2023-2026 Audi Driveshaft Noises TSB 2074822/1

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi models may experience various noises emanating from the front of the vehicle. These include rattling, clacking, clicking, or hissing sounds. These Audi e-tron driveshaft noises are most noticeable when the vehicle is pulling away from a stop or when cornering.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 37 24 21 2074822/1 outlines two primary cases for these noises:

• Case 1: External Damage. The boot of the wheel input shaft or drive shaft may be damaged by external factors such as stones, branches, or animals. This damage can allow water to enter, leading to corrosion and damage to the constant velocity joint of the wheel input shaft.
• Case 2: Internal Issue. In some instances, no visible external damage is found, yet the wheel input shaft or drive shaft is confirmed to be the source of the noise.

To diagnose the issue, technicians are advised to perform a road test to localize the complaint. They should observe if the noise or vibration changes when turning the steering wheel at different speeds. If the noise persists across various speeds, swapping components from a similar vehicle (ensuring not to swap left-to-right) may help isolate the problem. Specialized noise detection equipment, such as the PICO tool VAS 611015 or a Combiscope, can also be used to precisely identify the noise source. For detailed analysis with the VAS 611015, technicians should also refer to TSB 2070568, titled "00 Professional noise analysis with the VAS 611 015 PICO-NVH tool."

Repair Procedure Summary

The TSB 37 24 21 2074822/1 primarily focuses on the diagnostic process to accurately identify the root cause of the noises. Once the specific component causing the Audi e-tron driveshaft noises is identified through the prescribed diagnostic steps, the necessary repair, which may involve component replacement, can be performed. The bulletin emphasizes thorough diagnosis to avoid unnecessary part replacements.

Required Tools or Parts

For accurate diagnosis, technicians may utilize specific noise detection equipment:

• PICO tool VAS 611015
• Combiscope

Important Warnings

• A certain amount of play (vertical/horizontal) on the right gearbox flange in vehicles with a longitudinal gearbox is design-related and does not constitute a technical issue. This play should not be mistaken for a fault.
• For Case 1, where external influences cause damage to the boot and constant velocity joint, the repair is generally not covered by warranty.
• Audi reserves the right to charge back for parts that have been replaced without a valid reason.

Owner Action

If your 2023-2026 Audi is exhibiting rattling, clacking, clicking, or hissing noises from the front, especially when pulling away or cornering, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi dealer. Reference Technical Service Bulletin 37 24 21 2074822/1 when discussing the issue with your service advisor to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution.

Source: NHTSA ID 11005884