2021-2025 Audi A3, S3, RS 3, TT, Q3 Front-End Noises TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2025 Audi models, including the A3, S3, RS 3, TT, and Q3, may experience a concerning issue: rattling grinding noises emanating from the vehicle's front end or front brake system. This problem is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2068629/2, which outlines the cause and the recommended repair procedure.

This TSB, identified as 2068629/2, supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 46 number 22-37, which was dated November 18, 2022. The current revision, dated September 10, 2024, includes updated information and model year additions.

Symptoms

The primary symptom reported by owners is "Rattling/grinding noises from the front-end." These noises are typically audible during driving and indicate an issue within the front brake system.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Upon inspection, technicians can usually reproduce the customer's reported rattling grinding noises. The root cause is identified as a loose splash plate for the brake disc on the front brake system. This looseness occurs because the mounting points on the splash plate become damaged due to corrosion.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process outlined in TSB 2068629/2 involves several steps to address the loose splash plate and prevent future corrosion:

1. Wheel Removal: Both front wheels are removed to access the brake components.
2. Brake Component Removal: The front brake calipers, brake carriers, and brake discs are carefully removed.
3. Splash Plate Inspection: Technicians will check both front brake shields (splash plates) to ensure they are securely seated and correctly positioned. Figure 1 in the TSB illustrates the splash plate with its contact surfaces for the securing bolts.
4. Splash Plate Replacement: If necessary, the corroded or damaged splash plate(s) for the brake disc(s) are replaced.
5. Reinstallation: The front brake calipers, brake carriers, and brake discs are reinstalled.
6. Wheel Reinstallation: Finally, the front wheels are reinstalled.

Required Tools or Parts

For this repair, specific parts and materials are required:

• Cavity preservative sealant: Part number D 329 215 M1. This sealant is crucial for protecting new brake shields.
• Brake shield: New brake shields are sourced via ETKA, with a quantity of 01 or 02 depending on the need.
• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws: As needed per the repair manual and ETKA.

Important Warnings and Warranty Information

Audi emphasizes a critical step during the repair: to prevent future corrosion at the mounting points of new brake shields, wax (specifically cavity preservative sealant D 329 215 M1) must be applied around the contact surfaces of the securing bolts before installation. Figure 2 in the TSB shows a securing bolt for the splash plate.

This TSB applies for warranty claims only if the mounting points on the splash plate are damaged due to corrosion, leading to a loose splash plate. Dealerships are required to attach photos clearly showing the issue in the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) ticket when billing under warranty. If splash plates are replaced without a valid reason, the cost will be charged back to the dealership.

Owner Action

If your Audi A3, S3, RS 3, TT, or Q3 from model years 2021-2025 is exhibiting rattling grinding noises from the front end, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them about the symptoms and reference TSB 2068629/2. The service number for this repair is 4617, and the damage code is 0015.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11009355