2021-2022 Audi Wheel Alignment TSB for Pulling or Crooked Steering

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi vehicles, including the Audi e-tron wheel alignment, may notice symptoms related to a wheel alignment problem. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) provides guidance for technicians to diagnose and correct instances where the vehicle pulls to one side or the steering wheel appears crooked.

Symptoms

If you own a 2021-2022 Audi, be aware of the following indicators that may suggest an axle alignment issue:

• Your vehicle consistently "pulls to one side" while driving, requiring constant steering correction.
• The "steering wheel is crooked" or off-center when the vehicle is traveling straight.

These symptoms point to a potential problem with the vehicle's axle alignment, which this TSB is designed to address.

Technical Background

This bulletin specifically addresses issues related to axle alignment. It provides a structured approach for technicians to diagnose and resolve concerns that lead to a 2021-2022 Audi pulling to one side or having a crooked steering wheel. The TSB clarifies that no production solution is applicable, meaning the issue is resolved through a service procedure.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To properly diagnose the Audi e-tron wheel alignment issue, technicians are instructed to:

1. Test drive the vehicle: This initial step aims to reproduce the customer's reported concern, confirming the presence of the pulling or crooked steering wheel symptom.
2. Consult ELSA: Technicians must review the repair manual section for "Chassis >> Suspension, Wheels, Steering >> 44 Wheels, Tires, Wheel Alignment" for detailed procedures.
3. Check alignment equipment: Ensure that the software for the wheel alignment equipment used is current and up-to-date.

Repair Procedure Summary

The TSB outlines a multi-step process to correct the Audi e-tron wheel alignment and related issues:

1. Test drive: The technician will first test drive the vehicle to confirm the customer's concern regarding the vehicle pulling to one side or the steering wheel being crooked.
2. ELSA review: The technician will consult the ELSA repair manual for specific instructions related to chassis, suspension, wheels, steering, and wheel alignment.
3. Equipment update: Before performing any alignment, the technician must ensure that the wheel alignment equipment's software is the latest version.
4. Upload alignment protocols: For vehicles undergoing Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) or those with less than 1,000 miles, the technician must upload the alignment protocol to DOC-IT both before and after the repair. Only the complete alignment protocol as a PDF file should be uploaded, not pictures of the computer screen.
5. Steering wheel picture (if applicable): If the customer's concern is a "steering wheel crooked," the technician must upload a picture of the steering wheel with the VAS 6458 steering wheel scale installed. It's noted that steering wheel position deviations of +/- 2 degrees are considered within permissible tolerances for track adjustment and are acceptable.

Required Tools or Parts

Technicians will utilize specific tools to address the wheel alignment concern:

• VAS 6458: This is a specialized steering wheel scale used to accurately measure the steering wheel's position, particularly when diagnosing a crooked steering wheel.
• VAS 61XX: This refers to a Vehicle Diagnostic Tester, essential for various diagnostic procedures and potentially for uploading data or checking vehicle parameters.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2022 Audi is exhibiting symptoms such as pulling to one side or a crooked steering wheel, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Technicians are equipped with the necessary tools and information, including this TSB, to diagnose and correct the axle alignment issue.

Warranty claims for this service are typically covered if the vehicle is within the 12-month/12,000-mile limit or if it is a pre-delivery concern. For vehicles outside of these warranty conditions, the bulletin serves as informational guidance.

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone several revisions to ensure accuracy and updated information:

• Revision 5 (May 6, 2021): Revised warranty information, specifically updating the claim type.
• Revision 4 (February 10, 2021): Revised the header and added model years.
• Revision 3 (February 12, 2020): Revised the header, added model years, updated the technical background regarding application, and updated steps 4 and 5 of the service procedure.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10193041