2016-2025 Audi Quattro Droning Noises TSB 2075681/5

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2075681/5, effective August 15, 2025, to provide guidance on diagnosing and resolving droning noises and vibrations in various models equipped with PR number GH4 (quattro with ultra technology). This bulletin, which has undergone several revisions, including Revision 5 on the release date, aims to help technicians accurately identify and fix these specific drivetrain-related concerns.

Symptoms of Droning Noises and Vibrations

Owners may notice several symptoms related to this issue, often indicating a problem within the vehicle's drivetrain or all-wheel drive system. These symptoms can be particularly pronounced under certain driving conditions.

Common customer complaints and workshop findings include:

• Audible noises from the drivetrain, gearbox, driveshaft, or rear final drive when accelerating quickly from a standstill with the wheels turned.
• Vibrations and noises felt within the vehicle interior or on the rear seats when the steering wheel is turned to full lock.
• Noises originating from all-wheel drive coupling 1 of the 7-speed dual clutch gearbox.
• Noises that occur while driving in a straight line, especially on wet roads.
• Noises traced specifically to the rear final drive or driveshaft area.
• Vibration that can be reproduced on the rear seat.

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose the source of the Audi A6 droning noises or vibrations, technicians are instructed to first confirm the complaint. The TSB 2075681/5 notes that the issue often subsides when the all-wheel drive coupling is not engaged.

Technicians must determine the precise steering angle (full lock or near full lock) at which the complaint is most clearly reproducible. This specific steering angle should then be maintained during the subsequent test plan procedure. The diagnostic process involves using the ODIS tester and expanding the test plan by entering reference number 2074883 to access the program "0022 - Function test of clutch for frictional vibration."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 2075681/5 involves a specialized road test designed to activate and assess the all-wheel drive clutch unit. This test requires specific conditions and equipment.

1. Preparation: Drive the vehicle to a safe, cordoned-off area where it is possible to drive in circles with the steering wheel at full lock. The vehicle must reach operating temperature.
2. ODIS Tester Setup: Connect the ODIS tester while the vehicle is stationary. Expand the test plan by entering reference number 2074883 to add the suggested program "0022 - Function test of clutch for frictional vibration." It is crucial to Do NOT search for the test plan via 'Select self test.'
3. Test Execution: Start the test, selecting a target torque of 150 Nm. Drive the vehicle in circles at a maximum speed of 10 km/h (6 mph) until the all-wheel drive coupling temperature reaches approximately 240°C. This process may take several minutes.
4. Post-Test Check: After completing the test, check the event memory for the entry "C05DC00 4WD/AWD Clutch Temperature Too High" in the all-wheel drive electronics and erase it if necessary. If the Audi A6 droning noises persist, the driving process must be repeated after the all-wheel drive coupling has cooled down completely.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

This TSB includes critical safety warnings and procedural instructions that must be strictly followed to ensure safety and effective repair.

• Distracted Driving Risk: "Using application programs while driving can distract the driver from the road. If the driver is distracted, this can lead to accidents and injuries. Observe the road traffic regulations. They have priority over any driving instructions. Always perform the program with a second person who operates the test equipment. Make sure that test equipment in the vehicle does not distract the driver."
• Unsecured Test Equipment: "Danger due to the transportation of unsecured test equipment. If test equipment is transported unsecured or in the range of airbags, this could cause injuries in certain maneuvers or in the event of an accident. Make sure that the test equipment is secured properly. Do not transport test equipment in areas in which airbags inflate. If possible, use test equipment on the rear seat bench. If there is no rear seat bench, keep test equipment flat on the passenger's lap. The passenger must operate the equipment. Move the passenger seat as far back as possible."
• Test Plan Selection: Technicians are explicitly warned: "Do NOT search for the test plan via 'Select self test.'" Using the incorrect method could lead to an improper diagnosis or repair.
• Warranty Rejection: If all criteria (model/type, chassis number, engine/gearbox code, PR number(s), part number, software version, code etc.) are not precisely met, "this measure will not eliminate the problem and repeat repairs may be necessary. In such a case, we may reject the warranty claim and charge back the cost of the parts."

Warranty Information

For vehicles outside of warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin is informational only. For in-warranty repairs, claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

• Service Number: 3960
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Measure all-wheel drive clutch unit (four-wheel drive overheating): 3960 0399 (30 TU)
  • Road test prior to the service procedure: 0121 0002 (10 TU)
  • Road test after the service procedure: 0121 0004 (10 TU)
  • Charge battery: 2706 8950 (See SRT with associated operations)

All part and service references in TSB 2075681/5 are subject to change. Always consult with your Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11022669