2021 Audi Q8 Oil Leak from Cylinder Head TSB 2053278/6

Audi has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 15 21 37 2053278/6 to address oil leaks originating from the cylinder head in certain 2021 Audi models equipped with 2.9L and 3.0L TFSI engines. This bulletin, which supersedes TSB Group 15 number 21-36 dated January 29, 2021, provides detailed instructions for diagnosing and repairing the issue. Owners of an affected 2021 Audi Q8 or other models may notice symptoms related to this oil leak.

Symptoms of a 2021 Audi Q8 Oil Leak

Owners of affected vehicles may observe several indicators of an oil leak from the cylinder head. These include:

• "Oil loss in the area around the engine compartment, front end, and underbody."
• An "Oil level warning (too low)" displayed on the instrument cluster.
• "There is a smell coming from the engine compartment," often described as a burning oil smell.

Upon inspection, technicians may find leaks in specific areas:

• Around the cylinder head cover, valve cover, and cylinder head.
• Around the injector.
• Around the Audi valvelift system actuator.

Technical Background

The root cause of this oil leak is attributed to metal shavings produced during the manufacturing process. These shavings can interfere with the sealing groove between the cylinder head cover and the cylinder head, leading to oil seepage. Audi has implemented improved production processes to prevent this issue in newer vehicles.

Important Warning

Technicians are advised to follow a specific guideline during diagnosis and repair:

• "Do not replace the Audi valvelift system actuator(s) with an O-ring seal when the leak has been determined to be around the area of the injector(s)." This prevents unnecessary part replacement if the leak source is elsewhere.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure for a 2021 Audi Q8 oil leak involves a systematic approach to identify and fix the source of the leak. This process begins by removing the engine compartment cover and the heat shield to gain access. The upper noise insulation of the affected cylinder bank is then removed.

Next, the Audi valvelift system actuator is removed. If a significant amount of oil is found beneath it, the O-ring of the actuator is identified as the cause of the leak. Technicians are instructed to document this with photos, including a date stamp and VIN, for the repair order. If no substantial oil is present, the diagnosis continues.

The lower noise insulation is removed, and the affected cylinder is located. Oil typically gathers around the injector area, and the noise insulation may be soaked in oil. The cylinder head cover and its seal are then removed. Technicians must carefully inspect the gasket groove in the cylinder head cover for casting residues and remove them using a suitable tool, such as a small flat screwdriver, taking care not to damage the seal groove.

Finally, a new seal is installed, the camshaft cover is re-assembled, and the engine compartment is cleaned. Any noise insulation soaked in oil must be replaced. This comprehensive process ensures that the 2021 Audi Q8 oil leak is properly addressed.

Required Parts and Tools

Specific parts may be required for this repair, depending on the identified leak location. Technicians should consult ETKA for the latest information and part bulletins. Potentially required parts include:

• Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, and Screws (as needed per Repair Manual)
• 06M906048F (Solenoid valve, if applicable)
• 06M103650D (Gasket Cylinders 1-3, if applicable)
• 06M103649D (Gasket Cylinders 4-6, if applicable)
• G 12E050S0 (Coolant concentrate 1.5L, if applicable)

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this repair are covered under specific conditions. The claim type is 110 for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, and G10 for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles. If the vehicle is outside of warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only. Claims must be submitted in accordance with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual, referencing TSB #2053278/6.

Relevant service numbers and damage codes include:

• Service Number 1580: For leaks around the injector, with Damage Code 0050.
• Service Number 1551: For leaks around the Audi valvelift system actuator, with Damage Code 0010.

Various labor operations are specified for both 3.0L and 2.9L engines, covering tasks such as adjusting mechanism removal/reinstallation, camshaft adjuster removal/reinstallation, camshaft housing removal/reinstallation, and cleaning of engine components.

NHTSA ID: 10187326