2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT Swivel Joint Grease Issue TSB

Owners of 2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT vehicles may observe what appears to be grease emerging from the swivel joint on the lower suspension link. This observation is addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2068702/2, which supersedes an earlier bulletin, Group 40 number 22-49, dated December 1, 2022.

This TSB provides important information for technicians and owners, clarifying that the presence of grease is typically a visual complaint and not indicative of a component failure or a leak that requires replacement parts. The Audi e-tron GT grease emerging condition is a normal characteristic under certain circumstances.

Symptoms

The primary symptom is a visual observation of grease emerging from the sleeve of the swivel joint on the lower suspension link. This can occur on either the left or right side of the vehicle. It's important to note that this is typically a visual complaint that the vehicle owner would not normally see without the vehicle being on a lifting platform for inspection.

Technical Background

Audi explains that when individual suspension components, such as the wheel bearing housing and suspension link, are assembled, grease may emerge from the sleeve when these components are bent or moved. The sleeve itself only forms a proper seal once the wheel bearing housing has been securely bolted on. Furthermore, under certain heat conditions, the grease can become liquid, making it appear as though the sleeve is leaking. This phenomenon explains the Audi e-tron GT grease emerging from the swivel joint.

Important Warnings

This TSB includes a critical instruction for technicians and owners:

• Do not replace any components. This condition does not warrant the replacement of the swivel joint or any other suspension parts. Replacing components will not resolve this visual characteristic and is an unnecessary repair.

Repair Procedure Summary

When addressing the Audi e-tron GT grease emerging issue, the repair procedure is straightforward and focuses on inspection and cleaning rather than replacement. The steps are as follows:

1. Inspect the underbody: With the vehicle on a lifting platform, visually inspect the lower suspension link for grease emerging from the swivel joint sleeve.
2. Clean the affected area: Carefully clean any visible grease from the affected area.
3. Check for damage: After cleaning, thoroughly check the sleeve for any actual damage. If no damage is present, no further action is required regarding the grease.
4. No reapplication of grease: It is not necessary to reapply grease to the sleeve after cleaning.
5. Release the vehicle: Once cleaned and inspected, the vehicle can be released.

Warranty Information

For eligible vehicles, warranty claims related to this TSB (2068702/2) can be submitted under specific conditions:

• Claim Type: 110 for vehicles up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. G10 for Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, subject to owner verification.
• Out of Warranty: If the vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only.
• Service Number: 4036
• Damage Code: 0010
• Labor Operations:
  • Clean and check 1 suspension link: Labor code 4017 2999 (20 Time Units)
  • Clean and check 2 suspension links: Labor code 4017 3099 (30 Time Units)
• Diagnostic Time: GFF (No allowance, 0 Time Units), Road test prior to service (No allowance, 0 Time Units), Road test after service (No allowance, 0 Time Units).
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2068702/2.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty.

Source: NHTSA ID 10238322