2022-2026 Audi Steering Wheel Noise TSB 2073332/3

Symptoms

Owners of 2022-2026 Audi vehicles may notice a distinct Audi e-tron steering noise when turning the steering wheel. The specific types of noises reported include grinding, ticking, or squeaking sounds originating from the steering wheel or steering column area. These noises are typically reproducible when steering the vehicle.

Technical Background

Audi has identified that these steering noises are often due to manufacturing tolerances and temperature fluctuations. These factors can lead to an interaction between the steering wheel electronics and the steering wheel itself. The affected electronic components include the steering column combination switch, the coil connector with its integrated electronics, and the steering angle sender.

Important Warnings

• TSB Applicability: This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2073332/3 should only be claimed if the noise concern is resolved by adjusting or insulating the components described within the bulletin. For any other root causes, this TSB does not apply, and claims should be billed as normal service. This prevents incorrect repairs and warranty claims.
• Dynamic Steering: On vehicles equipped with dynamic steering (identified by PR number 1N8), the dynamic steering system becomes inactive if Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present. If the steering noise also disappears under these conditions, the root cause might lie within the dynamic steering system itself, not the steering wheel or column components.
• Vehicle Weight: If the steering noise can only be reproduced when the vehicle is on the ground and under its own weight, it is likely that the noise is not related to the steering column trim or the steering wheel electronics.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi e-tron steering noise involves a systematic diagnostic and repair process to pinpoint the exact source of the sound. The procedure begins by removing the steering column trim and rechecking for the noise. If this resolves the issue, the trim's installation position is adjusted or insulated as needed.

Should the noise persist, the next step involves removing the entire steering wheel electronics module. The steering wheel is then re-fitted, and the noise is reassessed. If this resolves the noise, the steering wheel electronics are refitted, and if the component is confirmed as the root cause and cannot be adjusted, it is replaced. Technicians must also ensure that the airbag, airbag harness, or steering wheel button harness are correctly routed to prevent unnecessary tension on the slip ring.

If the noise still remains, a stethoscope or similar tool is used to further isolate the precise origin of the noise within the steering system.

Warranty Information

This Technical Service Bulletin 2073332/3 is covered under Audi's warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, and owner verification is required. If the vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only.

Warranty claims must be submitted according to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. The service number for this bulletin is 9449, and the damage code is 0020. Specific labor operations include:

• Removing and installing steering column trim (labor code 7011 19xx)
• Checking and adjusting the steering column switch (labor code 9450 0699, 10 TU)
• Removing and installing the return ring (if applicable, labor code 9013 1999, 10 TU)
• Diagnostic time (GFF, labor code 0150 0060, max 100 TU)
• Charging the battery (labor code 2706 8950, 10 TU)
• Road tests before (labor code 0121 0002, 10 TU) and after (labor code 0121 0004, 10 TU) the service procedure.

All part and service references in TSB 2073332/3 are subject to change. Technicians should always consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information.

NHTSA ID: 11002277