspension link: 4017 2999 (20 TU)
• Clean and check 2 suspension links: 4017 3099 (30 TU)

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2026 Audi e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT, or S e-tron GT and notice grease emerging from the swivel joint during an inspection or maintenance, it is recommended to consult your authorized Audi dealer. They can confirm if the condition aligns with TSB 40 25 91 2068702/4 and perform the necessary cleaning and inspection, ensuring no unnecessary repairs are carried out. This TSB supersedes previous bulletin Group 40 number 24-71 dated January 12, 2024.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11013717