2022-2025 Audi Models Front Seat Creaking Noise TSB

Owners of various 2022-2025 Audi models, including the Audi S3, may notice an irritating creaking or squeaking noise originating from the front seat frame. This issue, detailed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2076184/1, affects vehicles equipped with manual height adjustment for the front seats.

Symptoms

Vehicle owners typically report "creaking/squeaking noises from area of seat frame." These noises can often be reproduced during a workshop inspection, confirming the presence of the issue. The 2022 Audi S3 seat creaking noise is a common complaint among affected models.

Technical Background

The root cause of the 2022 Audi S3 seat creaking noise and similar issues in other models is attributed to production-related tolerances. Specifically, a shielding plate within the seat mechanism may come into contact with the toothed segment of the height adjuster. This friction generates the audible creaking or squeaking sounds.

Audi notes that production optimization efforts are underway from approximately week 48 of 2024 to address this tolerance issue at the manufacturing stage.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the creaking/squeaking noises, technicians will perform a specific service procedure outlined in TSB 2076184/1. This involves bending and greasing the affected area of the seat frame. The general steps are:

1. Trim Removal: The outer seat frame trim on the side of the affected seat must be removed according to the Workshop Manual instructions.
2. Shielding Plate Adjustment: The shielding plate needs to be carefully pressed away slightly to prevent it from contacting the toothed segment. This can be achieved using a flat-bladed screwdriver, as illustrated in the TSB's figures.
3. Seat Position Adjustment: The seat's height adjuster must be moved to its lowest possible position before applying lubricant.
4. Grease Application: Lithium grease (part number G 052150A2) is applied through a small hole in the shielding plate using a brush or injector. If available, the BECHEM noise insulation set, which contains BERULUB XP 746 grease, may also be used.
5. Grease Distribution: After applying the grease, the seat height adjuster should be moved multiple times from its upper stop to its lower stop and back. This process should be repeated twice to ensure the grease is evenly distributed.
6. Seat Rail Lubrication: The end stops on the seat rail should also be greased.

Required Parts and Tools

Technicians will need specific materials to perform this repair:

• Lithium grease: Audi part number G 052150A2 (quantity 0.1). Alternatively, BERULUB XP 746 from the BECHEM noise insulation set may be used.
• Fasteners: Any necessary fasteners, bolts, nuts, and screws for trim removal and reinstallation should be sourced as needed per the repair manual (See ETKA/ELSA).

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, this repair is covered. The TSB specifies the following codes for warranty claims:

• Service Number: 7215
• Damage Code: 0020
• Labor Operations:
  • Driver seat or passenger seat (excluding A3, Q4 models):
    • Trim remove+reinstall: 7216 19xx
    • Height adjuster modify: 7228 4999 (10 TU)
  • Driver seat and passenger seat (A3 models):
    • 2 Trims remove+reinstall: 7216 2099 (50 TU)
  • Driver seat and passenger seat (Q4 models):
    • 2 Trims remove+reinstall: 40 TU
    • 2 Height adjusters modify: 7228 5099 (20 TU)

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review by Audi Warranty. The claim comment should reference "As per TSB 2076184/1."

Important Warning for Owners

Owners should be aware that if their vehicle is outside of its warranty period, this Technical Service Bulletin is for informational purposes only. In such cases, the cost of diagnosis and repair would typically be the owner's responsibility. It is advisable to consult with an authorized Audi service center to determine warranty eligibility and potential costs.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11012499