2021-2022 Audi Wheel Alignment TSB for Crooked Steering

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles may experience specific steering and alignment issues. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 44 21 80 2056386/4) provides guidance for technicians to diagnose and correct these concerns, which primarily relate to axle alignment.

This bulletin supersedes an earlier version, Group 44 number 20-73, dated February 12, 2020. The current revision, dated February 10, 2021, includes updated model years and service procedures.

Symptoms

Owners may notice one or both of the following conditions:

• "The vehicle pulls to one side."
• "The steering wheel is crooked."

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To properly diagnose these symptoms, a technician will first test drive the vehicle to confirm the concern. They will then consult the detailed repair manual within the ELSA system, specifically the section on Chassis >> Suspension, Wheels, Steering >> 44 Wheels, Tires, Wheel Alignment.

It is crucial that the wheel alignment equipment used for diagnosis and repair has the latest software updates installed to ensure accuracy.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process focuses on precise wheel and axle alignment. After confirming the symptoms, technicians will perform the following steps:

1. Test Drive: The vehicle is test driven to reproduce the reported concern.
2. ELSA Review: Technicians review the relevant sections in the ELSA repair manual for detailed instructions on wheel alignment.
3. Equipment Update: Ensure the wheel alignment equipment's software is current.
4. Alignment Protocol Upload: For new vehicles (at PDI or with under 1,000 miles), the alignment protocol must be uploaded to DOC-IT both before and after the repair. This upload must be the complete alignment protocol as a PDF file, not pictures of the alignment computer screen.
5. Steering Wheel Image (if applicable): If the primary concern is a "steering wheel crooked" condition, a picture of the steering wheel with the VAS 6458 steering wheel scale installed must be uploaded.

Required Tools or Parts

Specialized tools are necessary to perform the alignment and diagnostic procedures accurately:

• VAS 6458: This is a steering wheel scale used to measure and document the steering wheel's position.
• VAS 61XX: A Vehicle Diagnostic Tester is required for various diagnostic functions.

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware of specific tolerances regarding steering wheel position. Deviations at the steering wheel position by plus or minus 2 degrees are considered acceptable and are a result of permissible tolerances in track adjustment. These minor deviations do not necessarily indicate a fault.

Additionally, if your vehicle is outside its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only. The repair may not be covered free of charge in such cases.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2022 Audi is exhibiting symptoms such as pulling to one side or you have an Audi e-tron crooked steering, it is recommended to visit an authorized Audi dealer. They have the specialized tools and training to perform the necessary diagnostic and repair procedures outlined in TSB 44 21 80 2056386/4.

NHTSA ID: 10186992