2021-2023 Audi Q8 Front End Noise TSB

Symptoms

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may notice a range of noises emanating from the front end or dash panel while the vehicle is in motion. These can include a buzzing, booming, humming, or whistling sound. The noises might also be heard specifically from the steering area or directly behind the dash panel. In some cases, these sounds may be mistakenly identified as tire rolling noises.

Technical Background

The root cause for the 2021 Audi Q8 front end noise, as detailed in TSB 2047920/6, is mechanical damage to the wheel bearing of the front axle. This damage can lead to the transmission of noise through the steering system into the vehicle's interior, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact source.

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose the source of the noise and confirm if it's related to the front wheel bearings, technicians should perform a series of checks during a test drive. These diagnostic questions help determine if the noise characteristics align with a failing wheel bearing:

• Does the frequency of the noise increase or the sound get higher as vehicle speed increases?
• Does the noise become louder when steering?
• Is the noise still present when the vehicle is slowing down?
• Is the noise amplified on the steering wheel or in the airbag well?
• Can vibrations be felt on the unpressed coil spring when the wheel is turning?
• If wheel bearings are swapped, does the noise move with the particular bearing?

Audi recommends using acoustic testers to precisely locate the noise source. It is important to note that a noise perceived on one side of the vehicle could originate from the wheel bearing on the opposite side. The TSB specifically advises against replacing front wheel bearings in pairs unless both are confirmed to be faulty. If, after these checks, the noise cannot be traced to a wheel bearing, further analysis of other components is necessary.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the 2021 Audi Q8 front end noise involves replacing the affected front wheel bearing(s). The specific labor operations vary depending on the Audi model and whether one or both front wheel bearings require replacement. For example, for A4 and A5 models, replacing one front wheel bearing involves labor operation 4067 1900 for removal and installation of the front hub with bearing, and 4057 5550 for replacing the front wheel bearing. If both front wheel bearings need replacement, operations 4067 2000 and 4057 5650 are used.

Similar specific labor operations (e.g., 4067 1950, 4067 2050, 4067 2000, 4057 5650, 4057 5500, 4057 5600) are detailed for A6, A7, Q7, and Q8 models, accounting for different model years and whether one or two bearings are replaced. A road test is required both before and after the service procedure (labor operations 0121 0002 and 0121 0004, each 10 TU).

Required Parts and Tools

The primary parts required for this repair are new wheel bearings (up to two, depending on diagnosis) and any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws as specified in the repair manual. Technicians should consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and parts bulletins. The Service Number for this TSB is 4057 and the Damage Code is 0020.

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this repair are covered under Audi's standard warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, the claim type is G10, and owner verification is required. If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, meaning the repair costs would typically be the owner's responsibility. All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

Important Warnings

• Do not replace front wheel bearings in pairs automatically. The TSB explicitly states that the front wheel bearings should not be replaced in pairs unless both are confirmed to be faulty after diagnosis.
• If your vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only, and any repairs would typically not be covered under warranty.

NHTSA ID: 10216011