2021-2023 Audi Front Brake Shield Rattling Noise TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2023 Audi models may notice a distinct "rattling/grinding noises from front end/front brake system (brake shield)". This issue is specifically addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 46 22 37 2068629/1, released on November 18, 2022. The TSB provides detailed instructions for technicians to diagnose and resolve the noise originating from the front brake shields.

This bulletin applies to a range of Audi vehicles, including the 2021-2023 Audi A3, S3, Q3, TT, TTS, and RS 3. The primary concern is the proper seating and condition of the front brake shields, which can cause audible disturbances if damaged or corroded.

Symptoms

If you own a 2021-2023 Audi model covered by this TSB, you might experience "rattling/grinding noises from front end/front brake system (brake shield)". These noises typically occur during driving and are indicative of an issue with the front brake shield's integrity or mounting.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued specific guidance regarding the inspection and repair of this condition:

• Do not replace unnecessary parts: If the front brake shields are inspected and found to have no damage or excessive corrosion, technicians are instructed not to replace them, as this will not resolve the Audi front brake shield rattling noise.
• Warranty considerations: If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period (beyond 48 months or 50,000 miles), this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. Repairs may not be covered under warranty.
• Corrosion protection for new parts: When new brake shields are installed, technicians must apply cavity preservative sealant (part number D 329 215 M1) to the mounting points and contact surfaces of the securing bolts. This prevents future corrosion that could lead to a recurrence of the Audi front brake shield rattling noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi front brake shield rattling noise involves a specific sequence of steps for technicians, as detailed in TSB 46 22 37 2068629/1 and the ELSA repair manual under "Chassis>>Brake System>>Front Brakes>>Brake Shield, Removing and Installing."

1. Wheel Removal: Both front wheels are removed to gain access to the brake components.
2. Brake Component Disassembly: The front brake calipers, brake carriers, and brake discs are carefully removed.
3. Brake Shield Inspection: Technicians thoroughly check both front brake shields for the brake discs. The shields must be securely seated and free from damage or excessive corrosion. Figure 1 in the TSB illustrates the splash plate for the brake disc and the contact surfaces of the securing bolts.
4. Replacement Decision: If damage or significant corrosion is detected, the brake shields are replaced. If no issues are found, the original brake shields are retained.
5. Brake Component Reassembly: The front brake calipers, brake carriers, and brake discs are reinstalled.
6. Wheel Reinstallation: Finally, the front wheels are reinstalled.

Required Parts and Tools

For the repair described in TSB 2068629/1, specific materials are required:

• Fasteners: Any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws should be sourced according to the ETKA parts catalog and the repair manual.
• Cavity Preservative Sealant: Part number D 329 215 M1 is required to protect new brake shields from corrosion at their mounting points. Approximately 0.1 units are needed.
• Brake Shield: If replacement is necessary, the new brake shield(s) should be ordered via ETKA (Quantity 01 or 02, depending on need).

Warranty Information

Warranty claims related to this issue are processed under specific guidelines. The claim type is 110 for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, claim type G10 applies, requiring owner verification. The service number for this procedure is 4617, with a damage code of 0015. The operation code for removing and installing the front brake disc is 4650 19XX. Diagnostic time for a road test prior to service is 10 labor units (0121 0002).

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

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Sources: NHTSA ID: 10226838, TSB 46 22 37 2068629/1