2022-2026 Audi Speaker Rattles, Vibrations, or Audio Interference TSB

Owners of 2022-2026 Audi vehicles, including the Audi e-tron, may experience various sound system issues such as speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2018187/15, issued on June 28, 2024, supersedes previous bulletin Group 91 number 24-16 and outlines comprehensive steps for technicians to diagnose and resolve these concerns.

Symptoms

Customers typically report a range of disruptive noises coming from one or more speakers. These can include: "A cracking, grinding, rattling, humming, whining, or similar interference is coming from one or more speakers."

These noises often stem from parts of the speakers themselves, such as brackets, cables, or covers, or from interior fittings like door covers, the rear shelf, or other facings. These components can vibrate at certain frequencies, leading to the audible interference.

What Owners Should Know

Audi emphasizes several important points for both technicians and owners regarding this issue:

• "The tests should be performed with the default tone settings." If you have custom audio settings, technicians will reset them to default for accurate diagnosis.
• "It is not always possible to localize the exact source of the noise directly." Noises can transmit through vehicle components, making precise identification challenging. Technicians will thoroughly check areas around and within the speakers.
• This TSB specifically addresses "complaints regarding noises while on a phone call, in particular."
• "Parts must not be replaced without a good reason as stated in this TSB. Such claims may be debited." This means unnecessary part replacements will not be covered under warranty, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis.
• When addressing loose trim parts, technicians are advised: "Do not claim on the service number of the speaker!" Instead, the service number for the casual component should be used.

Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

To effectively diagnose the source of speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference, technicians follow a structured process. The first step is to ensure the customer complaint can be repeatedly reproduced. This involves:

1. Preparation: Removing all objects from storage compartments in doors, the glove box, and the hat-shelf area to eliminate potential external noise sources.
2. Reassessment: After preparation, technicians re-evaluate if the noise persists. They may apply pressure to speaker covers to see if the noise disappears. If so, the cover will be reinstalled correctly, possibly with felt, or replaced if damaged. Labor for this is claimed using the speaker cover's service number.
3. Speaker Bolt Check: All bolts on the affected speaker are checked and tightened. If tightening resolves the issue, labor is claimed using the loudspeaker service number with damage type SA018 "loose."
4. Foreign Object Inspection: The speaker is inspected for any foreign objects or debris (FOD), which are removed if found.
5. Dismounted Speaker Test: The speaker is dismounted from the vehicle, held by hand with the membrane facing upwards, and a sound test is performed. This helps identify any visible damage to the speaker membrane or foam bead.
6. Interior Component Check: If the noise persists, the vehicle's interior is thoroughly inspected for loose bolts, trim, fluttering labels, or wires that could be vibrating in resonance. Loose components are secured or replaced, with labor claimed using the service number of the casual component.
7. Speaker Reinstallation: If the complaint cannot be reproduced after the previous steps, the speaker is reinstalled, ensuring it is seated centrally and flush.
8. Loudspeaker Swap: To confirm the speaker as the source, the affected loudspeaker may be swapped with the opposite side. If the noise moves with the speaker, it indicates the speaker needs replacement. If the noise does not move, further diagnosis of the amplifier or main unit is required.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process focuses on methodical elimination of potential noise sources. It begins by ensuring the environment is free of loose items that could mimic speaker issues. Technicians then systematically check speaker covers, mounting bolts, and for any foreign debris. If the speaker itself is suspected, it is tested in isolation. If the Audi e-tron speaker rattles persist, the investigation expands to other interior components and, finally, to the audio system's main components like the amplifier or main unit.

Warranty Claiming Information

When claiming labor for eliminating rattling noises on trim parts under warranty, technicians must use the service number of the specific trim piece, not the speaker. The damage type must also be appropriate for the location and cause of the complaint. Examples of service numbers for various components include:

• 5811: Door handle
• 5817: Door lock
• 5819: Cable
• 5867: Lock cylinder
• 7014: Loudspeaker cover
• 7018: Dash panel
• 7022: Dash panel cover
• 7058: Trim strip for dash panel
• 9732: Wiring harness for door
• 9733: Wiring harness for central locking system
• 9740: Wiring harness for steering column
• 9774: Wiring harness for dash panel
• 7059: Door trim (front)
• 7073: Door trim (rear)
• 6815: Glove box
• 7030: Luggage compartment cover

Owner Action

If you are experiencing speaker rattles, vibrations, or audio interference in your 2022-2026 Audi, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Be prepared to describe the conditions under which the noise occurs most clearly. Ensure any custom audio settings are noted, as they may be reset during diagnosis. This TSB helps ensure your Audi e-tron speaker rattles are addressed effectively by trained technicians.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11002955