2021-2024 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, Q3 Front End Creaking Noise

Owners of 2021-2024 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, and Q3 models may experience an annoying creaking or squeaking noise coming from the front end, particularly when driving over uneven roads. This issue, detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 40 23 64 2043424/17, provides a specific repair procedure to address this common complaint. This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 40 number 23-54, dated May 8, 2023, reflecting updated information regarding warranty and parts.

Symptoms

The primary symptom reported by customers is "Creaking/squeaking noises are heard from the left front or right front area of the vehicle when it is driven on uneven roads." This Audi S3 creaking noise or similar sound in other affected models can be persistent and noticeable, especially when the suspension is actively working over bumps or rough surfaces.

Technical Background

Audi has identified the source of the creaking and squeaking noises. The rear bonded rubber bushings of the front lower control arms are designed with kidney-shaped slits. When the vehicle encounters uneven road surfaces, specific areas within these bushings (labeled A and B in Audi's diagrams) can come into contact. This contact generates the undesirable creaking/squeaking noise. The TSB provides a targeted solution to prevent this contact.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair outlined in TSB 40 23 64 2043424/17 involves a straightforward process focused on the lower control arm bushings. Technicians are instructed to:

1. Remove the Front Lower Control Arms: Both front lower control arms must be removed from the vehicle. This step requires following detailed instructions found in the Elsa repair manual, specifically under "Chassis >> Suspension, Wheels, Steering >> Front Suspension >> Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint >> Lower Control Arm, Removing and Installing."
2. Apply Lithium Grease: Once the control arms are removed, the kidney-shaped slits of the bonded rubber bushings need to be evenly greased. A precise amount (0.1g) of lithium grease, part number G 052 150 A2, is applied from above using a paintbrush. It is crucial that the grease is only applied to the specified areas within the slits to ensure effective noise reduction and proper bushing function.
3. Reinstall Components: After greasing, all components are reinstalled according to the Elsa repair manual instructions.

This targeted application of grease prevents the contact points within the bushings from rubbing together, thereby eliminating the Audi S3 creaking noise.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this repair, the following specific part is required:

• Lithium grease: Part Number G 052150A2 (Quantity: 1)
  • Note: For SAGA warranty claims, part number G 052150S0 should be used.

Additionally, one-time use hardware, fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws may be required as specified in the Elsa repair manual and ETKA parts catalog.

Warranty Information

This repair is typically covered under Audi's New Vehicle Limited Warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type G10 applies, subject to owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, and repair costs may be the owner's responsibility.

The Service Number for this procedure is 4020, and the Damage Code is 0020. Diagnostic time codes related to this repair include 4017 20XX for lower control arm removal/reinstallation, 9310 8350 for HV system deactivation/activation (for A3 e-tron models), and 4020 4299 for greasing the bushings. Road tests before (0121 0002) and after (0121 0004) the procedure also have specific time codes.

Important Warnings

Audi advises technicians to "Try to duplicate this condition exactly. If you cannot, do not perform this TSB." This ensures that the repair is only carried out when the specific creaking or squeaking noise is confirmed. Owners should also be aware that "If the vehicle is outside any warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only," meaning that Audi will not cover the cost of the repair for out-of-warranty vehicles.

What Owners Should Do

If your 2021-2024 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, or Q3 is exhibiting a front end creaking noise, especially over uneven roads, contact your authorized Audi dealership. Describe the symptoms clearly, mentioning that the noise occurs on uneven surfaces. Referencing TSB 40 23 64 2043424/17 can help ensure the dealership is aware of the specific repair procedure for this issue. The repair involves a relatively simple greasing process that should resolve the Audi S3 creaking noise.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10238321