2024 Audi A4, A5, S4, S5 Rear Subframe Bearing Cracked Rubber TSB

Owners of certain 2024 Audi A4, A5, S4, and S5 models may observe a cracked rubber coating on the rear axle subframe bearing. This observation has prompted Audi to release Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2073321/1, dated March 12, 2024, to clarify the nature of this condition. The TSB aims to inform both customers and workshops that this specific issue, often described as an Audi A5 cracked subframe bearing, is not a cause for concern.

This bulletin, identified as 2073321, specifically addresses instances where the rubber coating on the rear axle subframe bearing appears cracked or has small pieces missing. While this might seem like a defect, Audi's technical assessment confirms that the integrity and performance of the vehicle are not compromised.

Symptoms

Customers or technicians might notice the following conditions related to the rear axle subframe bearing:

• Visible Cracking: A subframe bearing on the rear axle shows cracks in its rubber coating.
• Missing Rubber: Some of the rubber coating on the bearing may be missing.

Workshop findings corroborate these observations, noting that the subframe bearing is cracked on the edge, with small pieces potentially missing, as illustrated in the TSB's accompanying figures. These visual cues are the primary indicators of the Audi A5 cracked subframe condition.

Technical Background

Audi's Technical Service Bulletin 2073321/1 provides insight into the root cause of this cosmetic issue. During the pre-assembly process of the subframe, the rubber coating on the bearing can sometimes be damaged. This damage occurs when the bearing is pressed into its housing.

Crucially, Audi states that this cracked rubber does not impact the functional performance of the bearing itself. Furthermore, it does not compromise the corrosion resistance of the exposed metal. This means that despite the visual imperfection, the component's durability and safety are not affected.

Service Recommendation

Based on the technical assessment, Audi has issued a clear directive regarding this condition. The TSB explicitly states: "No work is required." This means that if a cracked rubber coating on the rear axle subframe bearing is observed, no repair, replacement, or further diagnostic steps are necessary.

Warranty Information

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2073321/1 also clarifies the warranty implications of this condition. The bulletin states: "This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This is an important distinction for owners, as it indicates that any observed cracking of the rubber coating on the rear axle subframe bearing will not be covered under Audi's warranty program, given that it is deemed a non-functional, cosmetic issue.

Important Warnings for Owners

This Technical Service Bulletin carries critical information that directly impacts owners. Audi explicitly states that for the Audi A5 cracked subframe bearing condition:

• "No replacement or further work is necessary."
• "No work is required."
• This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi Warranty.

This means that if you observe this condition on your vehicle, there is no need to seek a repair, and it will not be covered under warranty as it is not considered a defect. Owners should be aware that attempting to have this condition addressed by a dealership will likely result in the technician referring to this TSB and confirming that no action is needed.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10255476