2018-2026 Audi Models Cracking Noise TSB 2061464/11

Owners of various 2018-2026 Audi models may experience an Audi cracking noise changing direction from the front or rear of their vehicle. This issue is detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2061464/11, released on March 24, 2026. The TSB applies to a wide range of Audi vehicles, including the A3, S3, RS 3, A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sportback e-tron, Q3, e-tron, S8, e-tron Sportback, A8 e quattro, Q8 e-tron, SQ8 e-tron, A5, S5, Q5, SQ5, and A6 models.

Symptoms

Vehicle owners may notice a distinct cracking noise, particularly when changing direction or pulling off. This Audi cracking noise changing direction can originate from either the front or rear of the vehicle. For quattro-equipped Audi models, the noise from the rear is sometimes attributed to the prop shaft in isolated cases.

Technical Background

According to TSB 2061464/11, the underlying cause of the cracking noise is the relative movement between the stub axle of the drive shaft and the inside of the wheel bearing. Audi has implemented production solutions with optimized stub axle teeth in the outer joint over time to address this issue in newer vehicles.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

• Repair Conditions: The repair described in this TSB should only be performed if the customer complaint can be reproduced and clearly assigned to the conditions outlined. If the specified criteria do not apply, the repair may not resolve the issue, and the manufacturer reserves the right to reject warranty claims for repeat repairs.
• Post-Repair Driving Restriction: After the bonding procedure is completed, the vehicle must not be driven for 8 hours to allow the locking fluid to properly cure.
• Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. Any repair costs would typically be the owner's responsibility.

Repair Procedure Summary

The primary repair for the Audi cracking noise changing direction involves bonding the stub axle of the affected drive shaft to the wheel bearing using a specific locking fluid. Technicians are instructed to:

1. Reproduce the customer complaint to confirm the issue aligns with the TSB.
2. Apply approximately 5 ml of locking fluid (part number D 185400A3) as a continuous bead all the way around the stub axle, as illustrated in Figure 1 of the bulletin.
3. Refer to the Workshop Manual and ETKA for detailed instructions.
4. For vehicles with multi-link suspension, it may be sufficient to release the upper link to pull the outer joint out of the hub.
5. Ensure the vehicle is not driven for 8 hours after the bonding process.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this repair, the following specific part is required:

• Locking fluid: Part number D 185400A3

Additionally, fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws may be needed as per the Repair Manual and ETKA/ELSA.

Labor Operations

Audi TSB 2061464/11 specifies various labor operations depending on the vehicle model and whether the front or rear axle is affected. Key service numbers include 4041 for the front axle and 4221 for the rear axle, with a damage code of 0010. Specific labor operation codes like 4041 4999 (for one front outer driveshaft) and 4041 5099 (for two front outer driveshafts) are provided, along with codes for rear axle repairs (e.g., 4221 4999, 4221 5099). These operations include tasks such as removing and installing wheels, detaching and re-attaching suspension links, and cleaning components. Time spent using the Offboard Diagnostic Information System tester must be billed separately.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11030992