2025-2026 Audi A5/S5/Q5/SQ5 Drivetrain Clacking Noise TSB

Symptoms of Drivetrain Clacking Noises

Owners of certain 2025-2026 Audi A5, S5, Q5, and SQ5 models may notice unusual 'load-change clacking noises from drive train'. These noises are typically heard when the vehicle is driven at slow speeds, specifically under 20 mph. Common scenarios where the Audi drivetrain clacking noises become apparent include stop-start traffic, maneuvering, or parking.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Audi workshops have identified that these clacking noises can be consistently reproduced during diagnostic testing. Technicians can trace the source of the noise to the all-wheel drive coupling using standard diagnostic tools. The TSB confirms that these noises are directly related to load changes within the drivetrain system.

Important Warning for Owners and Technicians

Audi has issued a critical notice within TSB 2080535/1 regarding the proper application of this service action. It states: "Try to reproduce the customer complaint (based on the description/cause of the issue), so that it can be clearly assigned to this TSB. The following must not be carried out if the patterns (model/type, chassis number, engine/model, gearbox code, PR code(s), part number, software version, code, etc.) apply exactly. Otherwise, this solution will not eliminate the problem and repeat repairs may be necessary. In such a case, the warranty claim may be rejected, and the cost of the parts may be charged back."

This warning emphasizes the critical importance of accurate diagnosis. Technicians are instructed to meticulously reproduce the customer's complaint and ensure that all vehicle parameters—including model, type, chassis number, engine, gearbox code, PR codes, part numbers, and software versions—exactly match the conditions described in TSB 2080535/1. Failing to adhere to these precise guidelines means the software update may not resolve the 'Audi drivetrain clacking noises' issue. Furthermore, if the repair is performed on a vehicle that does not meet the specified criteria, any subsequent warranty claims related to this issue could be rejected, and the owner might be charged for the parts and labor.

Repair Procedure Summary

The primary solution for the 'load-change clacking noises from drive train' is a software update. This update is detailed in a separate Technical Service Bulletin, TSB 2079690, and is referred to as "Combined software update 03.10.00/C (26.13.01) KDZ."

To perform this repair, technicians will connect the vehicle to specialized diagnostic equipment. A battery charger will be connected to ensure stable voltage throughout the software flashing process. Audi specifies a fixed rate for this software update, which covers all necessary preliminary and follow-up work, including managing the bus sleep cycle and performing calibration drives. In situations where a flash abort occurs during the update, additional labor time can be claimed for subsequent attempts to ensure the successful installation of the software. This software update aims to optimize the drivetrain's operation and eliminate the Audi drivetrain clacking noises.

Warranty Information

For vehicles experiencing the Audi drivetrain clacking noises and covered under warranty, the claim type is generally informational. The service number associated with this TSB is 3960, and the damage code is KD02.

Labor operations for this service include:

• 0151 0010: Software update, including connecting a battery charger. This operation is linked to SRT (Standard Repair Time) with associated operations.
• 0151 0040: Fixed rate for the software update, covering all required preliminary and follow-up work, such as bus sleep cycle management and calibration drives. This is allocated 130 time units (TU).
• 0150 9999: For additional attempts after a flash abort, an extra lump sum of 50 time units can be claimed per documented attempt.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. Audi states that when performing the combined software update, time stamps are not required for billing under warranty, allowing technicians to work on other vehicles simultaneously. The combined software update can also be performed by non-productive personnel.

Owner Action

If your 2025-2026 Audi A5, S5, Q5, or SQ5 is exhibiting 'load-change clacking noises from drive train', particularly at low speeds, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi dealership. Inform them about the specific symptoms and mention Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2080535/1. The dealership technicians will diagnose the issue and perform the necessary software update to resolve the Audi drivetrain clacking noises.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11027426, Manufacturer Communication: 2080535/1