2021 Audi Speaker Rattles, Vibrations, or Audio Interference TSB

If you own a 2021 Audi and are experiencing frustrating speaker rattles, vibrations, or other audio interference, you're not alone. Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2018187/11, issued by Audi, addresses these sound system concerns. This TSB provides diagnostic guidelines for technicians to identify and resolve the root causes of the Audi e-tron speaker rattles and similar issues across various models.

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice one or more of the following sound system symptoms:

• A cracking noise coming from one or more speakers.
• A grinding sound from the speakers.
• Rattling noises or vibrations emanating from the speakers.
• A humming or whining sound interfering with audio playback.
• General audio interference.

Fault Codes / DTCs

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2018187/11) does not specify any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference. The bulletin focuses on physical inspection and diagnostic procedures rather than electronic fault codes.

What the Service Bulletin Says

Technical Service Bulletin 2018187/11, which supersedes an earlier bulletin (18-92), outlines a diagnostic approach for technicians to address speaker-related noise issues. The bulletin suggests that these noises can stem from two primary sources:

1. Vibrating Components: Parts of the speakers themselves, such as brackets, cables, or covers, or surrounding interior fittings like door covers, rear shelves, or facings, can vibrate at certain frequencies, creating audible noises.
2. Electromagnetic Interference: The radio tuner or other control modules within the vehicle's sound system may be affected by electromagnetic interference. This interference often originates from aftermarket electronic devices connected to the vehicle.

The TSB provides a step-by-step diagnostic process. Technicians are instructed to first rule out loose objects in the vehicle's cabin (e.g., keys, pens) as the cause. They then check if the interference changes when pressure is applied to the speaker trim or the speaker itself. If the Audi e-tron speaker rattles persist, the speaker is removed and tested in isolation. Depending on whether the noise is still present, the technician will either inspect cabin fittings for loose parts and apply sound-dampening material or investigate aftermarket electronic devices for electromagnetic interference.

It's important to note that this TSB is for informational purposes and the outlined procedures are not covered under Audi's standard warranty.

What to Do

If your 2021 Audi is experiencing speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference, it's recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Inform them about the specific symptoms you are hearing, such as the Audi e-tron speaker rattles or humming noises. The technicians can use Technical Service Bulletin 2018187/11 as a guide to diagnose the issue accurately and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10171830