2021-2023 Audi e-tron Whirring Noises from Rear Drive

Symptoms: "Whirring noises from rear of vehicle"

Owners of certain Audi e-tron models may notice specific sounds emanating from the rear of their vehicle. The primary symptom described in Audi TSB 2074898/1 is "whirring noises and/or grinding noises from rear of vehicle". These sounds are typically heard when the vehicle is accelerating gently, specifically within the speed range of 9 to 15 mph (15 to 25 km/h). If you are experiencing these Audi e-tron whirring noises, this bulletin provides clarification.

Diagnosis and What to Expect

If you report "whirring noises from rear of vehicle" to an Audi service center, technicians will first attempt to reproduce the complaint. This ensures the noise matches the conditions described in TSB 2074898/1. For a precise analysis, the VAS tool 611015, also known as the PICO NVH tool, may be used to identify the noise. When using this tool for analysis and billing, technicians are also instructed to observe TSB 2070568.

The technical background for these Audi e-tron whirring noises indicates they are tolerance-related sounds originating from the rear electric drive. The TSB clarifies that these are normal operating characteristics.

Important Warning for Owners

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2074898/1 contains a critical instruction for technicians and, by extension, for owners. If the evaluation confirms that the whirring noise is the specific sound described in the analysis guidelines, the bulletin explicitly states: "If you determine after the evaluation that this is the whirring noise described in the analysis guidelines, please do not carry out any further analyses or repairs. This is the operating noise of the rear electric drive."

This means that if your Audi e-tron whirring noises are identified as the normal operating sound, no repair is necessary or recommended. Attempting further repairs would not resolve the characteristic noise.

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, diagnostic procedures related to TSB 2074898/1 can be processed. The Service Number associated with this bulletin is 9346, and the Damage Code is 0020. Specific labor operations are designated for the diagnostic process:

• Set-up time for PICO noise analysis tool: Labor Operation 0161 00xx
• Road test prior to the service procedure: Labor Operation 0121 0002 (10 TU)
• Road test after the service procedure: Labor Operation 0121 0004 (10 TU)

The claim comment for these operations should reference "As per TSB 2074898/1". If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11009397, TSB ID: 2074898/1