2017-2025 Audi Droning Noises/Vibrations in Quattro Ultra

Symptoms of Audi Droning Noises Vibrations

Owners of 2017-2025 Audi vehicles equipped with PR Code GH4 (quattro with Ultra technology) may experience several distinct symptoms related to the drivetrain. These include audible noises from the drive train, specifically the gearbox, drive shaft, and/or rear final drive, when pulling away quickly from a standstill with the wheels turned. Additionally, vibrations, humming, droning, or rubbing sensations might be heard and/or felt in the vehicle interior or on the rear seats when the steering wheel is turned to full lock. The same sensations of vibrations, humming, droning, or rubbing can also occur when driving in a straight line, particularly in wet conditions. These are all indicators of the Audi droning noises vibrations issue.

Technical Background

According to Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2075681/1, the underlying cause for these Audi droning noises vibrations is often a lower proportion of all-wheel drive use. This can lead to differences in friction within the multiplate clutches of the quattro with Ultra technology system. These friction differences manifest as the noises and vibrations described by customers.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

• Do not replace parts prematurely: The TSB specifies that the repair procedure should only be carried out if all criteria, including model, VIN, engine/gearbox code, PR number, part number, and software version, apply exactly. Performing the repair without confirming these criteria will not resolve the problem and may lead to warranty claim rejections and charges for parts.
• Diagnostic Test Method: When using the ODIS tester, technicians are explicitly instructed not to search for the test plan via “Select self test.” The correct procedure involves expanding the test plan by entering the specific TPI number 2074883.
• Diagnostic Test Speed Limit: During the diagnostic procedure, if a speed of 11 km/h (~7 mph) is exceeded, the test will be automatically aborted. In such cases, the frictional vibration test will need to be restarted from the beginning.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure Summary

To address the Audi droning noises vibrations, technicians must first reproduce the customer complaint and confirm that other potential causes, such as incorrect tire pressure or improperly installed parts, have been ruled out. Audi provides QR codes linking to videos (e.g., https://audiexternal.kzoplatform.com/player/medium/2787316587877635587) to help ensure the noise or complaint is clearly assigned to this TSB. The repair procedure involves using the ODIS diagnostic tester.

1. Preparation: Ensure the vehicle is at operating temperature and parked in a safe area suitable for driving in circles with the steering at full lock.
2. ODIS Setup: Connect the ODIS tester and expand the test plan by entering TPI number 2074883. Add the suggested test program 0022 – Function test of clutch for frictional vibration to the test plan. This program is only available after expanding the test plan with the TPI number via the TSB tab.
3. Perform Test: Start the test -0022 – Function test of clutch for frictional vibration –. Select a target torque of 150 Nm and begin the test program.
4. Driving Procedure: With the engine running at idling speed and brakes applied, release the brakes at full steering lock and slowly increase speed. The goal is to drive in circles at a maximum speed of 10 km/h (6 mph) until the yellow warning lamp "Four-wheel drive overheating" lights up and the test mode ends automatically. This process can take several minutes, sometimes up to 15 minutes.
5. Fault Code: This test will result in the event memory entry C05DC00 4WD/AWD Clutch Temperature Too High being logged in the all-wheel drive electronics. This entry must be erased to complete the work.

Required Tools and Information

• ODIS Diagnostic Tester: Essential for accessing and performing the diagnostic test plan.
• TPI Number 2074883: Used to expand the test plan in ODIS and access the specific program for clutch frictional vibration.
• Test Program 0022 – Function test of clutch for frictional vibration: The specific diagnostic routine to address the issue.