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2016-2026 Audi Models Shock Absorber Leaks Assessment

This Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2018194/12) provides guidance for technicians to accurately assess shock absorber leaks on 2016-2026 Audi models, differentiating between true leaks and harmless oil residue.

Byeditor marcus weber2022 Audi e-tron
2022 Audi e-tron — manufacturer_communication document image 1
Source: NHTSA manufacturer_communication 11016502
2018194/1240 Shock absorber leaksAudi shock absorber leaks assessmentoily deposit on shock absorberleaking shock absorbersshock absorbers with oil markswet film of oil running down the tubelight film of dried oil or oil marks on the tube beneath the dust guard is not a clear indicator of a leaking shockReplacing the part is not necessaryIf parts are replaced without a good reason, they will be charged back
Audi A3
2022–2026
Audi A4
2021–2025
Audi A4 allroad
2021–2025
Audi A5
2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026
Audi A6
2021–2025
Audi A6 allroad
2021–2026
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Audi A7
2021–2025
Audi A7 e
2021–2022
Audi A8 L e
2021
Audi e-tron
2021, 2023
Audi e-tron GT
2022–2026
Audi e-tron Sportback
2021–2022
Audi Q3
2021–2026
Audi Q5
2021–2026
Audi Q5 e
2021, 2023, 2024, 2025
Audi Q7
2021–2026
Audi Q8
2021–2026
Audi R8
2021–2023
Audi RS 3
2022–2024
Audi RS 5
2021–2024
Audi RS 6 Avant
2021–2026
Audi RS 7
2021–2026
Audi RS e-tron GT
2022, 2023, 2024, 2026
Audi RS Q8
2021–2026
Audi S e-tron GT
2026
Audi S3
2022–2026
Audi S4
2021–2025
Audi S5
2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026
Audi S6
2021–2025
Audi S7
2021–2025
Audi S8
2021–2026
Audi SQ5
2021–2026
Audi SQ7
2021–2026
Audi SQ8
2021–2026
Audi TT
2021–2023
Audi TT RS
2021–2022
Audi TTS
2021–2023

Symptoms and Customer Complaints

Owners of 2016-2026 Audi models may report various issues related to the chassis, wheel suspension, and level control system. Common complaints include an "oily deposit" on one or more shock absorbers, general "leaks" or "oil leaking" from the vehicle rear, and concerns about the "appearance, surface" of suspension components. Some owners might also notice "noises, vibrations" originating from the level control system or vehicle rear.

TSB Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin, Transaction No. 2018194/12, has undergone several revisions to update information and model year applicability:

  • Revision 12 (Current): Revised header data, adding the latest model year.
  • Revision 11 (January 15, 2025): Revised header data, adding model years and updating service information.
  • Revision 10 (March 15, 2022): Revised header data, adding model years.

Diagnosing Audi Shock Absorber Leaks

This TSB serves as an assessment aid to help technicians accurately determine if an Audi shock absorber is truly leaking. The key is to differentiate between a functional leak and normal oil residue or marks.

  • True Leaks: A genuinely "leaking shock absorber is characterized by a wet film of oil running down the tube." This indicates a breach in the seal, allowing fluid to escape.
  • Normal Oil Marks: Conversely, "a light film of dried oil or oil marks on the tube beneath the dust guard is not a clear indicator of a leaking shock." These marks are typically residue from the manufacturing or installation process, or slight "sweating" near the seal that provides lubrication and reduces wear. Such oil marks do not negatively affect the technical properties of the shock absorber.

Technicians should refer to the "Checking Shock absorbers" section in the Elsa Repair Manual for additional diagnostic information.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Owners and technicians should be aware of specific guidelines regarding Audi shock absorber leaks:


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Frequently Asked Questions

What does an oily deposit on my Audi's shock absorber mean?
An oily deposit on your Audi's shock absorber could be either a true leak or harmless oil residue. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2018194/12) helps distinguish between a wet film of oil running down the tube (a leak) and a light film of dried oil or oil marks (normal residue).
How can I tell if my Audi's shock absorber is truly leaking?
A truly leaking shock absorber is characterized by a "wet film of oil running down the tube." If you only see a "light film of dried oil or oil marks on the tube beneath the dust guard," it's likely residue or lubrication and "Replacing the part is not necessary."
Is TSB 2018194/12 covered under warranty?
According to the bulletin, TSB 2018194/12 is informational only and is "not applicable to any Audi Warranty." This means any assessment or repair related to this bulletin would typically not be covered under standard Audi warranty terms.
What should I do if I notice oil on my Audi's shock absorbers?
If you notice an oily deposit, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by an authorized Audi service facility. They can use the guidelines in TSB 2018194/12 to properly assess whether your Audi shock absorber leaks are a concern or just normal residue.

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