2022 Audi Q7/Q8/RSQ8 Underbody Water Leak TSB 51H9

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 51H9 to address a manufacturing issue affecting certain 2022 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, and RSQ8 vehicles. This TSB, titled "51H9 UPDATE Sealing Underbody – (NVLW)", describes a condition where an unsealed paint drain hole in the front left of the underbody can allow water to enter the vehicle's interior.

This proactive update aims to prevent water ingress by ensuring proper sealing of the underbody. Owners experiencing a 2022 Audi Q8 water leak or wanting to ensure their vehicle is not affected should consult an authorized Audi dealer.

Symptoms of Underbody Water Leak

The primary symptom of this issue is water entering the vehicle interior, specifically at the front left side. Owners might notice dampness, moisture, or visible water in the footwell or other areas of the front left cabin. This condition stems from a paint drain hole on the front left of the underbody not being properly sealed due to a component change during manufacturing.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To diagnose the 2022 Audi Q8 water leak, technicians will perform a thorough inspection of the underbody. The diagnostic process involves:

• Removing the left underbody trim panel and plugs to gain access to the area.
• Visually inspecting and feeling the holes to determine if any water or moisture is present inside the underbody or side member.
• If no moisture is identified, only the sealing procedure (Step 1) is performed.
• If moisture is detected, the technician will proceed to apply wax and perform a continuity test using an ohmmeter on a moisture indicator. A continuity reading, such as 120 kOhm, confirms the presence of moisture.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair outlined in Audi TSB 51H9 involves two main steps: sealing the underbody and, if necessary, addressing existing interior moisture.

Step 1: Sealing the Underbody

This step focuses on preventing future water ingress. The technician will:

1. Remove the left underbody trim panel.
2. Remove the plugs on the left side of the underbody.
3. Clean the paint drain hole using a cleaning solution.
4. Cover the cleaned drain hole with PVC film, part number 443-817-429.
5. Apply adhesive sealant, either D-511-500-A2 or D-476-KD2-M2, over the PVC film and spread it out to ensure a complete seal.
6. Reinsert all plugs, also using adhesive sealant.
7. Reinstall the underbody trim panel.

Step 2: Applying Wax and Checking for Interior Moisture (If Applicable)

If moisture was initially detected during diagnosis, this step is performed to address it and confirm the extent of the issue. The technician will:

1. Remove the front left plug.
2. Apply wax, part number D-321-M15-M1 (if necessary), into the underbody.
3. Loosen the sill trim and pull out the moisture indicator.
4. Use an ohmmeter to perform a continuity test by placing probes on the front and rear of the sensor pad. If the ohmmeter displays O.L. (Open Line), the vehicle interior is dry. If it displays continuity (e.g., 120 kOhm), it indicates moisture.
5. If continuity is present, a Technical Assistance Center (TAC) WEB ticket will be created. This ticket will include photos of the ohmmeter measurement and any visible moisture in the interior, allowing Audi to provide further direction.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform the repair described in TSB 51H9, specific parts and tools are required:

• PVC Film: 443-817-429 (SEAL (PVC Film))
• Adhesive/Sealing Paste: D-511-500-A2 or D-476-KD2-M2 (either can be used based on availability)
• Wax (if necessary): D-321-M15-M1
• Cleaning Solution: Used for preparing surfaces.
• Ohmmeter: For conducting continuity tests on the moisture indicator.
• Suitable Scraper Tool: For removing underbody plugs.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners of affected vehicles should be aware of the following critical information regarding this service campaign:

• No Consumer Notification: Audi is NOT notifying consumers directly about this service campaign. Owners must proactively contact their dealer to check their vehicle's eligibility.
• Eligibility Verification: The repair procedure is only valid for vehicles that display the 51H9 code in the Elsa Campaign/Action Information screen on the day of repair. The Elsa system is the only valid and binding source for verifying vehicle eligibility; other systems are not accepted and may result in non-payment of a claim.
• Prior Safety Recalls: All outstanding Safety Recalls must be completed before this campaign can be performed.
• No Loaner/Wash Claims: Dealers are instructed not to claim vehicle wash or loaner services under this specific action.
• Dealer Inventory: The procedure must be performed on applicable vehicles in dealer inventory prior to sale.
• Warranty Helpline: For any questions regarding the campaign, U.S. owners can contact the Warranty Helpline, and Canadian owners can contact the Warranty Campaign Specialist.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, or RSQ8 and are concerned about a potential 2022 Audi Q8 water leak or wish to have your vehicle inspected, you should contact an authorized Audi dealer. Provide them with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and reference Technical Service Bulletin 51H9. The dealer can check the Elsa system to confirm if your vehicle is eligible for this update.

This service campaign is active until June 1, 2027, and billing is possible until June 30, 2027. The repair should be performed free of charge under warranty if your vehicle qualifies for the campaign.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10238242