2021-2026 Audi A3/Q3/TT Steering Noises TSB 2047758/13

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2047758/13 to address customer complaints regarding various noises emanating from the steering and suspension system. This TSB, last revised on October 1, 2025, specifically targets cracking, clattering, and squeaking noises that owners of 2021-2026 Audi A3, Q3, and TT models might experience during steering or maneuvering.

This bulletin provides a detailed procedure for technicians to diagnose and rectify these Audi A3 steering noises, ensuring a more comfortable driving experience. It's important to note that while these noises can be bothersome, Audi classifies them as a comfort-related complaint, and the proper functioning of the vehicle's steering and suspension system is not affected.

TSB Revision History

Technical Service Bulletin 2047758/13 has undergone several revisions to ensure accuracy and completeness. The latest version, Revision 13, incorporated an update to the header to include additional model year information. Prior to this, Revision 12, dated July 27, 2024, revised the header, updated the condition description, and refined the service information. An earlier Revision 11, dated June 29, 2024, also updated the header. The official release date for this TSB is October 1, 2025.

Symptoms Owners May Experience

Owners of affected 2021-2026 Audi A3, Q3, and TT vehicles may report various types of noises related to the chassis and suspension components. These noises are generally described as cracking, clattering, or squeaking when steering or maneuvering the vehicle.

Specific complaints logged by Audi include:

• Chassis Damping/Suspension Regulation: Deflecting components leading to general noises, vibrations -> noise.
• Chassis Wheel Suspension, Suspension, Damping: Issues with the shock absorber cap, potentially due to contamination -> dirty conditions.
• Entire Vehicle Front Area: Reports of noises, vibrations -> snapping, noises, vibrations -> too loud, or general noises, vibrations -> noise originating from the front of the vehicle.

These noises can manifest under different conditions:

• Wheels Under Load: When the vehicle is on the ground, the noise can be reproduced and occurs while the wheels are under load.
• Wheels Not Under Load: If the vehicle's suspension is settled on a lifting platform, the noise may only be heard when the wheels are not under load.

Workshop codes further specify these complaints, pointing to chassis -> wheel suspension, suspension, damping -> bumper rubber buffer causing noises, vibrations -> noise at both the left front and right front positions.

Technical Background

Audi classifies the issue of Audi A3 steering noises and similar complaints in other models as a comfort-related concern. It is crucial to understand that the correct functioning of the vehicle's steering and suspension system is not compromised by these noises.

The primary causes identified for these noises are:

• Bump Stop Contact: The bump stop for the shock absorber (labeled as '1' in Figure 1) can generate noise if it makes contact with the front shock absorber cap (labeled as '2').
• Piston Rod Rubbing: Noises may also occur if the bump stop rubs against the piston rod (labeled as '3') during steering maneuvers.
• Stick-Slip Effect: A stick-slip effect, which is considered a normal condition, can occur in the area of the shock absorber on the seal of the piston rod.

There is no specific production solution for this issue, meaning the problem is addressed through the service procedure outlined in this TSB.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi provides critical guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the repair and to prevent recurrence of the Audi A3 steering noises:

• Exclusive Grease Use: Technicians must use only silicone grease G 000405A2 for this procedure. If the bump stop has previously been treated with any other lubricant, simply reapplying G 000405A2 will not resolve the issue. In such cases, the bump stops must be replaced entirely, and only new bump stops greased with G 000405A2 should be installed.
• Related TSBs: For other noises originating from the front axles, technicians are advised to consult TSB 2053136 and TSB 2043424, if applicable to the specific model.
• Diagnostic Tools: The PICO tool, detailed in TSB 2070568, or another noise analysis tool, can be used to accurately identify the specific component causing the noises.
• Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is outside its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, meaning the repair may not be covered by Audi.

Detailed Repair Procedure

The repair procedure focuses on lubricating specific components of the front suspension to eliminate the cracking, clattering, or squeaking noises. This process involves careful handling and application of the specified silicone grease.

1. Accessing the Bump Stop: Begin by pushing the dust boot of the suspension strut upwards. This provides access to the bump stop and its mounting area.
2. Disengaging the Bump Stop: Carefully pull the bump stop (labeled '1' in Figure 1, which illustrates the bump stop and shock absorber cap) down and out of its guide on the suspension strut mounting.
3. Initial Lubrication: Apply 2.5 grams of silicon grease G 000 405 A2 to the area between the bump stop and the piston rod (labeled '3' in Figure 2, which shows the piston rod and the lubrication process). Distribute the grease evenly using circular and vertical movements to ensure complete coverage.
4. Re-seating the Bump Stop: Once lubricated, push the bump stop back into its guide on the suspension strut mounting.
5. Secondary Lubrication: Lightly lubricate the contact surface between the bump stop for the shock absorber (1) and the front shock absorber cap (2). This contact surface is typically indicated by a red dotted line in Figure 1. Apply an additional 2.5 grams of silicone grease G 000 405 A2 to each side of this contact area.
6. Final Check: Ensure that the dust boot of the shock absorber (as shown in Figure 3, illustrating the dust boot) is correctly seated in the suspension strut mounting after the lubrication procedure is complete.

Required Parts and Tools

To perform this service, specific parts and tools are required:

• Silicone Grease:
  • G 000405A2: This is the primary silicone grease required for the lubrication procedure (Quantity: 1).
  • G 000405S0: This part number is specifically for use in the SAGA warranty claim system only.
• Fasteners: Any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws should be obtained as specified in the repair manual, referencing ETKA/ELSA for correct part numbers.
• Diagnostic Tools (Optional): The PICO tool (referenced in TSB 2070568) or another suitable noise analysis tool may be used to assist in identifying the exact source of the noise.

Warranty Claim Information

For repairs performed under warranty, the following details are provided for claim submission:

• Claim Type: If the vehicle is outside of its warranty coverage, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.
• Service Number: 4098
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:

Operation	Code	Time Units (TU)
Lubricate both front rubber stops	4098 5099	30
Road test prior to service procedure	0121 0002	10
Road test after service procedure	0121 0004	10

• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2047758/13

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Next Steps for Owners

If you are experiencing Audi A3 steering noises or similar cracking, clattering, or squeaking sounds in your 2021-2026 Audi A3, Q3, or TT, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. Provide them with the Technical Service Bulletin number 2047758/13 to ensure they are aware of the specific procedure for addressing this comfort-related concern.

NHTSA ID: 10255474