2019-2021 Audi Q8 Loose Wheel Arch Trim TSB

Symptoms

Owners of 2019-2021 Audi Q8, 2020-2021 SQ8, and RS Q8 vehicles may notice that the wheel arch trim over either rear wheel is loose. Specifically, the customer may report that "The wheel arch trim over either rear wheel is loose, specifically the section of the trim affixed to the door." This condition indicates a problem with the trim's adhesion, making the trim appear detached or improperly seated.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings confirm that the primary cause of the 2019-2021 Audi Q8 loose wheel arch trim is a failed bond for this specific section of the wheel arch trim. The original bonding material can debond, leading to the trim becoming loose. Technicians will visually inspect the rear wheel arch trim for any signs of detachment or improper fitment. Figures within the TSB document illustrate a loose wheel arch trim section and alternative views of a debonded rear wheel arch trim, guiding technicians in identifying the issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the 2019-2021 Audi Q8 loose wheel arch trim issue, as outlined in TSB 2064998/1, technicians are instructed to replace the affected wheel arch trim. The repair process, detailed in the ElsaPro system, emphasizes meticulous surface preparation of the bonding area on the door. It is crucial to ensure the surface is entirely free of any contaminants that could compromise the adhesion of the new wheel arch trim section. After replacing the trim on the affected side, technicians must also inspect the bonding integrity of the wheel arch trim on the opposite side of the vehicle and address it if necessary to prevent future issues. Audi notes that the trim bonding process has been improved in production for newer vehicles.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, specific parts and special tools are necessary. Always check with your Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins.

Parts:

• 4M8854819A: Wheel cover left rear door - Primed (Quantity: 01)
• 4M8854819C: Wheel cover left rear door - Primed (RS Q8) (Quantity: 01)
• 4M8854820A: Wheel cover right rear door - Primed (Quantity: 01)
• 4M8854820C: Wheel cover right rear door - Primed (RS Q8) (Quantity: 01)

Tools:

• 3356: Roller, used for applying pressure during bonding.
• VAS 1978/14A: Wiring Harness Repair Set – Hot Air Blower, likely used for heat activation or curing of adhesives.
• T10383: Wedge Set, used for prying or positioning components during the repair.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Service Number for this operation is 6645, and the Damage Code is 0018.

Labor Operations:

• 6645 1902: Rear wheel housing cover – rear door, remove and reinstall. This operation refers to the repair of one side and requires consulting the Service Repair Time (SRT) for associated operations.
• 6645 2002: Rear wheel housing cover – both rear doors, remove and reinstall. This operation covers both sides and also requires consulting the SRT.

Sublet Operations:

• A000 1600: Paint new part. This is for painting the new wheel arch trim and has a maximum allowance of $87.00, listed as an Outside Labor operation.

Diagnostic Time:

• GFF: General Function Test (0 TU - No allowance)
• Road test prior to the service procedure (0 TU - No allowance)
• Road test after the service procedure (0 TU - No allowance)

The claim comment for this TSB is "As per TSB #2064998/1". All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

NHTSA Source: TSB 2064998/1