2020-2023 Audi Common Issues: Coolant, Noise, Airbag DTCs

Audi has released an internal analysis list dated May 10, 2023, for technicians to address various issues across its 2020-2023 model lineup. This document serves as a guide for diagnosing and documenting common customer complaints and technical issues. Technicians are instructed to contact the Audi Helpline before attempting any repairs and to complete associated worksheets found in ServiceNet, attaching them to the TAC ticket.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Information

This analysis list covers a range of symptoms and provides specific diagnostic steps and required documentation for each.

Coolant Warning Lamp Issues (2020-2021 Audi Q3)

Owners of 2020-2021 Audi Q3 vehicles may experience a "low coolant warning in the cluster" even when the coolant level in the reservoir appears full. For this specific issue, technicians must confirm that the case does not relate to TSB 2061918. Required documentation includes a photo showing the reservoir level and a complete photo of the reservoir, its connector, and a 4-inch section of the harness.

Abnormal Engine Sound Generator Noise (2021-2023 Audi models with 3.0L EA839 engine)

For 2021-2023 Audi models equipped with the 3.0L EA839 engine, customers might report abnormal or no sound from the engine sound generator. Diagnosis requires a video or sound recording of the abnormal noise or customer complaint from inside the vehicle before any repair. Technicians must also perform a sound actuator test and record a video or sound of it running. Additionally, a GFF log with executed tests and relevant DTCs must be uploaded to paperless, and a video or sound recording of noise from inside the vehicle after repair is needed.

3.0L Water Pump Leaks (2020-2023 Audi S4, S5, SQ5, A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8)

Certain 2020-2023 Audi models, including the S4, S5, SQ5, A6, A7, A8, Q7, and Q8 with 3.0L engines, may experience water pump leaks. Technicians are required to provide photos of the coolant leak as found upon inspection. They must also check the vacuum line from the water pump for coolant and inspect the N649 Coolant pump switching valve.

Oil Pan Leaks (2020-2023 Audi Q3)

2020-2023 Audi Q3 vehicles may exhibit oil leaks from the oil pan. Technicians are instructed to document any oil leak found coming from the oil pan.

Active Grille Air Shutter 'A' Stuck (2021-2022 Audi Q7/Q8)

In 2021-2022 Audi Q7 and Q8 models, an illuminated check engine lamp may indicate a P05A000 fault code, specifically "Active Grille Air Shutter 'A' Stuck," stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM). Technicians need to provide photos of the shutter motor for diagnostic purposes.

Belt Noise from Starter Generator (2023 Audi Q5)

2023 Audi Q5 owners might hear belt noise originating from the starter generator during starting or while the vehicle is running. Diagnostic steps include providing an audio/video recording of the noise. Technicians should also document the ambient conditions (temperature/humidity) at the time of the complaint and determine if the complaint occurs across a wider temperature range or specifically in cold conditions.

Boost Pressure Sensor Issues (2022 Audi Q3)

For 2022 Audi Q3 models with 2.0L engines, an illuminated check engine lamp may be accompanied by DTCs P010600, P023600, P023700, or P023800, indicating a boost pressure sensor issue. Required documentation includes a wiggle test harness, checks for pin fitment and pin drag, and circuit resistance (if needed). Photos of findings and a completed Q3 Boost pressure sensor worksheet are also necessary.

Detached USB Trim (2023 All Audi Models)

In 2023 Audi models, the USB trim panel may be found pushed in, loose, or detached from the center console. This issue applies to all models for the 2023 model year.

Noise from Front Door Trim Panel (2021-2022 Audi e-tron Quattro, e-tron SB)

Owners of 2021-2022 Audi e-tron Quattro and e-tron SB models may experience noise from the front door trim panel while driving. To address this Audi e-tron door panel noise, technicians are required to provide a video of the noise before any repair is performed, along with photos of the repair. This specific Audi e-tron door panel noise issue highlights the need for thorough documentation.

Airbag Light On with DTC B100A1B or B100B1B (2020-2023 Audi Q5)

If a 2020-2023 Audi Q5 has an illuminated airbag light accompanied by DTC B100A1B or B100B1B, specific documentation is required. This includes a close-up photo of the relevant thorax/side airbag connector (T3m or T3n) and photos of both sides of the thorax/side airbag wire harness label. Technicians must ensure the inscribed information on the connector is legible.

Noise from Front Door Speaker Grill (2021-2022 Audi A5)

For 2021-2022 Audi A5 models experiencing noise from the front door speaker grill, documentation requires photos of both sides of the thorax/side airbag wire harness label (Figures 2, 3). Note: The diagnostic detail provided in the source document appears to be related to airbag components rather than the speaker grill itself.

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NHTSA ID: 10236372