2025 Audi A5/Q5/S5 Drivetrain Clacking Noises TSB

TSB Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin, Transaction No. 2080535/2, was initially published on December 18, 2025, as Revision 1. A subsequent Revision 2 was issued on January 30, 2026, which included a revised header and added information about the software version.

Symptoms

Owners of certain 2025 Audi A5, S5 (FU), Q5, Q5 Sportback, SQ5, and SQ5 Sportback (GU) models may experience clacking noises from the drivetrain. These noises typically appear to come from the gearbox area. They are most noticeable when the vehicle is being driven slowly, under 20 mph, such as in stop-start traffic or during maneuvering and parking.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings confirm that these clacking noises from the drivetrain can be consistently reproduced. Diagnostic tools have traced the source of the noise directly to the all-wheel drive coupling. This indicates a specific mechanical interaction or control issue within the all-wheel drive system.

Important Warnings and Owner Advisories

Audi emphasizes several critical points for both technicians and owners regarding this TSB.

First, technicians are instructed to reproduce the customer complaint based on the description and cause outlined in TSB 2080535/2. The repair, which involves a software update, must only be performed if all specified criteria are met. These criteria include the correct model/type, chassis number, engine/motor, gearbox code, PR number(s), part number, and software version. Failure to adhere to these conditions means the solution may not resolve the problem, potentially leading to repeat repairs. In such cases, the warranty claim may be rejected, and the cost of parts may be charged back to the dealership.

Second, for vehicles with engine control units modified by chip tuning, owners must be aware that performing this Audi software update may render the chip tuning ineffective. In some circumstances, the software update could even damage the engine control unit. Owners with chip-tuned vehicles should consult their tuning company in advance to determine if a software update is possible. Audi AG will not cover warranty claims for damage to the engine control unit resulting from chip tuning. Furthermore, neither Audi AG nor the dealership will be held responsible for damage caused by the software update or for damage that occurs as a result of not having the update performed. It is crucial to document this discussion on the repair order before the customer signs it.

Repair Procedure Summary

The primary solution for the 2025 Audi clacking noises drivetrain issue is a software update. This update utilizes optimized software specifically designed to address the behavior of the all-wheel drive coupling, which is identified as the source of the clacking noises.

Technicians are directed to perform the software update as described in Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2079690. The specific software version to be applied is "00 Combined software update 03.10.00/C (28.13.01) KD2." This procedure involves connecting a battery charger to maintain stable voltage during the update process. The overall process includes preliminary work, ensuring the vehicle enters a proper bus sleep cycle, and potentially performing calibration drives after the update to ensure optimal system function.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2080535/2 outlines specific warranty claim procedures. If the vehicle is outside of any warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only.

The service number associated with this issue is 3960, and the damage code is KD02.

Labor Operations and Time Units (TU):

• 0151 0010: Software update, including connecting a battery charger. This operation refers to the Service Repair Time (SRT) with associated operations.
• 0151 0040: Fixed rate for the complete software update, which includes all required preliminary and follow-up work such as ensuring a proper bus sleep cycle and performing calibration drives. This operation is allocated 130 TU.
• 0150 9999: In cases where additional attempts are needed due to a flash abort during the software update, an additional lump sum of 50 TU can be claimed per each documented flash cancellation.

All warranty claims must comply with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty. When performing the combined software update, time stamps are not required for billing under warranty, allowing technicians to work on other vehicles simultaneously. The combined software update can also be performed by non-productive personnel. The claim comment should reference "As per TSB 2080535/2".

Owner Action

If your 2025 Audi A5, Q5, S5, or SQ5 is experiencing clacking noises from the drivetrain as described, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. Inform them about the specific symptoms and mention Technical Service Bulletin 2080535/2. The dealership will diagnose the issue and perform the necessary software update to resolve the problem.

NHTSA ID: 11028476