2021-2023 Audi Wheel Bearing Clicking Noise TSB

Symptoms of a Clicking Wheel Bearing

Owners of certain 2021-2023 Audi models may experience a distinct "clicking or clacking noise when maneuvering or parking." This specific symptom, often noticeable at low speeds or during turns, points to an issue with the vehicle's wheel bearings. This condition affects various Audi models, including the Audi Q8 wheel bearing noise issue, and can manifest in either the front left or front right wheel bearing.

Technical Background

According to Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2024318/12, the root cause of this clicking or clacking noise is microscopic movements occurring between the wheel bearing and its housing. These minute shifts can generate audible sounds, particularly when the vehicle is under specific load conditions like maneuvering or parking.

Important Warnings for Owners

Audi has issued a specific warning regarding warranty coverage for this issue. Owners should be aware that "Wheel bearings replaced for this concern will not be reimbursed under warranty." The prescribed repair involves applying a special paste rather than replacing the entire wheel bearing assembly. If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, and any repairs would be at the owner's expense.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the clicking or clacking noise, Audi's repair procedure, outlined in TSB 2024318/12, involves a targeted application of an assembly paste. The steps are as follows:

1. The affected wheel bearing and its housing must first be thoroughly cleaned. This involves removing any corrosion and dirt that may have accumulated in the area.
2. A thin coat of assembly paste, identified by part number G 052109A2, is then applied to the wheel bearing housing. Approximately 0.21 ounces (6 grams) of paste should be used. It is crucial to avoid applying this paste to the threads of the assembly. Figure 1 in the original bulletin illustrates the precise area for paste application.

This procedure aims to eliminate the microscopic movements that cause the noise without requiring a full wheel bearing replacement.

Required Parts and Tools

The primary material required for this repair is a specific assembly paste:

• Part Number: G 052109A2
• Description: Assembly paste
• Quantity: 0.1 units (referring to the amount needed from a tube)

Additionally, any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws should be referenced and procured according to the vehicle's repair manual (ETKA/ELSA).

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, the repair for the Audi Q8 wheel bearing noise and similar issues is covered under specific conditions:

• Claim Type: 110 (up to 48 Months/50,000 Miles) or G10 (for CPO Covered Vehicles, requiring owner verification).
• Service Number: 4057
• Damage Code: 0010
• Labor Operations:
  • Clean & grease 1 wheel bearing: 4057 2999 (10 TU)
  • Wheel hub with bearing remove + reinstall: 4067 19xx (See SRT with associated operations)
  • Clean and grease 2 wheel bearings: 4057 3099 (20 TU)
  • Wheel hubs with bearing remove + reinstall: 4067 20xx (See SRT with associated operations)
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (No Allowance), Road test prior to service procedure (0121 0002, 10 TU), Road test after service procedure (0121 0004, 10 TU).
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2024318/12.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Bulletin History

This Technical Service Bulletin, identified as 40 22 38 2024318/12, was issued on April 14, 2022. It supersedes a previous bulletin, Group 40 number 22-37, which was dated March 29, 2022. Earlier revisions include:

• Revision 12: Updated labor operations within the warranty section.
• Revision 11 (March 29, 2022): Revised parts and tools quantities.
• Revision 10 (December 9, 2021): Updated the header to include additional model years.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10210525