2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT Brake Disc Hotspots TSB

Owners of 2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT models equipped with tungsten carbide brake discs may notice visual changes on their brake components. Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 46 24 56 2073824/1, issued on May 2, 2024, addresses concerns regarding "Hotspots / discoloration visible on the friction surface of the brake disc."

This TSB clarifies that while these visual anomalies may be noticeable, they are considered a cosmetic issue and do not indicate a functional problem with the brake system. The information provided in this bulletin is crucial for understanding the nature of this phenomenon and avoiding unnecessary repairs.

Symptoms

Owners primarily report seeing "Hotspots / discoloration visible on the friction surface of the brake disc." This visual change can appear as uneven color or patterns on the brake disc surface. Despite these visible marks, workshop inspections confirm that there are no abnormalities in the brake disc's axial run-out, indicating that the physical integrity and performance of the disc remain unaffected.

Technical Background

The appearance of hotspots and discoloration on the tungsten carbide brake discs is a result of thermal stress. Brake discs are subjected to various influences during operation, and one significant factor is the heat generated from friction. Depending on an individual's driving style, temperatures can rise to levels that cause a change in the top layer of the tungsten carbide brake disc material. This phenomenon, while visually apparent, is a normal characteristic of the brake disc's design under certain thermal conditions.

Audi emphasizes that this is purely a visual complaint. The presence of these hotspots or discoloration does not compromise the braking performance or safety of the vehicle. Therefore, the Audi e-tron GT brake disc hotspots are not a sign of a malfunction.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2073824 explicitly states that no measures are required for this phenomenon on the friction surface of the brake discs. Furthermore, the bulletin issues a critical warning regarding part replacement:

• "Replacement of parts due to this phenomenon is not justified. In such a case, we may reject the warranty claim and charge back the cost of the parts."

This means that if a dealer replaces brake components solely based on the visual presence of hotspots or discoloration, Audi may deny the warranty claim and charge the cost of the parts back to the dealership. Owners should be aware that this TSB is informational only and is not applicable to any Audi Warranty for replacement of these parts.

What Owners Should Do

If you observe "Hotspots / discoloration visible on the friction surface of the brake disc" on your 2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT or RS e-tron GT with tungsten carbide brake discs, no action is required. This condition is considered cosmetic and does not affect the function of your vehicle's braking system. There is no repair procedure outlined in TSB 46 24 56 2073824/1 because the issue does not represent a defect or a safety concern. Do not pursue replacement of these parts, as it will not resolve any functional issue and may not be covered under warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11002228, Audi Technical Service Bulletin 46 24 56 2073824/1