2021-2023 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, Q3 Front Suspension Noise TSB

Owners of 2021-2023 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, and Q3 vehicles may experience an Audi front suspension creaking or squeaking noise when driving on uneven roads. This issue, specifically addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2043424/14, points to the front lower control arm bushings as the source of the noise. This bulletin, issued on February 21, 2023, supersedes an earlier TSB, Group 40 number 22-48, dated October 12, 2022.

Symptoms

Vehicle owners report: "creaking/squeaking noises are heard from the left front or right front area of the vehicle when it is driven on uneven roads."

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the Audi front suspension creaking is identified as the design of the rear bonded rubber bushings within the front lower control arms. These bushings feature kidney-shaped slits. When the vehicle encounters uneven road surfaces, specific areas of these bushings can come into contact, generating the characteristic creaking or squeaking sound.

Important Warning

Before proceeding with any repair based on this TSB, technicians are advised to "Try to duplicate this condition exactly. If you cannot, do not perform this TSB." This ensures that the repair is only performed on vehicles exhibiting the specific noise condition.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair outlined in TSB 2043424/14 involves lubricating the affected lower control arm bushings. The general steps are:

1. Remove Front Lower Control Arms: Both front lower control arms must be removed from the vehicle. Technicians should follow the detailed instructions provided in the Elsa Repair Manual, specifically within the Chassis >> Suspension, Wheels, Steering >> Front Suspension >> Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint section for removal and installation procedures.
2. Apply Lithium Grease: Evenly apply 0.1g of lithium grease (part number G 052 150 A2) to the kidney-shaped slits of the bonded rubber bushings. It is crucial to apply the grease only to the specified areas, as highlighted in the technical documentation, using a paintbrush for precision.
3. Reinstall Components: After greasing, all components are reinstalled according to the instructions in the Elsa manual.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this repair, the following parts are necessary:

• Lithium grease: Part number G 052 150 A2 (quantity 0.1g)
• One-time use hardware: As needed, refer to ETKA and Elsa for specific requirements.
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed, refer to ETKA and Elsa for specific requirements per the Repair Manual.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty policies for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle falls outside of warranty coverage, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Service Number: 4020

Damage Code: 0020

Labor Operations (examples):

• Front wheel track adjusted: 4488 1550
• Front wheel camber adjusted: 4489 1550
• Lowering subframe (for specific engine codes): 4007 1999
• Both lower control arms remove + reinstall (A3): 4017 2001
• Both lower control arms remove + reinstall (Q3): 4017 2000
• Grease the bonded rubber bushings: 4017 4199 (10 TU)
• Disable HV system voltage (A3 e-tron, A3 e-tron sportback): 9310 0050
• Road test prior to service procedure: 0121 0002 (10 TU)
• Road test after service procedure: 0121 0004 (10 TU)

Claim Comment: As per TSB 2043424/14

Owner Action

If your 2021-2023 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, or Q3 is exhibiting an Audi front suspension creaking or squeaking noise when driving on uneven roads, contact your authorized Audi dealership. Describe the symptoms accurately to help them diagnose the issue and refer to Technical Service Bulletin 2043424/14. The repair involves lubricating the lower control arm bushings and is typically covered under warranty if your vehicle meets the eligibility criteria.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10232092