2022-2026 Audi Speaker Rattles and Audio Interference TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2018187/18 to address customer complaints regarding sound system issues, specifically Audi e-tron speaker rattles, vibrations, or other audio interference. This bulletin, released on December 9, 2025, provides a comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedure for technicians to identify and resolve the source of these noises in affected vehicles.

Symptoms

Owners may notice various types of interference noise originating from the speakers or surrounding interior panels. These symptoms include:

• Crackling sounds
• Creaking noises
• Clattering
• Droning or similar sounds

These noises can emanate from the door, dash panel, or rear shelf, and are typically heard when listening to music, making a phone call, or playing other media.

Technical Background

The root cause of these sound system issues often lies in the vibration of various components. Parts of the speakers themselves, such as brackets, cables, or covers, can vibrate at certain frequencies. Additionally, interior fittings like door covers, the rear shelf, facings, or other trim pieces can also contribute to unwanted noises by vibrating.

For older vehicle types 8T, 8K from model years 2008–2012, and 8F models from 2010–2012, technicians are also advised to refer to TSB 2022773 for related information.

Repair Procedure Summary

The TSB outlines a detailed, step-by-step process for technicians to diagnose and repair Audi e-tron speaker rattles and other audio interference issues. The procedure emphasizes careful assessment to ensure the complaint is directly related to the speaker or surrounding components.

Initial Assessment and Loose Items

1. Reproduce the Complaint: The technician must first be able to consistently reproduce the customer's reported noise. If the customer uses individual sound settings, these should be reset to default for initial assessment.
2. Check for Loose Items: Remove any loose objects from door storage compartments, the glove box, dash panel, and hat-shelf areas, as these can often be the source of rattling.

Speaker Cover and Bolts Inspection

1. Speaker Cover Check: Reassess the complaint. If the noise disappears when pressure is applied to the speaker cover, remove and reinstall the cover correctly. If necessary, felt can be used to quiet the cover, or it may be replaced if damaged.
2. Speaker Bolt Tightness: Check and tighten all bolts on the affected speaker. If tightening resolves the issue, the repair is complete.

Speaker and Interior Trim Inspection

1. Foreign Bodies: Inspect the speaker itself for any foreign objects and remove them.
2. Speaker Removal Test: After checking bolts, remove the loudspeaker and perform a sound test while holding the magnet. Check for visible damage to the speaker membrane or foam bead.
3. Passenger Compartment Scan: Thoroughly check the passenger compartment for loose bolts, trim pieces, fluttering labels (as shown in Figure 1 of the TSB), or wires that could vibrate. Secure or apply backing/felt to any loose parts.

Advanced Diagnostics

1. Loudspeaker Reinstallation: If the noise could not be reproduced with the loudspeaker removed, reinstall it carefully, ensuring it's seated correctly and flush. Improper installation under tension can cause renewed complaints.
2. Connector and Cable Check: If noises persist, grip and squeeze the loudspeaker cable's connector to ensure secure engagement. If this helps, attach felt to the connector housing or unplug, rotate 360 degrees twice, and replug the connector to ensure secure pin seating.
3. Loudspeaker Swap: If the issue remains, swap the affected loudspeaker with an opposite one (e.g., left with right). If the complaint moves location with the speaker, the loudspeaker should be replaced. Before installing a new loudspeaker, technicians must re-verify the passenger compartment for loose items.
4. Amplifier Area: If the complaint does not move with the loudspeaker swap, the search should continue in the amplifier area, checking for loose cables, bent or widened pins, or damp areas.

Warranty Claim Service Numbers

When claiming labor for repairs related to rattling noises on trim parts under warranty, technicians are instructed to use specific service numbers appropriate for the location and cause of the complaint. Parts should not be replaced without good reason, as claims may be debited.

Examples of service numbers include:

• 5811 - Door handle
• 5817 - Door lock
• 5819 - Cable
• 5867 - Lock cylinder
• 7018 - Dash panel
• 7022 - Dash panel cover
• 7058 - Trim strip for dash panel
• 7014 - Loudspeaker cover
• 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

For loudspeaker replacement due to loose bolts, the damage type SA018 "loose" should be specified.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing Audi e-tron speaker rattles, vibrations, or other audio interference in your 2022-2026 Audi vehicle, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. Technicians have access to this detailed TSB and the necessary procedures to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11027321