2015-2025 Audi A3/S3 Steering Cracking Noise TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2047758/12 to address customer complaints of cracking or clattering noises that occur when steering or maneuvering certain vehicles. This TSB, dated July 27, 2024, supersedes previous bulletin 23-63 dated June 29, 2023, and provides an updated procedure for resolving this comfort-related issue.

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin has undergone several revisions to ensure accuracy and completeness:

• Revision 12 (July 27, 2024): Revised header to include added model years, updated condition information, and revised service instructions.
• Revision 11 (June 29, 2024): Revised header to include added model years.
• Revision 10 (June 6, 2023): Revised required parts and tools to include an added part number.

Symptoms

Owners may notice cracking or clattering noises, or spring jumps, when steering or maneuvering their vehicle. This Audi S3 cracking noise issue manifests under specific conditions:

• Wheels under load (vehicle on ground): The noise can be reproduced and occurs when the wheels are under load.
• Wheels not under load (vehicle suspension settled on a lifting platform): The noise can only be heard when the wheels are not under load.

Technical Background

This issue is considered a comfort-related complaint and does not affect the correct functioning of the vehicle's steering or suspension. The noises originate from two primary sources:

1. The bump stop for the shock absorber may cause noise if it contacts the front shock absorber cap or rubs on the piston rod during steering.
2. A