2023-2026 Audi Speaker Rattle and Noise TSB 2018187/16

Audi Speaker Rattle and Noise Addressed by TSB 2018187/16

If you own a 2023-2026 Audi and are experiencing frustrating speaker rattles, grinding, humming, or other unusual noises, Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2018187/16 to help diagnose and resolve these audio interference issues. This TSB, which supersedes TSB 91 24 25 dated June 28, 2024, provides detailed steps for technicians to pinpoint the source of the noise and perform the necessary repairs. This bulletin is critical for addressing the "Audi e-tron speaker rattle" and similar complaints across various Audi models.

This TSB, identified as 91 24 32 2018187/16, outlines a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting speaker-related complaints. While the TSB header mentions DTCs B200FFA, B127C04, and C12AE02, the body of the document focuses exclusively on mechanical noises and vibrations from the audio system, not these specific diagnostic trouble codes.

Symptoms of Speaker Noise

Owners may notice a range of audio interferences originating from one or more speakers within their Audi vehicle. These symptoms are described as:

• "A cracking, grinding, rattling, humming, whining, or similar interference is coming from one or more speakers."

These noises can significantly detract from the driving experience and indicate a potential issue with the speaker components or surrounding interior fittings.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Audi has provided specific warnings for technicians and owners regarding the diagnosis and repair of these speaker noises:

• Sound Settings: "If the customer's individual sound settings are different from the default settings, the complaint should still be firstly assessed with the default sound settings. If the customer uses individual tone settings, please reset them to their default value." This suggests that customized audio settings should not be the primary focus during initial diagnosis.
• Noise Localization: "It is not always possible to localize the exact source of the noise directly. Vehicle components can transmit noises from other areas into the passenger compartment, which can make it difficult to localize the source of a noise correctly. Please always check around the speakers, as well as the speakers themselves. This applies to complaints regarding noises while on a phone call, in particular." This highlights the complexity of diagnosing such noises and the need for thorough inspection.
• Unnecessary Part Replacement: "Parts must not be replaced without a good reason as stated in this TSB. Such claims may be debited." This emphasizes that technicians should only replace parts that are definitively identified as the cause of the noise, preventing unnecessary costs.

Technical Background

The root cause of these speaker noises often stems from vibrations. Parts of the speakers themselves, such as brackets, cables, or covers, can vibrate. Additionally, interior fittings like door covers, the rear shelf, or facings can resonate at certain frequencies, leading to audible noises. For older vehicle types 8T and 8K from model years 2008–2012, technicians are also directed to refer to TSB 2022773 for additional guidance.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure Summary

To address the "Audi e-tron speaker rattle" and other speaker noise complaints, technicians follow a structured diagnostic and repair process outlined in TSB 2018187/16:

1. Preparation: Remove any objects from door storage compartments, empty the glove box, and check the hat-shelf for loose items.
2. Initial Assessment: Attempt to reproduce the customer complaint. If the noise is present, apply pressure to the speaker cover.
   • If the noise disappears, the speaker cover is the likely culprit. The cover should be reinstalled correctly, possibly quieted with felt, or replaced if damaged. Labor should be claimed using the speaker cover's service number (e.g., 7014-Loudspeaker cover).
3. Bolt Tightness Check: Ensure all bolts on the affected speaker are correctly tightened. If any bolts can be tightened, recheck for the complaint.
4. Foreign Object Inspection: Check the speaker for any foreign objects or debris and remove them if found.
5. Speaker Isolation Test: Dismount the speaker from the vehicle and perform a sound test while holding the speaker magnet.
   • If no unexpected noise is heard, the speaker must not be replaced.
   • If the noise persists, proceed to interior inspection.
6. Interior Inspection: Check the vehicle's interior for loose bolts, trim pieces, fluttering labels, or wires that could be vibrating. Secure any loose components with backing or felt, and replace damaged parts. It is crucial not to claim this labor using the speaker's service number.
7. Reinstallation Check: If the complaint was not reproduced with the speaker removed, reinstall it, ensuring it is seated centrally and flush. Recheck for the noise, as tension during initial installation might have caused the issue.
8. Speaker Swapping: Swap the suspected loudspeaker with the opposite loudspeaker (e.g., left with right).
   • If the complaint moves with the loudspeaker, the speaker must be replaced.
   • If the complaint does not move, further diagnosis is required, focusing on the amplifier area for loose cables, bent pins, or damp areas.

Warranty Information

When claiming warranty labor for eliminating rattling noises from trim parts, technicians must use the service number of the specific trim piece and an appropriate damage type for the location and cause of the complaint. The damage type SA018 "loose" is specified for claiming labor related to a loose loudspeaker.

Examples of relevant service numbers 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

What Owners Should Do

If your Audi is experiencing a speaker rattle or other audio interference, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Be prepared to describe the specific conditions under which the noise occurs. Technicians will utilize TSB 2018187/16 to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11005935, TSB 2018187/16