Steering Issues - 2013

[thedollardoctor]

@ S4owner. I appreciate your insight on this as an engineer and frankly I agree with you on most of your comments as well. In fact the tech that will be swapping my rack Friday also believed it to be related to a faulty steering angle sensor that "thinks" it is adjusting to torque being input by your hands on the wheel, so it adjusts by "boosting" the steering when in fact you aren't inputting any steering torque at all. He also said this is why it doesn't throw a fault code.

I am going to be filing a complaint with NHSTB (or whatever it's called) in a few moments online, and am going to print two copies of this entire thread and take one to my tech and one to my new service manager for their review.

As with kooltechie, if this issue is not resolved to my satisfaction I will also be taking up legal action and enforcing the lemon law (being in Ohio, we have one of, if not THE most aggressive lemon law in the country in protection of the consumer). I feel fortunate that I have a very good tech with 20+ years of experience working with me on this issue and will work with him to the point that he is no longer able to assist me and then will go after lemon law on this. Not sure what I would get instead though as I really love this car! If it would work right!!

[JFrA5]

I hope the fix works for you kooltechie. Keep us posted. I hope it works but am not optimistic at this point as it sounds like they are in the troubleshooting phase. I love the look of my car and how it drives when it behaves like it is supposed to, but I have never had anything like this on any of the other vehicles that I have owned over the last 15 years. This is my second A5, but the steering issues on this one make me want my 2011 back.

[thedollardoctor]

UPDATE: Here is the text of my official complaint with the NHTSA:

"In numerous incidents since purchasing my 2013 Audi S4 I have had two different steering related safety issues. The first was discovered while driving on the highway at 65mph when my car was very new with only 1000 miles on it. While holding the wheel in two hands at 12 O'Clock the steering wheel "slipped" about a hal inch to an inch and then grabbed again. This caused the car to drift slightly to the left, to which I made a slight correction back to the right with the wheel, upon doing so, the wheel "slipped" again and grabbed after a half inch to inch. This also caused the car to drift back to the right more than intended. This continued for my entire drive home (an hour and a half at highway speeds). Since then it has happened quite frequently and at different speeds and different road types. The second steering issue is more of a "notchy" feel and occurs while turning the wheel in longer sweeping turns, this happens at all speeds and causes me to have to constantly correct it further to make the turn safely. I have informed my dealership and await a new steering rack to be replaced, however, due to research I have personally done online, I am not confident this is the cause or solution to this issue. Please check THIS (http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/513862-Steering-Issues-2013) thread for additional info from other Audi owners who are experiencing this issue. There are over 500 posts about this in this thrad alone as this issue seems to be across all models for 2013. I feel VERY STRONGLY that this is a SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE and that Audi is not taking it seriously or being up front with owners as to the seriousness or prevelance of this issue and I feel they won't until the NHTSA gets involved. Please take this and other complaints from 2013 Audi owners seriously and take the necessary steps to correct this issue as soon as possible!"

[kooltechie]

the NHTSA complaint page is not accessible from my work and I'll have to submit mine when I get home tonight.
should've done it last night.... [>_>]

[treginginco]

I got the call today from my dealership to bring my allroad to get the steering issue fixed. The streering rack will likely be replaced, but Audi is also asking for a bunch of other things to be checked on it ---- with a list of tests to be conducted.

It appears Audi is trying to track down VIN ranges and model lines. The information is being collected as Audi puts together information for "future action."

Dropping my allroad off on Saturday. Will be cruising around in a loaner 'til they get 'er done!

[thedollardoctor]

I did a search for other 2013 steering related complaints about Audi and only found the other one posted by the other forum member on here recently. EVERYONE who is having this issue needs to post a complaint!

It takes only a matter of 5-10 min total and the more who do, the more likely it is to get DOT's attention. Please go back a page and find the link to that complaint website and take a few minutes to register your complaint.

[mrrun2fast]

I got the call today from my dealership to bring my allroad to get the steering issue fixed. The streering rack will likely be replaced, but Audi is also asking for a bunch of other things to be checked on it ---- with a list of tests to be conducted.

It appears Audi is trying to track down VIN ranges and model lines. The information is being collected as Audi puts together information for "future action."

Dropping my allroad off on Saturday. Will be cruising around in a loaner 'til they get 'er done!

Can you elaborate with the tests?

[Heresy]

I got the call today from my dealership to bring my allroad to get the steering issue fixed. The streering rack will likely be replaced, but Audi is also asking for a bunch of other things to be checked on it ---- with a list of tests to be conducted.

It appears Audi is trying to track down VIN ranges and model lines. The information is being collected as Audi puts together information for "future action."

Dropping my allroad off on Saturday. Will be cruising around in a loaner 'til they get 'er done!

That's encouraging.

[S4owner]

A few more things to keep in mind...

1) do people with this problem have the dynamic steering?
2) do people with this problem have the 19" tires? If so, are they summer, all season, or winter tires when experiencing the issue?

The reason for above questions - which may or may not be relevant - is that people with dynamic steering may find the problem emphasized because the steering initially appear "dead" when moving away from 12pm, then suddenly becomes much more "aggressive" in terms of the turning ability.This is because the dynamic steering is designed to increase steering ratio as you turn more and more, and it is also designed to turn much less at higher speed to increase the feeling of stability on highway. So whatever the cause of the issue, the problem could be accentuated from the dynamic steering "system" that is either overcorrecting or undercorrecting the steering angle/ratio.

Also, if you have 19" tires - especially if you are still running summer tires in the cooler weather - its low profile 35-series can dramatically increase the feel of "tugging" or "pulling" at higher speecds, because minor fluctuations (like concavity on the road or irregular surface) could easily produce that "tugging" effect when the 255-35-19s hit minor curvatures or slightly worn-out road surfaces. If you don't believe me, try driving over smaller potholes and you will feel the tug or pull suddenly, and this feeling can be misintetrepted especially if you have dynamic steering.

The problem may be less obivous if you have 18" tires or winter tires which are typically softer and less likely to get affected by the road conditions (ie they are more absorbent).

I am not sure if above could be a factor, but something to think about. Also, keep in mind that some tires (say Conti DW) will be more affected by road conditions and changing surfaces than others (such as Bridgestone or Dunlop) especially if they are somewhat worn out (even at like 10,000 miles). As I said preivously, a number of 2012 pre-facelifted Audi S4s and S5s I drove in the past had the same issue so it is NOT related to the hydraulic vs EPS - the only common thread is that if the sensors are defective, the amount of power assist will go haywire in EITHER system. This is why my suspicion is on the sensors and possibly the software glitch.

Final comment: before asking the dealer to replace the rack (which I am sure will not solve the problem unless they are also replacing the sensors), you may want to ask them to "reset" the learned behavior of the steering system (ie, reset the adaptability of the steering to zero again). The new 2013's EPS seems to have the ability to "learn" the driver's behavior and perhaps resetting this to the factory default may cure the issue - I am not sure.

Anyways I may be confusing people but these are additional thoughts. Hope we can get to the bottom of the issue for everyone's sake.

[Mrads]

A few more things to keep in mind...

1) do people with this problem have the dynamic steering?
2) do people with this problem have the 19" tires? If so, are they summer, all season, or winter tires when experiencing the issue?

The reason for above questions - which may or may not be relevant - is that people with dynamic steering may find the problem emphasized because the steering initially appear "dead" when moving away from 12pm, then suddenly becomes much more "aggressive" in terms of the turning ability.This is because the dynamic steering is designed to increase steering ratio as you turn more and more, and it is also designed to turn much less at higher speed to increase the feeling of stability on highway. So whatever the cause of the issue, the problem could be accentuated from the dynamic steering "system" that is either overcorrecting or undercorrecting the steering angle/ratio.

Also, if you have 19" tires - especially if you are still running summer tires in the cooler weather - its low profile 35-series can dramatically increase the feel of "tugging" or "pulling" at higher speecds, because minor fluctuations (like concavity on the road or irregular surface) could easily produce that "tugging" effect when the 255-35-19s hit minor curvatures or slightly worn-out road surfaces. If you don't believe me, try driving over smaller potholes and you will feel the tug or pull suddenly, and this feeling can be misintetrepted especially if you have dynamic steering.

The problem may be less obivous if you have 18" tires or winter tires which are typically softer and less likely to get affected by the road conditions (ie they are more absorbent).

I am not sure if above could be a factor, but something to think about. Also, keep in mind that some tires (say Conti DW) will be more affected by road conditions and changing surfaces than others (such as Bridgestone or Dunlop) especially if they are somewhat worn out (even at like 10,000 miles). As I said preivously, a number of 2012 pre-facelifted Audi S4s and S5s I drove in the past had the same issue so it is NOT related to the hydraulic vs EPS - the only common thread is that if the sensors are defective, the amount of power assist will go haywire in EITHER system. This is why my suspicion is on the sensors and possibly the software glitch.

Final comment: before asking the dealer to replace the rack (which I am sure will not solve the problem unless they are also replacing the sensors), you may want to ask them to "reset" the learned behavior of the steering system (ie, reset the adaptability of the steering to zero again). The new 2013's EPS seems to have the ability to "learn" the driver's behavior and perhaps resetting this to the factory default may cure the issue - I am not sure.

Anyways I may be confusing people but these are additional thoughts. Hope we can get to the bottom of the issue for everyone's sake.

You may be right in your logic that the above factors might create/simulate some of the symptoms being described by users - however; tires and ADS would not account for the "notchy", or as I have seen it described as a resistance point, at the 12 o'clock position. This sensation is unlike anything I have ever experienced before and is quite disconcerting the first few times you experience it. Further, it is a persistent but not always prevalent condition - it comes and goes from day-to-day. It definitely is not a road condition or tire related issue.

I agree with many of the posters that this seems to be a faulty positioning sensor or software problem. It doesn't feel mechanical and if it were mechanical, I would expect the problem to occur every time the car is driven.

BTW, my car is not ADS equipped. I am running 19" summers.


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[thirddecay]

You may be right in your logic that the above factors might create/simulate some of the symptoms being described by users - however; tires and ADS would not account for the "notchy", or as I have seen it described as a resistance point, at the 12 o'clock position. This sensation is unlike anything I have ever experienced before and is quite disconcerting the first few times you experience it. Further, it is a persistent but not always prevalent condition - it comes and goes from day-to-day. It definitely is not a road condition or tire related issue.

I agree with many of the posters that this seems to be a faulty positioning sensor or software problem. It doesn't feel mechanical and if it were mechanical, I would expect the problem to occur every time the car is driven.

BTW, my car is not ADS equipped. I am running 19" summers.


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same with me here, no ads. problem happened with both my summer and winter tires on. as far as road conditions....i drive the exact same 25km back and forth from work everyday with rarely even so much as a lane change and it pops up at random. works fine for a few days and then randomly starts acting up again. early on i even started checking my tires pressures and switching between normal and max load pressure settings to see if it would change anything. the notchy feeling is irritating though the resistance point middle of the wheel is definately a safety concern. you cant hold a straight line in a lane heh. it feels like my wheels are constantly caught in a street car rut when that one starts happening.

[offthewall]

A few more things to keep in mind...

1) do people with this problem have the dynamic steering?


I was about to post this question as well this morning. More out of curiosity than anything else.

Do ANY of the 30+ here with the issue have the Dynamic Steering option?

I have Dynamic Steering on my 2013 S4. I do not have any issues with steering. In fact, I love the steering in my car. It is the best steering feel I've ever had on a car (and I'm 58 so I've had a lot of cars :)). Better than my previous 2008 BMW 328xi. In dynamic mode, which it always is, the weighting is almost as good as the BMW but the sensitivity, road feel and accuracy far surpasses the BMW. A tad heavier and Audi would have nailed it.


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[achilleas101]

I was about to post this question as well this morning. More out of curiosity than anything else.

Do ANY of the 30+ here with the issue have the Dynamic Steering option?

I have Dynamic Steering on my 2013 S4. I do not have any issues with steering. In fact, I love the steering in my car. It is the best steering feel I've ever had on a car (and I'm 58 so I've had a lot of cars :)). Better than my previous 2008 BMW 328xi. In dynamic mode, which it always is, the weighting is almost as good as the BMW but the sensitivity, road feel and accuracy far surpasses the BMW. A tad heavier and Audi would have nailed it.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

boy, a few of us are on the same wavelength today- i thought about this last night as i was going to bed and was going to ask the same thing! [:)] but i was wondering more minutely- people seem to have 2 different sets of issues, 1) notchiness 2) the tramming.

already heard from at least 2 people who have the notchiness that they don't have ADS. But what about the people who have the tramming? i know at least a couple folks mentioned the different modes, so i know at least SOME have it. but of the 30 or so who have been listed as sufferers, what's the break down?

[offthewall]

boy, a few of us are on the same wavelength today- i thought about this last night as i was going to bed and was going to ask the same thing! [:)] but i was wondering more minutely- people seem to have 2 different sets of issues, 1) notchiness 2) the tramming.

already heard from at least 2 people who have the notchiness that they don't have ADS. But what about the people who have the tramming? i know at least a couple folks mentioned the different modes, so i know at least SOME have it. but of the 30 or so who have been listed as sufferers, what's the break down?

One could have the different modes (Comfort, Dynamic, Auto) without the Dynamic Steering option. Sport Diff alone would give you those controls on the car.

So you 30+, do you have the Dynamic Steering option on your cars?

It's worrisome that a problem I don't even have is consuming so much of my thought processes this week. [headbang] [wrench] [confused] [facepalm][drive][:D]

[achilleas101]

One could have the different modes (Comfort, Dynamic, Auto) without the Dynamic Steering option. Sport Diff alone would give you those controls on the car.

oh, ok...


So you 30+, do you have the Dynamic Steering option on your cars?

It's worrisome that a problem I don't even have is consuming so much of my thought processes this week. [headbang] [wrench] [confused] [facepalm][drive][:D]
haha, i don't even have my car yet! but i do like a good troubleshooting puzzle, and seeing as this is a slow work week, i don't mind having something to challenge and keep my mind busy.

[stactum]

Do ANY of the 30+ here with the issue have the Dynamic Steering option?


I don't have it, if you referring to the option that also controls the ratio of a wheel turn, not just the stiffness.
But now I wonder, technically with the way electromechanical steering is executed it should be software function, not hardware as on 2012 and before models. Does anyone know maybe how to code to enable Dynamic Steering (Ratio) with VCDS? I'd try that.

[offthewall]

I don't have it, if you referring to the option that also controls the ratio of a wheel turn, not just the stiffness.
But now I wonder, technically with the way electromechanical steering is executed it should be software function, not hardware as on 2012 and before models. Does anyone know maybe how to code to enable Dynamic Steering (Ratio) with VCDS? I'd try that.

I'm pretty sure the Dynamic Steering option is still a mechanical system. I've read nothing that would indicate that 2013 has replaced that system with software. It's quite a novel engineering accomplishment using harmonic drive gearing. http://www.popsci.com/bown/2008/product/audi-dynamic-steering.

[stactum]

I'm pretty sure the Dynamic Steering option is still a mechanical system. I've read nothing that would indicate that 2013 has replaced that system with software. It's quite a novel engineering accomplishment using harmonic drive gearing. http://www.popsci.com/bown/2008/product/audi-dynamic-steering.


Maybe it's still hardware, I am not sure. I know it was hardware on 2012 and before models. Here is a good video explanation on how it works:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge7huVZANC4

[Sjones630]

Also, if you have 19" tires - especially if you are still running summer tires in the cooler weather - its low profile 35-series can dramatically increase the feel of "tugging" or "pulling" at higher speecds, because minor fluctuations (like concavity on the road or irregular surface) could easily produce that "tugging" effect when the 255-35-19s hit minor curvatures or slightly worn-out road surfaces

The tugging that is occurring with this problem is entirely different than the "tire tugging" you refer to: it is much more pronounced and staccato. It is a series of very short duration, distinct tugs , with a clear one second interval between.

[offthewall]

Ok you guys officially suck. I just got in the car to drive home from work. Pulled out of the parking lot onto a 55mph road. Immediately I noticed (couldn't miss it) the "notchy" issue. It felt like there was a detent in the steering every inch. Bump, bump, bump as I turned the wheel left and right. With one of the detents directly at 12, you can not drive in a straight line.

I pulled over and shut the car off then back on. Immediately back to normal. I drove 30 min home and all was fine. Its unusually warm this evening. 61 after a week of temps in the teens. So there goes the cold weather theory. It has to be an electrical issue.

I'll be calling my dealer in the am.

[stactum]

Ok you guys officially suck. I just got in the car to drive home from work. Pulled out of the parking lot onto a 55mph road. Immediately I noticed (couldn't miss it) the "notchy" issue. It felt like there was a detent in the steering every inch. Bump, bump, bump as I turned the wheel left and right. With one of the detents directly at 12, you can not drive in a straight line.

I pulled over and shut the car off then back on. Immediately back to normal. I drove 30 min home and all was fine. Its unusually warm this evening. 61 after a week of temps in the teens. So there goes the cold weather theory. It has to be an electrical issue.

I'll be calling my dealer in the am.

It's funny how it goes. Didn't you just mention few posts ago that you "love the steering in my car" and no issues whatsoever :)

I bet out of all the people who reported "no issues" some may just don't realize what that is. I was in that same boat, I posted that don't feel any issues and when started to pay close attention to the described issue figured that I have it too.

[s4macs]

Since there has been lots of postings related to what vehicle settings, driving style, vehicle speed, road conditions, tire choices, etc. may contribute or cause what many of us are experiencing, my experience confirms to me that NONE of these have any relevance. Here is what I've seen:

BUILD DATE: (released for production on 21 September 2012 and factory inspected 8 October 2012)

CURRENT MILEAGE 4,000

SYMPTOM FIRST EXPERIENCED - on the way home from the dealership - car had only 14 miles at delivery. I noticed it about half-way home of the 50 mile trip - on the highway - about 55 MPH.

FROM THEN TO NOW - NO pattern as it comes and goes at all speeds and on all roads - meaning sometimes from the moment I leave my garage, sometimes never, sometimes just appearing for a few miles, sometimes half of my commute of about 30 miles. The last two mornings here in Northern Virginia have been unseasonably warm - 50s to 70s - and both commutes have been trouble free. The previous mornings have been stupid cold in the low teens and that was when I first experienced it from immediately leaving my garage. From this quick capture, I'd be inclined to say temperature affects it, but that does not track with my overall ownership of 4K miles or the fact that other posters experiencing problems live all over the country.

TIRES - factory installed 19" summer/performance tires. I installed the 18" Audi winter tire set on Saturday (that was not cheap!) and NO difference - symptoms are still there, nothing changed.

VEHICLE SETTING - makes no difference whether the car is driven in the AUTOMATIC, COMFORT or DYNAMIC setting.

I only offer my experiences help others whose dealer may be trying to sell them on the idea that it is temperature, tires, vehicle settings, road conditions, blah, blah, blah. Again, SAME roads and SAME driving style and sometime it is there, sometimes not - coming on as soon as I leave the driveway, sometimes halfway on my commute, sometimes never. The only constant is no constant.

My dealer has a part or parts (assume the electro-mechanical steering rack) on order, but as others have noted, it is back-ordered. I hope as others have mentioned that what I receive is indeed a re-engineering unit. I'm happy to try that route and see what happens.

P.S. I absolutely love this car...I've owned Fords to Ferraris (other current ride is a 2012 Porsche 997.2 Turbo) and the Audi is one of the finest (and in many ways THE finest) car I've owned. I never even considered an Audi in the past 50+ cars I've owned, but when looking for something of its fit, finish, seating, interior and YES, performance, I was sold after taking one for a test drive in less than 1/2 mile.

[BzzzBom]

There seems to be no definitive fix from AOA for the steering issue as of now and some of the affected owners have agreed that we need to escalate the issue to AOA and that we need some real answers from them.

Some of us have drafted a letter to AOA in hopes of getting a valid answer from them.
This is NOT a legal action against them, but a simple request to let us, the owners of B8.5 A/S models with the steering issue, know what’s causing the issue, what the fix is, and when it will be fixed.




















I think it’s crucial that more owners support and join this to show AOA how widespread and serious the issue is.

Here’s the draft of the letter - please let me know if you have any suggestions or comments:






















Dear Audi of America,

As the current owners of the 2013 A4, S4, A5 and S5 models, we want to alert you to a safety concern with the electromechanical

















steering on our cars.

There are two issues which occur without warning, usually when the car is cold or while driving on the freeway. The first issue occurs when traveling in a straight line and is a "slip" in the steering wheel when crossing the 12 o'clock position where it feels like it's holding fine and then suddenly "slips" and then grabs again when you turn the wheel off center. This happens with no change in road conditions, acceleration, or vehicle speed. When this occurs it is unsettling and has caused drivers to inadvertently drift into the adjacent lane. The















second issue is a "notchy" feel which happens at any speed, any steering mode and any wheel position. Like the first steering issue, this also feels unsafe as the driver often over or under corrects steering input.

A recent thread, regarding this issue, was started November 20, 2012 on the Audi forum, Audizine. As of today over 23,000 Audi enthusiasts have viewed this thread and approximately two-thirds of owners have reported having the same or similar steering issues. The link to the thread is: www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/513862-Steering-Issues (please refer to page 9 of the thread to


view the number of affected owners vs. those that are not). Several dealerships have stated that Audi of America is aware of this issue but as of now we haven’t heard what is causing the issue, what the fix is and when it will be fixed. Due to the large number of owners affected we are concerned that this poses a significant safety issue and interferes with the driving satisfaction of this expensive, luxury sport car. We are looking forward to your reply.

Thank you.


Letter mailed to Scott Keogh, President AOA this afternoon.

[kooltechie]

Ok you guys officially suck. I just got in the car to drive home from work. Pulled out of the parking lot onto a 55mph road. Immediately I noticed (couldn't miss it) the "notchy" issue. It felt like there was a detent in the steering every inch. Bump, bump, bump as I turned the wheel left and right. With one of the detents directly at 12, you can not drive in a straight line.

I pulled over and shut the car off then back on. Immediately back to normal. I drove 30 min home and all was fine. Its unusually warm this evening. 61 after a week of temps in the teens. So there goes the cold weather theory. It has to be an electrical issue.

I'll be calling my dealer in the am.

oh no....this is not good.
I've been worried if "all" B8.5 models are affected with the steering issues in different severity levels and maybe that's where it's headed.....most of the owners "maybe" do not pay as much attention or the issue hasn't been severe enough to notice easily?

could it be a software-related issue obviously affecting all our B8.5 cars?
could it be a sensor-related issue that a certain batch from a supplier messed up a limited number of cars?
or maybe it's both?

frustrating, isn't it?

[kooltechie]

Since there has been lots of postings related to what vehicle settings, driving style, vehicle speed, road conditions, tire choices, etc. may contribute or cause what many of us are experiencing, my experience confirms to me that NONE of these have any relevance. Here is what I've seen:

BUILD DATE: (released for production on 21 September 2012 and factory inspected 8 October 2012)

CURRENT MILEAGE 4,000

SYMPTOM FIRST EXPERIENCED - on the way home from the dealership - car had only 14 miles at delivery. I noticed it about half-way home of the 50 mile trip - on the highway - about 55 MPH.

FROM THEN TO NOW - NO pattern as it comes and goes at all speeds and on all roads - meaning sometimes from the moment I leave my garage, sometimes never, sometimes just appearing for a few miles, sometimes half of my commute of about 30 miles. The last two mornings here in Northern Virginia have been unseasonably warm - 50s to 70s - and both commutes have been trouble free. The previous mornings have been stupid cold in the low teens and that was when I first experienced it from immediately leaving my garage. From this quick capture, I'd be inclined to say temperature affects it, but that does not track with my overall ownership of 4K miles or the fact that other posters experiencing problems live all over the country.

TIRES - factory installed 19" summer/performance tires. I installed the 18" Audi winter tire set on Saturday (that was not cheap!) and NO difference - symptoms are still there, nothing changed.

VEHICLE SETTING - makes no difference whether the car is driven in the AUTOMATIC, COMFORT or DYNAMIC setting.

I only offer my experiences help others whose dealer may be trying to sell them on the idea that it is temperature, tires, vehicle settings, road conditions, blah, blah, blah. Again, SAME roads and SAME driving style and sometime it is there, sometimes not - coming on as soon as I leave the driveway, sometimes halfway on my commute, sometimes never. The only constant is no constant.


+1

fyi, no dynamic steering on mine

[kooltechie]

Letter mailed to Scott Keogh, President AOA this afternoon.

much appreciated [up]

[kooltechie]

offthewall, s4macs added to the list of owners w/ the steering issue.

gboogie88, S4owner added to the list of owners w/o the issue.

http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/513862-Steering-Issues-2013?p=8381472&viewfull=1#post8381472

thx.

[stactum]

oh no....this is not good.
I've been worried if "all" B8.5 models are affected with the steering issues in different severity levels and maybe that's where it's headed.....most of the owners "maybe" do not pay as much attention or the issue hasn't been severe enough to notice easily?

could it be a software-related issue obviously affecting all our B8.5 cars?
could it be a sensor-related issue that a certain batch from a supplier messed up a limited number of cars?
or maybe it's both?

frustrating, isn't it?


I think that's it. On the way home today my notchiness was so severe (like driving with MMI control :) ) that I called dealer again and said that I can stop by to show it to him. When I used word "notchy" to explain the issue he got it right away and said that they had to replace one steering rack on the S4 already which had that notchy feel to it. I'll be dropping my car off on Monday.

Anyone here with S4 who had their steering rack replaced can confirm that it fixed the problem?

[spl1011]

Stactum - I have an allroad with a replaced rack. It still does it. I've been putting off putting a second one in.

[JFrA5]

I am pretty confident based on a lot of your posts that the steering rack replacement is not the silver bullet fix. It seems like all of the owners that have had the replacement rack the issue has returned shortly thereafter. I also find it interesting that some dealers are very aware of the issue and others like mine act like this is a new, unheard of issue and look at me like I'm on drugs when I'm in there explaining the issue. Why do I have to do all this research, isn't that what my dealer is for???

[thedollardoctor]

I think that's it. On the way home today my notchiness was so severe (like driving with MMI control :) ) that I called dealer again and said that I can stop by to show it to him. When I used word "notchy" to explain the issue he got it right away and said that they had to replace one steering rack on the S4 already which had that notchy feel to it. I'll be dropping my car off on Monday.

Anyone here with S4 who had their steering rack replaced can confirm that it fixed the problem?

Bclippard has confirmed that this fixed his issue. Mine goes in Friday for a replacement rack, will report when it's done, I'm not holding my breath.

[thedollardoctor]

Ok you guys officially suck. I just got in the car to drive home from work. Pulled out of the parking lot onto a 55mph road. Immediately I noticed (couldn't miss it) the "notchy" issue. It felt like there was a detent in the steering every inch. Bump, bump, bump as I turned the wheel left and right. With one of the detents directly at 12, you can not drive in a straight line.

I pulled over and shut the car off then back on. Immediately back to normal. I drove 30 min home and all was fine. Its unusually warm this evening. 61 after a week of temps in the teens. So there goes the cold weather theory. It has to be an electrical issue.

I'll be calling my dealer in the am.

Welcome to the club. Ugh

[holmes4]

Some data from me. First of all, I am 57, not "under 30". I noticed the issue with both the stock 18" wheels and also the 16" snows - in fact, the behavior did not change at all when I swapped tires. I do not have dynamic steering and the issue started appearing for me with about 4000 miles on the car.

Replacing the steering rack DID make the problem go away, telling me that it is not software. Whether it will return in time, I don't know. I did file an NHTSA report.

[offthewall]

It's funny how it goes. Didn't you just mention few posts ago that you "love the steering in my car" and no issues whatsoever :)

I bet out of all the people who reported "no issues" some may just don't realize what that is. I was in that same boat, I posted that don't feel any issues and when started to pay close attention to the described issue figured that I have it too.

That would have been me, blabbing on how great the steering in my car was. :)

What I experienced yesterday would never go unnoticed. It was severe and un-drivable. I was convinced a lot of people on this thread were either just unhappy with the way their cars steered or were talking themselves into something. I've been there myself. But this was just plain broken. Then as fast as it came, upon restarting the car, it was gone.

I'm still suspect that everyone here is not suffering from the same single issue unless there are variations in the severity of what I had. This was not a "hmm, is the steering a little off?"

I had to leave a voicemail at my dealer and still haven't heard back.

[thedollardoctor]

Since there has been lots of postings related to what vehicle settings, driving style, vehicle speed, road conditions, tire choices, etc. may contribute or cause what many of us are experiencing, my experience confirms to me that NONE of these have any relevance. Here is what I've seen:

BUILD DATE: (released for production on 21 September 2012 and factory inspected 8 October 2012)

CURRENT MILEAGE 4,000

SYMPTOM FIRST EXPERIENCED - on the way home from the dealership - car had only 14 miles at delivery. I noticed it about half-way home of the 50 mile trip - on the highway - about 55 MPH.

FROM THEN TO NOW - NO pattern as it comes and goes at all speeds and on all roads - meaning sometimes from the moment I leave my garage, sometimes never, sometimes just appearing for a few miles, sometimes half of my commute of about 30 miles. The last two mornings here in Northern Virginia have been unseasonably warm - 50s to 70s - and both commutes have been trouble free. The previous mornings have been stupid cold in the low teens and that was when I first experienced it from immediately leaving my garage. From this quick capture, I'd be inclined to say temperature affects it, but that does not track with my overall ownership of 4K miles or the fact that other posters experiencing problems live all over the country.

TIRES - factory installed 19" summer/performance tires. I installed the 18" Audi winter tire set on Saturday (that was not cheap!) and NO difference - symptoms are still there, nothing changed.

VEHICLE SETTING - makes no difference whether the car is driven in the AUTOMATIC, COMFORT or DYNAMIC setting.

I only offer my experiences help others whose dealer may be trying to sell them on the idea that it is temperature, tires, vehicle settings, road conditions, blah, blah, blah. Again, SAME roads and SAME driving style and sometime it is there, sometimes not - coming on as soon as I leave the driveway, sometimes halfway on my commute, sometimes never. The only constant is no constant.

My dealer has a part or parts (assume the electro-mechanical steering rack) on order, but as others have noted, it is back-ordered. I hope as others have mentioned that what I receive is indeed a re-engineering unit. I'm happy to try that route and see what happens.

P.S. I absolutely love this car...I've owned Fords to Ferraris (other current ride is a 2012 Porsche 997.2 Turbo) and the Audi is one of the finest (and in many ways THE finest) car I've owned. I never even considered an Audi in the past 50+ cars I've owned, but when looking for something of its fit, finish, seating, interior and YES, performance, I was sold after taking one for a test drive in less than 1/2 mile.

THIS!!! Times 1,000!

This is seriously the best overall write up in this thread in my opinion. And he's exactly right! "The only constant is there's no constant"! Amen

My notchy issue was possibly the worst it's ever been this morning, while taking a long gradual left hand turn the wheel notched and notched and notched all the way through the turn causing me to have to turn it further and further to make the turn safely, this was at 30mph first thing this morning. I seriously almost drove straight to the dealer to have my tech drive it, but couldn't because of schedule.

My car is going in for steering rack replacement tomorrow, I'm taking it over there this afternoon to have a long talk with the new service manager and my tech who will be doing the work, also printing off every page of this thread and highlighting the posts I want them both to read and also informing them that I have already registered a complaint with the NHSTA and if this issue is not resolved I will peruse lemon law once it's appropriate.

I'll report back with any relevant updates as I have them. Wish me luck

[Bclippard]

I'll report back with any relevant updates as I have them. Wish me luck

Good Luck I have almost 1000 miles on my cars since the rack was changed and I have not experienced the problem since. I hope the same for you.

[thedollardoctor]

Glad to hear it! I was nervous as I opened this post...... I hope this fix continues to hold for you! As we both know, until you have something like 5,000 miles on it with no issues, we'll both be holding our breaths .....

[Franky_d]

Well, good luck and looking forward to here about the success soonest! ;)

[JFrA5]

Any suggestions on how to get my dealer to take some action?? Seems like they don't really want to acknowledge or troubleshoot the issue!!!

[kooltechie]

What I experienced yesterday would never go unnoticed. It was severe and un-drivable. I was convinced a lot of people on this thread were either just unhappy with the way their cars steered or were talking themselves into something. I've been there myself. But this was just plain broken. Then as fast as it came, upon restarting the car, it was gone.

I'm still suspect that everyone here is not suffering from the same single issue unless there are variations in the severity of what I had. This was not a "hmm, is the steering a little off?"


now you know how it's been for us, the owners of the affected B8.5 models [:(]

hopefully a permanent fix will be given by Audi, if it has not been done already by replacing the steering rack.

[kooltechie]

THIS!!! Times 1,000!

This is seriously the best overall write up in this thread in my opinion. And he's exactly right! "The only constant is there's no constant"! Amen

My notchy issue was possibly the worst it's ever been this morning, while taking a long gradual left hand turn the wheel notched and notched and notched all the way through the turn causing me to have to turn it further and further to make the turn safely, this was at 30mph first thing this morning. I seriously almost drove straight to the dealer to have my tech drive it, but couldn't because of schedule.

My car is going in for steering rack replacement tomorrow, I'm taking it over there this afternoon to have a long talk with the new service manager and my tech who will be doing the work, also printing off every page of this thread and highlighting the posts I want them both to read and also informing them that I have already registered a complaint with the NHSTA and if this issue is not resolved I will peruse lemon law once it's appropriate.

I'll report back with any relevant updates as I have them. Wish me luck

last time I experienced a severe notchy steering was almost exactly 2 weeks ago, 1/15 - it was quite dangerous on the freeway headed to work....couldn't keep the car driving straight and thought I was gonna get into an accident if I didn't pay attention and effort 10x more than usual, but couldn't go to the dealer at the time because of my work schedule.
since then the steering issue has been rather trivial - the symptoms were not as severe and occurred less often.

I'll head down to my dealer in less than 30 min to drop off my car for the steering rack replacement....crossing my fingers this will fix the issue [:|]

[thedollardoctor]

Any suggestions on how to get my dealer to take some action?? Seems like they don't really want to acknowledge or troubleshoot the issue!!!

Call Audi of America directly and report the issue to them and report that your dealership is not taking you seriously and refusing to work on it and tell them this is a SAFETY issue and if something is not done soon you will have to take legal action. Also tell them you have already reported this issue to the NHTSA. That will likely get their attention enough.

[offthewall]

That would have been me, blabbing on how great the steering in my car was. :)

What I experienced yesterday would never go unnoticed. It was severe and un-drivable. I was convinced a lot of people on this thread were either just unhappy with the way their cars steered or were talking themselves into something. I've been there myself. But this was just plain broken. Then as fast as it came, upon restarting the car, it was gone.

I'm still suspect that everyone here is not suffering from the same single issue unless there are variations in the severity of what I had. This was not a "hmm, is the steering a little off?"

I had to leave a voicemail at my dealer and still haven't heard back.

Will be bringing mine into the dealer tomorrow morning. Will let you all know what they say.

[kooltechie]

back to work from the dealer after dropping my S5 off.
The work is to be done by the shop foreman and I’m scheduled get my car back on Saturday.
Hopefully the steering issue will be fixed with the replacement parts from Germany….crossing my fingers.

Btw, got an A6 as a loaner, a 2.0T Premium + model with the MMI Navi and the optional 20” wheels (a big thanks to my SA Jorge @ Pacific Audi).
The ride quality is underwhelming, but understandable cuz it’s a FWD and lacking a sport suspension.
However, the steering was consistent and not notchy, but felt a bit too loose and required small adjustments to drive straight.
The steering in Dynamic mode was quite light, too.

Will keep you posted with any updates on the repair.
Thanks.

[JFrA5]

I just reported my issue to AOA since my dealer sent me packing on Monday telling me my vehicle was functioning fine. I informed my customer advocate that I have already filed a complaint with the NHTSA and that if this issue is not rectified in a timely fashion that I would be pursuing action against Audi utilizing my state lemon law or requesting a courtesy buyback of my A5. I am done dealing with these issues and unless Audi acknowledges and fixes the problem in short order....my A5 is out of here. Beautiful car and fun to drive but I am not dealing with lackluster quality issues or gremlins affecting the drivabilty of the car any more. I don't really expect a lot of action our of my complaint with AOA other than making me take my car back to the dealership where it will sit until they can 'reproduce' the problem. I have owned many luxury cars and I have never had to expel so much time and energy researching an issue, complaining, posting on forums etc. than I have with this car. I am sure many of you feel the same way I do but I literally am at the end of my rope on this one.

[kooltechie]

I just reported my issue to AOA since my dealer sent me packing on Monday telling me my vehicle was functioning fine. I informed my customer advocate that I have already filed a complaint with the NHTSA and that if this issue is not rectified in a timely fashion that I would be pursuing action against Audi utilizing my state lemon law or requesting a courtesy buyback of my A5. I am done dealing with these issues and unless Audi acknowledges and fixes the problem in short order....my A5 is out of here. Beautiful car and fun to drive but I am not dealing with lackluster quality issues or gremlins affecting the drivabilty of the car any more. I don't really expect a lot of action our of my complaint with AOA other than making me take my car back to the dealership where it will sit until they can 'reproduce' the problem. I have owned many luxury cars and I have never had to expel so much time and energy researching an issue, complaining, posting on forums etc. than I have with this car. I am sure many of you feel the same way I do but I literally am at the end of my rope on this one.

quite disappointing to say the least.
hopefully all works out soon.

[IceAero]

I just reported my issue to AOA since my dealer sent me packing on Monday telling me my vehicle was functioning fine. I informed my customer advocate that I have already filed a complaint with the NHTSA and that if this issue is not rectified in a timely fashion that I would be pursuing action against Audi utilizing my state lemon law or requesting a courtesy buyback of my A5. I am done dealing with these issues and unless Audi acknowledges and fixes the problem in short order....my A5 is out of here. Beautiful car and fun to drive but I am not dealing with lackluster quality issues or gremlins affecting the drivabilty of the car any more. I don't really expect a lot of action our of my complaint with AOA other than making me take my car back to the dealership where it will sit until they can 'reproduce' the problem. I have owned many luxury cars and I have never had to expel so much time and energy researching an issue, complaining, posting on forums etc. than I have with this car. I am sure many of you feel the same way I do but I literally am at the end of my rope on this one.

Wow, I mean, this steering issue isn't great, but I really don't think many (any) people here want to return their car for it...and the lemon law isn't going to help you, but you probably knew that already.

[kwong26]

So I took my car for servicing today and mentioned the issue with the notchy/slippy steering and they noted that another person dropped their car off a few days ago and has left it with them to investigate. They had a representative from Audi of Canada here, but not sure if the two were related. Service techs mentioned that they will continue to look into that car but noted that my car was experiencing the same issue, but don't know the cause as of yet (BS answer? maybe, but will give them benefit of the doubt). Guess it's good I don't have to leave my car there to be guinea pigged... :) Thanks to whoever left their car at Audi Uptown. :)

I'll keep following up with them on their findings of the next week or so. I'm not having consistent issues or dangerous problems, it's just more of an annoyance than anything else when it does slip.

[JFrA5]

IceAero I would beg to differ with you. I bet that owners who experience this issue would be more happy to return their cars if given the opportunity than you think. I know having experienced this issue multiple times per week for the past 4 months that I would gladly let Audi drive this car away from my possession forever and never think twice about it. I have owned many performance luxury cars across all make and model lines and I will own more in the future, but if Audi cannot fix the issue, there are plenty of other more than acceptable car alternatives out there that I would rather drive. Driving a car is about the experience, and if that experience is tainted by a fault in one of the most critical functions of the car, the steering, then why would any person feel the need to keep that car. Not trying to start an argument, but if you don't understand the severity of the issue, as every owner on here has been impacted differently, then why would you assume that people would not be willing to kick their cars to the curb. I am not that loyal of an owner. You sell me something faulty, and you don't acknowledge the problem or fix it, you won't see me again.

[offthewall]

Will be bringing mine into the dealer tomorrow morning. Will let you all know what they say.

My 2013 S4 is at the dealer now. I just got a call from my service rep. They have been looking at the car for about 6 hours now. No fault codes, can't reproduce the issue as we all know already. The service rep is committed to pursuing the issue for me. They are keeping the car for the weekend and getting Audi technical involved.

In the meantime I'm driving a fully loaded 2013 A4 Quattro loaner. It's a very odd sensation since it looks like I'm driving my car but someone took all the guts out of it. LOL. The same color as my S4 too. I stomp on it and nothing, the brakes are also far less effective than the S4. You really can't nail it around corners like the S4 so you don't really notice that the car handles that much differently most of the time. Try and take a corner really fast and boy you notice then! I also miss my Dynamic Steering. It takes a lot more input to take a sharp turn or maneuver out of a tight parking spot. I haven't taken it on the highway, so I can't comment on the steering there. But it didn't have any notchy issues (although neither does mine except for the single severe instance Wednesday). I though my stock S4 looked like SUV status, this A4 lookes 2 inches higher even though I think it's only supposed to be 1". The 245/18's instead of the 255/19's contribute to that.

Anyway, enough about the A4. I will post here whatever my dealer and Audi Technical have to say about my S4 steering issues. Missing my S4 already :(

[Gotchaa]

IceAero I would beg to differ with you. I bet that owners who experience this issue would be more happy to return their cars if given the opportunity than you think. I know having experienced this issue multiple times per week for the past 4 months that I would gladly let Audi drive this car away from my possession forever and never think twice about it. I have owned many performance luxury cars across all make and model lines and I will own more in the future, but if Audi cannot fix the issue, there are plenty of other more than acceptable car alternatives out there that I would rather drive. Driving a car is about the experience, and if that experience is tainted by a fault in one of the most critical functions of the car, the steering, then why would any person feel the need to keep that car. Not trying to start an argument, but if you don't understand the severity of the issue, as every owner on here has been impacted differently, then why would you assume that people would not be willing to kick their cars to the curb. I am not that loyal of an owner. You sell me something faulty, and you don't acknowledge the problem or fix it, you won't see me again.

Not every owner has been affected by this issue yet. I am sure you would return your vehicle as it sounds pretty bad on your car, but the reports are all over the place on scenarios in how and when it appears, it's going to take a while to get this sorted out.

We all just need to wait and see how this steering rack replacement works, and what Audi finds out in this exercise. If anyone honestly feels unsafe in their vehicle, go speak to the GM of your dealership where you purchased it and leave the car there until they fix it, refuse to drive it for your SAFETY.

[gboogie88]

I was rippin around today to see if I really have this steering issue.

I drove around a bend around 90kms (55 miles) and the steering held the line and I didn't have to adjust the steering wheel to compensate *knock on wood*

However the suspension does feel a bit "floaty" and . My guess that the AK and sway bars will fix that....

I hope you guys get your steering issue fixed. Good Luck!

[Doc Brown]

Wow, I mean, this steering issue isn't great, but I really don't think many (any) people here want to return their car for it...and the lemon law isn't going to help you, but you probably knew that already.

I disagree for two reasons.

One, this is a safety issue. This is not just "my car feels funny".

Two, invoking lemon law provides leverage. If they know you are knowledgeable of the law, have researched it, and are willing to pursue it lights a fire under the corporate ass to get this fixed in a timely fashion and not just screw around. Whether or not you ever invoke lemon is your call at the end.

My RS4 had been in several times before I contacted AoA and they were unaware I was unhappy prior to my call. By the time I notified them, I was so personally upset by it all I didn't want it fixed - yet they sent a regional tech out and fixed my car anyway and kept trying to pressure me to keep it and I would not. Fixed and they offered bucket of gold for my trouble and I was not interested.

I argue that had I gotten AoA involved earlier, they would have sent their regional tech out to fix my car earlier and in the end I may not have lemoned it. That is the true advantage of the lemon law. Leverage to get it fixed right, if you so choose, and not just an automatic buyback.

And given enough frustration, I would argue that many would willingly take their money and walk away. My RS4 WHEN IT RAN was a superior street car to my subsequent M3s. My M3s ran, every day, though. And when there was a problem, BMW fixed it right away.

[offthewall]

My 2013 S4 is at the dealer now. I just got a call from my service rep. They have been looking at the car for about 6 hours now. No fault codes, can't reproduce the issue as we all know already. The service rep is committed to pursuing the issue for me. They are keeping the car for the weekend and getting Audi technical involved.

In the meantime I'm driving a fully loaded 2013 A4 Quattro loaner. It's a very odd sensation since it looks like I'm driving my car but someone took all the guts out of it. LOL. The same color as my S4 too. I stomp on it and nothing, the brakes are also far less effective than the S4. You really can't nail it around corners like the S4 so you don't really notice that the car handles that much differently most of the time. Try and take a corner really fast and boy you notice then! I also miss my Dynamic Steering. It takes a lot more input to take a sharp turn or maneuver out of a tight parking spot. I haven't taken it on the highway, so I can't comment on the steering there. But it didn't have any notchy issues (although neither does mine except for the single severe instance Wednesday). I though my stock S4 looked like SUV status, this A4 lookes 2 inches higher even though I think it's only supposed to be 1". The 245/18's instead of the 255/19's contribute to that.

Anyway, enough about the A4. I will post here whatever my dealer and Audi Technical have to say about my S4 steering issues. Missing my S4 already :(

OK, I heard back from the dealer. Audi technical wants to replace the steering rack. The rack is on "RED" order directly from Germany. I'm not exactly sure what RED means but in won't be in for 1-2 weeks. Dealer and Audi do not want me to drive the car until the rack is replaced. They are concerned it's a safety issue. I'm going to miss my S4 but from everything so far in this process, I've got no reason to believe that the new rack wouldn't fix my issue. The entire process today seemed very professional. I was informed throughout the day as the dealer got information from Audi. The dealer felt that because the rack was on RED order directly from Germany that "Audi is probably replacing a lot of steering racks".

[IceAero]

I disagree for two reasons.

One, this is a safety issue. This is not just "my car feels funny".

Two, invoking lemon law provides leverage. If they know you are knowledgeable of the law, have researched it, and are willing to pursue it lights a fire under the corporate ass to get this fixed in a timely fashion and not just screw around. Whether or not you ever invoke lemon is your call at the end.

My RS4 had been in several times before I contacted AoA and they were unaware I was unhappy prior to my call. By the time I notified them, I was so personally upset by it all I didn't want it fixed - yet they sent a regional tech out and fixed my car anyway and kept trying to pressure me to keep it and I would not. Fixed and they offered bucket of gold for my trouble and I was not interested.

I argue that had I gotten AoA involved earlier, they would have sent their regional tech out to fix my car earlier and in the end I may not have lemoned it. That is the true advantage of the lemon law. Leverage to get it fixed right, if you so choose, and not just an automatic buyback.

And given enough frustration, I would argue that many would willingly take their money and walk away. My RS4 WHEN IT RAN was a superior street car to my subsequent M3s. My M3s ran, every day, though. And when there was a problem, BMW fixed it right away.

Well, I'll agree to a point.

If you think this a safety issue, then yes, the lemon law leverage could apply.

Of course I have had the same issue that everyone here is reporting, though maybe my experience is different. With 7,000 miles on my car I can occasionally notice the lack of even resistance and resulting appearance of a lack of precise control. Outside of dynamic mode it is hardly noticeable on my car. As presented, it is not a safety issue for me. If I had to guess without pouring over some of the engineering drawings for this steering system, I believe the problem could be in the variable resistance method used by this electromechanical system (I won't call it 'boosting' anymore). One of the advantages of this system is the ability to optionally drive the servos, unlike the hydraulic systems which cannot have their loading force removed as I have seem them implemented.

I've said it months ago and I'll say it again, this is a transfer function issue that needs to be redesigned in the controller software. I have to imagine that Audi understands this and is working on a fix. If indeed it is mechanical then, well, I'm not sure what the cause would be. But possibly some interaction between the engagement of the servo drive and the operation of the variable resistance. But again, I don't know how they implement the variable resistance. And this is only based off my observations as an engineer.



So the bottomline is that software update (not the one that's floating around already) - if Audi come up with a new version - should fix the problem as long as the sensor itself is not defective. I am shocked that Audi dealers are replacing the racks because it's kind of obvious to me that it is not a steering rack issue due to the explanation above....

If above does not produce consistent results (ie sometimes it happens, sometimes it does not), it is likely a defective sensor that is "fooling" the car to think that it needs additional boost and the steering assist (or servotronics) is malfunctioning. I don't think the problem is steering rack related.


I'm with this guy^

Here are two older papers on the system VW designed. I do not know if this is used in the B chassis.

http://tos.pp.fi/koukku/892403.pdf

http://www.volkspage.net/technik/ssp/ssp/SSP_317.pdf

VW users with this system do not appear to be reporting any issues. So there is Something Different about ours.

[spl1011]

I've said it months ago and I'll say it again, this is a transfer function issue that needs to be redesigned in the controller software. I have to imagine that Audi understands this and is working on a fix. If indeed it is mechanical then, well, I'm not sure what the cause would be. But possibly some interaction between the engagement of the servo drive and the operation of the variable resistance. But again, I don't know how they implement the variable resistance. And this is only based off my observations as an engineer.

All of the 2nd or 3rd order filters in the world won't compensate for a bad sensor input, which is a hardware component. Software usually doesnt fail - there may be bugs but it is a consistent failure, it wont change from one day to the next.
I was told the Audi Tech that checked out my car with the new rack installed noted some "data of significance" when turning my car off and on again with regards to the steering.
My thought is the ECU is initialized by currupted data or data getting currupted (including from input source data). I would agree it could be patched by SW but the variablility of it indicates its a harware issue/source.

Truth is Audi has a real Engineering problem.

[spl1011]

OK, I heard back from the dealer. Audi technical wants to replace the steering rack. The rack is on "RED" order directly from Germany. I'm not exactly sure what RED means but in won't be in for 1-2 weeks. Dealer and Audi do not want me to drive the car until the rack is replaced. They are concerned it's a safety issue. I'm going to miss my S4 but from everything so far in this process, I've got no reason to believe that the new rack wouldn't fix my issue. The entire process today seemed very professional. I was informed throughout the day as the dealer got information from Audi. The dealer felt that because the rack was on RED order directly from Germany that "Audi is probably replacing a lot of steering racks".

*sigh* I was told the same thing over a month ago... but im still here... with a bad alignment too... and a nicked steering wheel...

[kooltechie]

minor update on my car -

according to my SA, as they were taking the tie rod end out, the sleeves came with it (although NOT supposed to) and they need to replace them, but won't have the parts till Monday.
so my car is still on a lift and I'll pick it up on Tuesday.

thought I'd be able to spend a good amount of time checking out the new steering rack over this weekend, but I guess it'll have to be next week [>_>]

[offthewall]

*sigh* I was told the same thing over a month ago... but im still here... with a bad alignment too... and a nicked steering wheel...

A bad alignment would cause all sorts if issues. My S4 needed an alignment at about 2000 miles. After that the steering wheel alignment was perfect and the car drove great.

I've experienced one single occurrence of the notchy steering. One call to the dealer and the car was in service the very next day with me in a brand new loaner. After a couple of phone calls from my SA with them working with Audi technical, we have the diagnosed part on order. So far my experience is going as good as I could possibly expect.

If your dealer can't do a simple alignment, I wouldn't use their installation of a steering rack as a case study for others. Bozo work is bozo work.

[achilleas101]

All of the 2nd or 3rd order filters in the world won't compensate for a bad sensor input, which is a hardware component. Software usually doesnt fail - there may be bugs but it is a consistent failure, it wont change from one day to the next.
I was told the Audi Tech that checked out my car with the new rack installed noted some "data of significance" when turning my car off and on again with regards to the steering.
My thought is the ECU is initialized by currupted data or data getting currupted (including from input source data). I would agree it could be patched by SW but the variablility of it indicates its a harware issue/source.

Truth is Audi has a real Engineering problem.
you're right- if a sensor is physically screwed up, perfect software won't function properly and it's a hardware (sensor) problem. however, we of course do not know the software, its algorithms, inputs, variable, logic etc. for all we know, they added some tiny little variable based on some fractional degree of difference to some angle/rotational speed/yaw/whatever, and someone messed up their math. maybe there is an algorithm that is triggered if a, b, c, d and e all hit a certain threshold, and variable e should have been .01545 instead of .0145 that they actually entered in the formula. so it doesn't always trigger because all the 5 conditions aren't met. but it gets triggered incorrectly because of the 1/100th lower threshold that was programmed. so that's how it could be a software issue that seemingly doesn't "always" happen. it just doesn't happen based on variables we're aware of.

we don't know...you may be right that its just a sensor... i hope that's it. Either way though, hopefully they'll figure it out. and hopefully that's by the time i get mine in late March. [:D]

[thirddecay]

So I took my car for servicing today and mentioned the issue with the notchy/slippy steering and they noted that another person dropped their car off a few days ago and has left it with them to investigate. They had a representative from Audi of Canada here, but not sure if the two were related. Service techs mentioned that they will continue to look into that car but noted that my car was experiencing the same issue, but don't know the cause as of yet (BS answer? maybe, but will give them benefit of the doubt). Guess it's good I don't have to leave my car there to be guinea pigged... :) Thanks to whoever left their car at Audi Uptown. :)

I'll keep following up with them on their findings of the next week or so. I'm not having consistent issues or dangerous problems, it's just more of an annoyance than anything else when it does slip.

well that makes at least 3 of us that have gone by audi uptown with this complaint. when i was last there they mostly just brushed me off with silly crowning explanations :(

[Jones2012s4]

last time I experienced a severe notchy steering was almost exactly 2 weeks ago, 1/15 - it was quite dangerous on the freeway headed to work....couldn't keep the car driving straight and thought I was gonna get into an accident if I didn't pay attention and effort 10x more than usual, but couldn't go to the dealer at the time because of my work schedule.
since then the steering issue has been rather trivial - the symptoms were not as severe and occurred less often.

I'll head down to my dealer in less than 30 min to drop off my car for the steering rack replacement....crossing my fingers this will fix the issue [:|]

I can't imagine this on extreme road conditions such as ice, or slush. I really hope Audi steps up, this is my first Audi and I absolutely love it (2012) so I am interested to see how they react to this!

[thedollardoctor]

I've said it months ago and I'll say it again, this is a transfer function issue that needs to be redesigned in the controller software. I have to imagine that Audi understands this and is working on a fix. If indeed it is mechanical then, well, I'm not sure what the cause would be. But possibly some interaction between the engagement of the servo drive and the operation of the variable resistance. But again, I don't know how they implement the variable resistance. And this is only based off my observations as an engineer.



In my opinion there are TWO separate issues with the steering. The "slip" across 12 o'clock I believe is exactly what you are describing above, and feels like an electric or software related issue. The notchiness at all angles and speeds "feels" very mechanical and likely a rack replacement will fix that issue.

I have experienced both issues in my car, though the "slip" is the one I have noticed the most over the time I've had it.

[thedollardoctor]

UPDATE:

Alright, so I picked up my car from the dealer yesterday after they swapped out the new steering rack, did an alignment and the 5,000 mile service and well, wish I could report something, but I never got over 30mph on the way home in rush hour traffic! On top of that we are getting 2-4" of snow today in Dayton, OH so I won't likely be logging much wheel time today.

Until I get enough variable time behind the wheel with highway driving etx, I'm not comfortable saying whether my issues are "fixed" or not. Overall the steering feels the same as when I dropped it off, though I did not experience notchiness or the slip on my 15 min drive home at 30mph.

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

I would also like to report that I had a nice long chat with my new Service Manager (a MAJOR improvement from the guy who was fired) and got him up to speed on the whole sordid afair this far, and told him I had already lodged a safety complaint with NHTSA and WILL pursue lemon law if need be, but that I have total confidence in my tech Tim and will give him every possible chance within his power to "fix" this issue before going the legal route. I am confident that my SM understands how serous I am and is fully committed to making this right for me.

I wish those of you who were having bad dealership experiences had better support, that's the only thing that is making this all more tolerable to me.

As a side note, I found it funny when my SM called with my tech to get the proper torque specs for my AK when they were reinstalling it after the rack replacement. Now THAT'S SERVICE!

I will report back with my impressions of the steering once I have had the chance to really drive it for a few days.

[Nuccadoc]

UPDATE:

Alright, so I picked up my car from the dealer yesterday after they swapped out the new steering rack, did an alignment and the 5,000 mile service and well, wish I could report something, but I never got over 30mph on the way home in rush hour traffic! On top of that we are getting 2-4" of snow today in Dayton, OH so I won't likely be logging much wheel time today.

Until I get enough variable time behind the wheel with highway driving etx, I'm not comfortable saying whether my issues are "fixed" or not. Overall the steering feels the same as when I dropped it off, though I did not experience notchiness or the slip on my 15 min drive home at 30mph.

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

I would also like to report that I had a nice long chat with my new Service Manager (a MAJOR improvement from the guy who was fired) and got him up to speed on the whole sordid afair this far, and told him I had already lodged a safety complaint with NHTSA and WILL pursue lemon law if need be, but that I have total confidence in my tech Tim and will give him every possible chance within his power to "fix" this issue before going the legal route. I am confident that my SM understands how serous I am and is fully committed to making this right for me.

I wish those of you who were having bad dealership experiences had better support, that's the only thing that is making this all more tolerable to me.

As a side note, I found it funny when my SM called with my tech to get the proper torque specs for my AK when they were reinstalling it after the rack replacement. Now THAT'S SERVICE!

I will report back with my impressions of the steering once I have had the chance to really drive it for a few days.

thanks for the update JR, and nice to see a brand new rack, not just slapping the same thing back on :) Eagerly awaiting your thoughts as you test it out. Thanks for all your help in this thread, and others as well, what a good community.

Also happy to see the new rack already done, as my car is just going into production now and should have the new one. Will compare notes with you when it arrives. You are indeed lucky to have such a good dealership and SA and tech to work with. Wish they were all like that! Love the 'called for torque on the AK' bit, that IS service! A model for others to follow for sure. Best of luck! Glad you have your car back now!

[Heresy]

UPDATE:

Alright, so I picked up my car from the dealer yesterday after they swapped out the new steering rack, did an alignment and the 5,000 mile service and well, wish I could report something, but I never got over 30mph on the way home in rush hour traffic! On top of that we are getting 2-4" of snow today in Dayton, OH so I won't likely be logging much wheel time today.

Until I get enough variable time behind the wheel with highway driving etx, I'm not comfortable saying whether my issues are "fixed" or not. Overall the steering feels the same as when I dropped it off, though I did not experience notchiness or the slip on my 15 min drive home at 30mph.

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

I would also like to report that I had a nice long chat with my new Service Manager (a MAJOR improvement from the guy who was fired) and got him up to speed on the whole sordid afair this far, and told him I had already lodged a safety complaint with NHTSA and WILL pursue lemon law if need be, but that I have total confidence in my tech Tim and will give him every possible chance within his power to "fix" this issue before going the legal route. I am confident that my SM understands how serous I am and is fully committed to making this right for me.

I wish those of you who were having bad dealership experiences had better support, that's the only thing that is making this all more tolerable to me.

As a side note, I found it funny when my SM called with my tech to get the proper torque specs for my AK when they were reinstalling it after the rack replacement. Now THAT'S SERVICE!

I will report back with my impressions of the steering once I have had the chance to really drive it for a few days.

That's encouraging that they've replaced the rack with a new part. That gives me confidence that my yet-to-be-built S4 will have the new part installed on the line. Please keep us up-to-date with how it's going one way or the other. Positive feedback in your case will be just as valuable as negative.

[offthewall]

UPDATE:

Alright, so I picked up my car from the dealer yesterday after they swapped out the new steering rack, did an alignment and the 5,000 mile service and well, wish I could report something, but I never got over 30mph on the way home in rush hour traffic! On top of that we are getting 2-4" of snow today in Dayton, OH so I won't likely be logging much wheel time today.

Until I get enough variable time behind the wheel with highway driving etx, I'm not comfortable saying whether my issues are "fixed" or not. Overall the steering feels the same as when I dropped it off, though I did not experience notchiness or the slip on my 15 min drive home at 30mph.

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

I would also like to report that I had a nice long chat with my new Service Manager (a MAJOR improvement from the guy who was fired) and got him up to speed on the whole sordid afair this far, and told him I had already lodged a safety complaint with NHTSA and WILL pursue lemon law if need be, but that I have total confidence in my tech Tim and will give him every possible chance within his power to "fix" this issue before going the legal route. I am confident that my SM understands how serous I am and is fully committed to making this right for me.

I wish those of you who were having bad dealership experiences had better support, that's the only thing that is making this all more tolerable to me.

As a side note, I found it funny when my SM called with my tech to get the proper torque specs for my AK when they were reinstalling it after the rack replacement. Now THAT'S SERVICE!

I will report back with my impressions of the steering once I have had the chance to really drive it for a few days.

Good to hear about the new rack part #. I'm waiting 1-2 weeks now for mine to come from Germany. Audi obviously knows what's up with the notchy issue now. The fact that both of our dealers got the same word from Audi to replace the steering rack and, in my case, they wanted to keep the car so I wouldn't drive it as a safety measure, gives me full confidence in the process. I don't feel like I'm being jerked around as others have here. I think having a good dealer is key.

[visualguy]

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.


Interesting - thanks! I guess Audi will have to issue a TSB or maybe even a recall for this at some point... Lots of steering racks to replace on 2013 cars on many model lines!

[Toecutter]

What benefit would it be to a dealership to purposely avoid pursuing a new steering rack? Wouldn't they get paid by Audi for the work? Is it a matter of the Service Dept. simply not being aware of the issue rather than "jerking a customer around?"

[kooltechie]

UPDATE:

Alright, so I picked up my car from the dealer yesterday after they swapped out the new steering rack, did an alignment and the 5,000 mile service and well, wish I could report something, but I never got over 30mph on the way home in rush hour traffic! On top of that we are getting 2-4" of snow today in Dayton, OH so I won't likely be logging much wheel time today.

Until I get enough variable time behind the wheel with highway driving etx, I'm not comfortable saying whether my issues are "fixed" or not. Overall the steering feels the same as when I dropped it off, though I did not experience notchiness or the slip on my 15 min drive home at 30mph.

One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

I would also like to report that I had a nice long chat with my new Service Manager (a MAJOR improvement from the guy who was fired) and got him up to speed on the whole sordid afair this far, and told him I had already lodged a safety complaint with NHTSA and WILL pursue lemon law if need be, but that I have total confidence in my tech Tim and will give him every possible chance within his power to "fix" this issue before going the legal route. I am confident that my SM understands how serous I am and is fully committed to making this right for me.

I wish those of you who were having bad dealership experiences had better support, that's the only thing that is making this all more tolerable to me.

As a side note, I found it funny when my SM called with my tech to get the proper torque specs for my AK when they were reinstalling it after the rack replacement. Now THAT'S SERVICE!

I will report back with my impressions of the steering once I have had the chance to really drive it for a few days.

That's great the replacing parts have a different part number.
Would you please post the new part number so I could compare it against the part they used on mine?
Thx!

[thedollardoctor]

That's great the replacing parts have a different part number.
Would you please post the new part number so I could compare it against the part they used on mine?
Thx!

Will do as soon as I have the paperwork. Picked it up at end of the day Friday, paperwork wasn't done yet and as it was all warranty work, didn't need to pick it up at that time. Should have it Monday or Tuesday of next week and will post part number then.

[offthewall]

What benefit would it be to a dealership to purposely avoid pursuing a new steering rack? Wouldn't they get paid by Audi for the work? Is it a matter of the Service Dept. simply not being aware of the issue rather than "jerking a customer around?"

Whatever the reason is, it's the dealership not doing their job. If others here truly have the same issue I was diagnosed with and they are still driving around without it being corrected, their dealership is failing them. Audi and my dealership did not want be driving my car until the steering rack was replaced.

I was, and still am, suspect that many here don't really have a bad steering rack. There have been quite a few descriptions that don't match what I had. I went through all of the posts here looking for language that I would have used to describe my issue and supplied them to my SA when I dropped off the car. There were a grand total of 17 posts, some of those by repeat posters that exactly fit my description of the issue I had. They key words/phrases I would say are notchy, like steering with the MMI controller, detents, humps, bumps, resistance points, and an inability to exactly position the steering wheel at 12:00 due to the detents, humps, bumps, resistance points, etc.

The posts describing vagueness, numbness, looseness, loss of steering, etc do not apply to my situation and I would guess are not the symptoms of a bad steering rack but some other issue. There are many that mention slippage as well. I suppose that could or could not apply to what I experienced but I would not have used that word.

[Jimmy Dark]

What benefit would it be to a dealership to purposely avoid pursuing a new steering rack? Wouldn't they get paid by Audi for the work? Is it a matter of the Service Dept. simply not being aware of the issue rather than "jerking a customer around?"

I think some Audi dealers are just unaware of this issue. I inquired with my local dealer (where car is on order) as to their exposure to any '2013 steering issues' and they claim they have seen none. If there is a widespread issue, that'll change! As for warranty work, I can't speak for Audi dealers per se but my BMW and Ford dealers love to do warranty work. Service revenue has good margins.

Also interested in the updated steering rack P/N from DollarDoctor... wonder how we find out if a new steering rack is being installed on the production line and if so, when this change took place.

[Seinsmeld13]

Had my 13 in for it's first service last week. Advised of my steering issues. There were no updates when they ran my serial #. Anyway, they made note of my complaint. I have an issue with the dynamic steering only. All of a sudden when at highway speeds it's as if the steering loses power with a slight tug in the wheel. I'm left using auto or comfort. Anyway....

[Doc Brown]

Also, some dealers just suck. Like any business. Some are customer oriented. some are not. Some are competent. Some are not.

The issues with my RS4 were in part due to the crappy dealership as well (they are now out of business, but were a big dealership at the time). They jerked me around, claimed that they had heard nothing of the DRC issue (it was late 2008 - serously?) and gave the car back more than once with the "operating withing specs" comment. On one of those visits, I took the car back and it was knocking as I tried to leave the parking lot. I took the SA and mechanic out that morning with it and got a "oh, that shouldn't be happening". Duh. I cannot believe any competent tech could have driven the car and not noticed it. It was like someone was smacking the floorboard of the car with a baseball bat. It was not subtle. I have to assume they simply did not test the car. As a company going out of business (of which I was not aware at the time), one could question their business practices and motives.

When I finally lemoned my RS4 there were other RS4s out back in the holding pen. There was also an R8 in the shop that had been there for months. Three RS4s probably represented the sum total of the cars they sold over a year or two. And they claim they heard nothing of this? BS.

The local BMW dealership in the area was outstanding and when I had problems with the M-DCT in my first M3, they were also on the phone with BMW USA, not just me, and fought to get my car fixed right. They refused to change out internal parts and demanded a new transmission be sent.

I have since moved and there are two Audi dealerships where I now live. One was rude and dismissive during the process of trying to order and buy, so they did not get my business. The other was receptive, helpful, polite and gave me a good $ on my M3 trade. They got my business. I will be going in for first service in about a month. I will judge service then.

I do agree with offthewall above. I am not sure everyone here is talking about the same thing. Some of you are describing intermittent loss of control of the car. Others are describing a vagueness to the steering performance and inconsistency. Those are way different.

My S4 feels a bit vague and the electric steering is weird, but the car goes where I am pointing it and I am not getting the notchiness or highway wander. Perhaps the Alu Kreuz brace will fix that vagueness, but I would be surprised if there was that much slop and chassis flex in a new Audi. Then again, I drove some of the B7 Cabriolets and the cowl shudder was horrifying, so who knows. If nothing breaks on my car by spring, I may put the brace in. I do miss the precision of the steering in my M3s, but the steering for the S4 is adequate and reasonably precise if not communicative in my car.

Those of you with the wander and slippage/notchiness have a much different issue. That is a safety issue.

If your dealership is not willing to work with you and listen to you, take your business elsewhere. Regardless of the build quality of the car, a bad dealership can ruin your experience if they are not capable/willing to take the time to really fix your car right and in a durable manner. I made that mistake before. Now before I sign on the line, I ask to meet the Service manager and see the loaner fleet.

[gboogie88]

I guess you can add me to the issues list. I felt the notchiness this morning.

I was driving in Auto mode and felt the notchiness. I turned the car off for about an hour...change the mode to comfort and I didn't experience it. Then i switched it to Dynamic mode and didn't feel the issue either. Basically when the steering working properly, the steering wheel feels solid. When it's not, it feels loose and you feel a "notch" when you turn the wheel a millimeter....does that sound about right?

As stated as many others, it's something that can't be re-enacted all the time. I guess I will be contacting the Service Mgr at my dealership tomorrow.

[Seinsmeld13]

Also, some dealers just suck. Like any business. Some are customer oriented. some are not. Some are competent. Some are not.

The issues with my RS4 were in part due to the crappy dealership as well (they are now out of business, but were a big dealership at the time). They jerked me around, claimed that they had heard nothing of the DRC issue (it was late 2008 - serously?) and gave the car back more than once with the "operating withing specs" comment. On one of those visits, I took the car back and it was knocking as I tried to leave the parking lot. I took the SA and mechanic out that morning with it and got a "oh, that shouldn't be happening". Duh. I cannot believe any competent tech could have driven the car and not noticed it. It was like someone was smacking the floorboard of the car with a baseball bat. It was not subtle. I have to assume they simply did not test the car. As a company going out of business (of which I was not aware at the time), one could question their business practices and motives.

When I finally lemoned my RS4 there were other RS4s out back in the holding pen. There was also an R8 in the shop that had been there for months. Three RS4s probably represented the sum total of the cars they sold over a year or two. And they claim they heard nothing of this? BS.

The local BMW dealership in the area was outstanding and when I had problems with the M-DCT in my first M3, they were also on the phone with BMW USA, not just me, and fought to get my car fixed right. They refused to change out internal parts and demanded a new transmission be sent.

I have since moved and there are two Audi dealerships where I now live. One was rude and dismissive during the process of trying to order and buy, so they did not get my business. The other was receptive, helpful, polite and gave me a good $ on my M3 trade. They got my business. I will be going in for first service in about a month. I will judge service then.

I do agree with offthewall above. I am not sure everyone here is talking about the same thing. Some of you are describing intermittent loss of control of the car. Others are describing a vagueness to the steering performance and inconsistency. Those are way different.

My S4 feels a bit vague and the electric steering is weird, but the car goes where I am pointing it and I am not getting the notchiness or highway wander. Perhaps the Alu Kreuz brace will fix that vagueness, but I would be surprised if there was that much slop and chassis flex in a new Audi. Then again, I drove some of the B7 Cabriolets and the cowl shudder was horrifying, so who knows. If nothing breaks on my car by spring, I may put the brace in. I do miss the precision of the steering in my M3s, but the steering for the S4 is adequate and reasonably precise if not communicative in my car.

Those of you with the wander and slippage/notchiness have a much different issue. That is a safety issue.

If your dealership is not willing to work with you and listen to you, take your business elsewhere. Regardless of the build quality of the car, a bad dealership can ruin your experience if they are not capable/willing to take the time to really fix your car right and in a durable manner. I made that mistake before. Now before I sign on the line, I ask to meet the Service manager and see the loaner fleet.
My dealership is great, this isn't a dealership issue. For example they had my wife's GTI in for a minor fix out of warranty. They were unable to get it done when arrived so they gave me a loaner for the weekend on a$100 job. Anyway, there are no TSB for my car. If there were they would have done and got paid by Audi Canada. I'm taking out the local service rep for a spin so that he can get a feel of what I am reporting. Hopefully that will lead to some sort of software update or replacement of a failed part. I'll report back once I've had therep out for a spin.

[407guy]

No issues for us with our 2013 B8.5. *knock on wood*

Only have about 1,200 miles on the car.


Update for me.

Took the car on the freeway today, 200 miles round trip. We have the 19" with Continental tires.

Trip down was in Comfort (100 miles). Trip back was in Dynamic (100 miles). Both ways speeds 70-80 mph range. Mostly cruise control too.

Can't say I felt any issues in either mode. Yeah, there was some wind on the drive back that caused me to adjust but nothing I can say jumped out to me to make me think there was an issue.

Not sure if this is an issue just waiting to appear though.

I have a set of VMRs in the garage waiting to be installed but I'm not sure right now only because if the issue appears after the new wheels are installed I don't want the dealership blaming the non-OEM wheels to be causing whatever issue.

I'll add, our S4 has a build date of 07/12. (Side note, we bought it the fist week of December 2012. Damn, that car had been sitting around for some time.)

[stactum]

Dropping my car tomorrow. Wish me luck!

[thedollardoctor]

Good luck man!!

[Surfdoc37]

UPDATE:



One thing I do want to report though is that the rack that was installed on my car is a COMPLETELY new part, it HAS BEEN redesigned from the OEM and has a new "suffix" on the part number and a completely different heat shield. My tech even said there was a note with it that explicitly stated to NOT re-install the OEM heat shield. So for what it's worth, this was in fact a new rack completely.

Can you share the part # for the replacement rack?

My car is still at the dealer awaiting arrival of replacement parts, I'd like to confirm that it will likewise be the redesigned rack.

Thanks.

[Vandalrg]

Looks like I've got the "notchy" problem as well. While driving home last night in light snow at around 40mph I felt the "notch" at TDC. As has been stated before it's very noticeable when it appears, and fortunately it was only apparent for a couple of minutes before it went away. Usually when I first start the car I'm forced to turn the wheel completely at least to one side, sometimes both before I drive away. This time I was able to pull straight out of the parking spot and just took a mild left and right turn before entering the highway.

Looking forward to hearing from those of you with new steering racks if your issue has been resolved.

2013 S4 with 9,200 miles
Build date 6/2012
Temperature - ~28 degrees F
Speed - 40 mph
Steering mode - Auto

[Weminuche]

What exactly is included in the steering racks that are being replaced? I assume that it is a multi-component module, not just the rack itself. Does it include sensors, microcontrollers, other components?

[JFrA5]

thedollardoctor how is your car driving since the rack replacement? I am awaiting a call back today or tomorrow from AOA to see what the next course of action is for my A5. Based on my conversation with AOA last week, it sounds like I am going to have to leave my car with them again in the near future for a number of days to have them try and 'replicate' the issue. I'll keep you all posted on my continued trials and tribulations with this issue.

[Tomasz@Startup]

Ok you guys officially suck. I just got in the car to drive home from work. Pulled out of the parking lot onto a 55mph road. Immediately I noticed (couldn't miss it) the "notchy" issue. It felt like there was a detent in the steering every inch. Bump, bump, bump as I turned the wheel left and right. With one of the detents directly at 12, you can not drive in a straight line.

I pulled over and shut the car off then back on. Immediately back to normal. I drove 30 min home and all was fine. Its unusually warm this evening. 61 after a week of temps in the teens. So there goes the cold weather theory. It has to be an electrical issue.

I'll be calling my dealer in the am.

I have the same issue.

[isles1]

For those having issues, please post your build dates.

[spl1011]

Can you share the part # for the replacement rack?

My car is still at the dealer awaiting arrival of replacement parts, I'd like to confirm that it will likewise be the redesigned rack.

Thanks.

+1

Also, I thought we already did the "share the build date" thing and it was all over the map...

[spl1011]

For those of you getting a new rack, please share what the color of the assembly (if you can see it, its visible on the drivers side on cars with a 2.0T engine) Both my "original" and "new" rack were/are painted green, like an olive green. A part number would be best, but my thinking is if you dont have the part number perhaps they are visually different.

[kooltechie]

It seems like I won't pick up my car tomorrow.
The work is not done yet and I don't think it's a good idea to rush them to finish it by tomorrow.
I'm a bit concerned if the work itself is getting done properly, but I'll know when I get my car back, hopefully on Wed.

[offthewall]

For those having issues, please post your build dates.

My car was one of the very first custom build orders. I ordered immediately when the 2013 order sheet was posted here. The car arrived at the dealer June 30th. I took delivery July 3rd 2012.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[thedollardoctor]

@ Weminuche I actually asked my tech if the new steering rack included steering angle sensors (as that is something HE thought might be related to the issue when I first told him about the problem) and he said it did not. I do not know all that is included in "the rack" but it doesn't appear it includes sensors etc

@ spl1011 you are correct, we tried to tie the issue to the build date and it was all over the map. As for the part number, I'll call my dealership tomorrow to track this down for all of you on here. As for the color of my new rack, I have no idea, not even sure where to look for it actually, if you give me more specific info on where to look I'll check for you.

@ Kooltechie something doesn't seem right with how long it's taking them to replace your rack. My rack swap literally only took a couple hours, including the alignment and 5,000 mile service. Maybe my tech is just really good, but something doesn't seem right about it taking so long

@ JFra5 still only have about a hundred miles on the new rack, but I have to say overall it's MUCH BETTER! Everything about it just feels more "secure" and "smooth". I guess that's the thing I notice MOST when driving it, is how smooth the new rack feels. I've intentionally been driving in all different modes and in conditions that I usually felt the previous issues and so far, no problems. The notchiness is completely gone and so far no slipping sensation. In dynamic mode on the highway (which is when I was having the slipping issue most often before the swap), the car feels much more "secure" and holds a straight line with no need to adjust the steering wheel. Also, minor adjustments of the wheel ACTUALLY changes the direction of the car, shocker!! I have also noticed the the feedback between the tires and the road are communicated MUCH better to the steering wheel. It's like before, there was NO feel for the road and the car was just all over the place, and now it goes where I want it to go and I can feel the road. Major improvement overall. I'll withhold ALL judgments until I get at least 1,000 miles without ANY issues, but for now I am VERY happy and impressed.

Hope this update gives all of you with these issues more confidence that there may in fact be a fix for these issues! Overall the steering in the S4 is still not as great as I would want it to be (in comparison to previous Infinitis I have owned), however I now feel it is as good as it can be with the electric steering. I remain hopeful that they will continue to work on the software and we may see a future update that further improves the overall experience.

[JFrA5]

Thanks for the update thedollardoctor. I'm more optimistic than I was a few weeks ago, but still am working with AOA and my dealership to get my car in and acknowledge the issue. I hope the fix works for you but also hope you remain active in this forum for those of us still seeking an answer. My car is set to go back to the dealership next Wednesday the 13th and they said they may need to keep my car a few days which I'm not overly pleased with, but hopefully I'm one step closer to resolution. Would you mind sharing the dealership you worked with, their phone number and the techs first name that replaced your rack? Seems like he is knowledgeable and since he has done the work and is aware of the issue, maybe my dealer can reach out to him to help them understand the problem. You can PM me the info so it's not posted all over the Internet, but I would greatly appreciate the assist. Thanks for any help you can provide!!

[JFrA5]

Some guy posted a YouTube video of his steering wheel notchy issue if you guys want to check it out

[thedollardoctor]

Thanks for the update thedollardoctor. I'm more optimistic than I was a few weeks ago, but still am working with AOA and my dealership to get my car in and acknowledge the issue. I hope the fix works for you but also hope you remain active in this forum for those of us still seeking an answer. My car is set to go back to the dealership next Wednesday the 13th and they said they may need to keep my car a few days which I'm not overly pleased with, but hopefully I'm one step closer to resolution. Would you mind sharing the dealership you worked with, their phone number and the techs first name that replaced your rack? Seems like he is knowledgeable and since he has done the work and is aware of the issue, maybe my dealer can reach out to him to help them understand the problem. You can PM me the info so it's not posted all over the Internet, but I would greatly appreciate the assist. Thanks for any help you can provide!!

You're welcome man. And believe me, I intend to stick around these forums and monitor how everyone else's attempts at repairs go and help any way I can!

PM sent with dealer and tech info. Good luck bro!

[JFrA5]

thedollardoctor is the man!!! I'm calling them tomorrow and hopefully they are willing to help me out. I appreciate the help more than you know.

[Heresy]

Some guy posted a YouTube video of his steering wheel notchy issue if you guys want to check it out

Link please.

[IceAero]

thedollardoctor, this is great news, thank you very much!

I am definitely looking forward to this, maybe letting it soak into AOA that these new racks should be given to an owners complaining about this issue. For someone reason I doubt we'll see a TSB, but who knows.

[JFrA5]

http://youtu.be/MW9M2n3Cym4

[thedollardoctor]

^^^ WOW!! That is EXACTLY IT!! The "slip" then grab. This guy has it REAL bad!

[spl1011]

The video is showing the EXACT same problem I've experienced (I too took video but never uploaded it).

Funny how what you perceive to be a slip then grab is what I take to be notchiness. I can see why it would be described that way.

[achilleas101]

http://youtu.be/MW9M2n3Cym4
wait, is the steering wheel doing that on its own? is that what you guys are saying? if so, man, that's pretty bad. it looks like you're driving through mangled city streets and the tires are turning you left and right constantly.

[Vandalrg]

That's exactly what mine was doing, but it wasn't as extreme. Great example though.

[IceAero]

Very good example. Worse than mine, but the same.

Also in his description he claims to have had his power steering go out. Now That is scary. I don't want to imagine how hard this car is to steer without the electric motors.

[Surfdoc37]

http://youtu.be/MW9M2n3Cym4

I have a similar video. Steering a car that is hard to steer with one hand and shooting iPhone video with the other is not neccessarily recommended.

Picking up my car with the replaced rack tomorrow, will report back. Brief phone call today with service and it was not clear if the rack is the same part or a revamped one, but they replaced it, reprogrammed the control module, and did an alignment per Audi tech.

[JFrA5]

Yeah in the video it's worse than mine but I did have a day in December that was that bad.

[gendry]

I know some people have posted build dates and it has been over a wide range of summer and into start of fall 2012. But what is the latest build of someone with the issue? My car is 11/2012. I bought it Saturday and no problem after 50 miles... but I am gonna keep a close look out for these issues in case they develop over time.

[Tomasz@Startup]

My car is going in on the 11th, I hope for this:

"Everything about it just feels more "secure" and "smooth". I guess that's the thing I notice MOST when driving it, is how smooth the new rack feels. I've intentionally been driving in all different modes and in conditions that I usually felt the previous issues and so far, no problems. The notchiness is completely gone and so far no slipping sensation. In dynamic mode on the highway (which is when I was having the slipping issue most often before the swap), the car feels much more "secure" and holds a straight line with no need to adjust the steering wheel. Also, minor adjustments of the wheel ACTUALLY changes the direction of the car, shocker!! I have also noticed the the feedback between the tires and the road are communicated MUCH better to the steering wheel. It's like before, there was NO feel for the road and the car was just all over the place, and now it goes where I want it to go and I can feel the road. Major improvement overall. I'll withhold ALL judgments until I get at least 1,000 miles without ANY issues, but for now I am VERY happy and impressed. "

[Leor604]

I have a friend looking at buying a '13 but I've told him to hold off. Interested to see if anybody who has received their car very recently has the "new" rack. In other words, are they now being fitted at the factory or are we still getting old ones which will likely need replacement.

[407guy]

wait, is the steering wheel doing that on its own? is that what you guys are saying?

+2

I can't see if his left hand is on the steering wheel.

[stactum]

My car is going in on the 11th, I hope for this:

"Everything about it just feels more "secure" and "smooth". I guess that's the thing I notice MOST when driving it, is how smooth the new rack feels. I've intentionally been driving in all different modes and in conditions that I usually felt the previous issues and so far, no problems. The notchiness is completely gone and so far no slipping sensation. In dynamic mode on the highway (which is when I was having the slipping issue most often before the swap), the car feels much more "secure" and holds a straight line with no need to adjust the steering wheel. Also, minor adjustments of the wheel ACTUALLY changes the direction of the car, shocker!! I have also noticed the the feedback between the tires and the road are communicated MUCH better to the steering wheel. It's like before, there was NO feel for the road and the car was just all over the place, and now it goes where I want it to go and I can feel the road. Major improvement overall. I'll withhold ALL judgments until I get at least 1,000 miles without ANY issues, but for now I am VERY happy and impressed. "


I think your post may mislead some people who might miss "I hope for this" part just like I did and thought it's the actual result :)

There isn't any update on my car that I dropped off yesterday. I told dealer that it's there but he has to try it multiple times a day to get the notchiness. The only positive that I got 13 A6 loaner which is nice, but different :)

[thedollardoctor]

UPDATE:

Just got off the phone with my service manager. Here is the part number of the new rack that has a new suffix from the original part and comes with a completely new heat shield as well:

#- 8K1423055 AC

Hope this helps guys!

[JFrA5]

Hey guys...I was able to obtain the part number for the new rack from thedollardoctor's dealership. It is 8K1423055AC. My car is going in next Wednesday and I am now armed with all kinds of inofrmation. Hope this helps a few others!!!

[thedollardoctor]

Hey guys...I was able to obtain the part number for the new rack from thedollardoctor's dealership. It is 8K1423055AC. My car is going in next Wednesday and I am now armed with all kinds of inofrmation. Hope this helps a few others!!!

Too funny, Jim was just calling me to give me the info and asked if I knew of someone from Des Moines who was calling in, I said that was possible but I wasn't sure, he said he'd call back and find out. Guess that was you :-)

Told Jim you and some others are getting jerked around by crappy dealerships with this issue and I appreciated him helping out. Hope he was in fact helpful!

[spl1011]

WTF?!?! That is the SAME part number on my work order for the steering rack they put in on 12/27/2012. I STILL HAVE ISSUES!!! Had it yesterday. Had to turn the wheels lock to lock this morning.

Not feeling good about this... :S

[thedollardoctor]

WTF?!?! That is the SAME part number on my work order for the steering rack they put in on 12/27/2012. I STILL HAVE ISSUES!!! Had it yesterday. Had to turn the wheels lock to lock this morning.

Not feeling good about this... :S

Hmmm, that's not good news at all! Makes me less confident about this being a solution overall. One possibility could be the quality of your install vs mine or maybe the new heat shield? Not sure, but that's not good that we have same part number (same suffix as well?) and this appears to have fixed mine and not yours?

Do you have ADS? Dynamic steering?

[JFrA5]

Oh no...that is not good news.....sails deflating as I type this. Well looks like this is not the silver bullet that we all were hoping for. Sounds like maybe we are still in the trial and error phase, but still appreciate thedollardoctor and his dealership taking the time to help me out.

[JFrA5]

Also I do not have ADS on my car, but it seems to impact both those with it, and also those without it.

[visualguy]

UPDATE:

Just got off the phone with my service manager. Here is the part number of the new rack that has a new suffix from the original part and comes with a completely new heat shield as well:

#- 8K1423055 AC

Hope this helps guys!

What's the suffix on the original part that came installed in the car? Is it AE?

[JFrA5]

Is it possible that they made design or production changes to the rack but still retained the original part number?

[Leor604]

Is it possible that they made design or production changes to the rack but still retained the original part number?

No. They would not be able to tell who has a new one vs an old one.

[MrFunk]

There are just too many posts to read through.

Has anyone had the rack replaced with the new rack - different part number - and had this issue 100% resolved? Sorry if this has already been posted but I'm too lazy to read through everything.

[JFrA5]

BClippard had his rack replaced and it resolved the issue, and a few others have recently have had it done but it may be too early to tell if the problem will come back. Some say it has resolved it and some say that it came back. Spl1011 just had his done a little over a month ago and experienced the problem resurfacing as of yesterday.

[Gotchaa]

No. They would not be able to tell who has a new one vs an old one.

If one person has this issue thus far with the new part# it could just be a bad part, let's not jump to conclusions just yet, we have a handful of folks still waiting.

[JFrA5]

Maybe we should have all the folks that have had the rack replacement comment if it resolved the issue or if the issue ultimately returned.

[spl1011]

I had the rack replaced on the 27th and problem resurfaced on the 28th (the next day).

Tonight, I will put my car on ramps, crawl under, fish around and read the part number right off the dumb thing itself and not rely on my paperwork.

I hate to deflate sails. My dealer wants to replace my rack again and I have been putting it off to see if I hear from others.

My problems started at 3k miles. The new rack only took a day for symptoms to reappear. My fear is that I get another rack and that rack fails at 55k miles, well out of warranty. Hence my kicking the can down the road comment many posts ago...

[achilleas101]

I had the rack replaced on the 27th and problem resurfaced on the 28th (the next day).

Tonight, I will put my car on ramps, crawl under, fish around and read the part number right off the dumb thing itself and not rely on my paperwork.

I hate to deflate sails. My dealer wants to replace my rack again and I have been putting it off to see if I hear from others.

My problems started at 3k miles. The new rack only took a day for symptoms to reappear. My fear is that I get another rack and that rack fails at 55k miles, well out of warranty. Hence my kicking the can down the road comment many posts ago...
what's your state's lemon law? 3 times for same issue?

[thedollardoctor]

What's the suffix on the original part that came installed in the car? Is it AE?

I don't know. I would probably have to ask my tech that question. Anyone else know?

[407guy]

Before my question gets lost.... in the video is the car doing that to the wheel? Or the driver?

I guess I'm looking for more explanation beyond "that's it!" for those of us who have not experienced this problem.

Thanks.

[spl1011]

what's your state's lemon law? 3 times for same issue?

4 tries for the same issue then a letter and 40-day wait. Ive had at least 6 visits with everything from parts replaced to "foreman noted the problem. working per design."

Bleh... I may have to go that route.

[IceAero]

Before my question gets lost.... in the video is the car doing that to the wheel? Or the driver?

I guess I'm looking for more explanation beyond "that's it!" for those of us who have not experienced this problem.

Thanks.

The driver is doing that, his hand is on the wheel initiating the moves and the wheel is offering an inconsistent resistance.

[spl1011]

its hard to convey in video but you can tell visually that the wheel "catches" and stays in certain spots when overcomming the initial resistance. Once the wheel catches it is hard to overcome and the wheel cannot be placed in between the notches. It can get so heavy to overcome that it feels like there is no PS.
It feels like driving using an MMI control wheel.

[Skagerak]

OK, this is what seems to be happening in the Nordic countries, at least what I can figure out by the information I have received:
- The electro-mechanic steering in the -13 facelift is the culprit
- They tried to replace steering racks last year already, but on some cars this even made the problem worse
- Yesterday, customer service replied that some sort of software update is being worked upon in Germany, no release date set as of yet
- What I know it affects at least A4 Allroad and A5 Sportback
- Some has said that it also affects all 2013 A4, A5, A6, I assume the S-models as well
- There is definately no official information from Audi, the lid is on (they probably have not completed the fix yet, so no TSB)
- They are aware of the problem, the say it's a "comfort" problem and not a "security" problem, I do NOT agree
- They are without a doubt taking this seriously, and will contact all owners that have complained as soon as a solution is in place

This is my feedback, if it can help in any way.
Thank's for everyone's input, it sure makes a difference in these frustrating times!

[JFrA5]

That is great info Skagerak. Did you get this info direct from Audi??

[407guy]

The driver is doing that, his hand is on the wheel initiating the moves and the wheel is offering an inconsistent resistance.

Solid.

Thank you.

[407guy]

its hard to convey in video but you can tell visually that the wheel "catches" and stays in certain spots when overcomming the initial resistance. Once the wheel catches it is hard to overcome and the wheel cannot be placed in between the notches. It can get so heavy to overcome that it feels like there is no PS.
It feels like driving using an MMI control wheel.

Thanks. [up]

[Skagerak]

I noticed the problem myself after 200km in my brand new car.
I called and asked what this is all about, and they aknowledged the problem, but did not have any other information.
The have said that they will get back to everyone as soon as they have more information. The have a long list...

My guess is that there are a number of German engineers scratching their heads at this moment in Ingolstadt!
There have been articles in car magazines over here complaining about this, but it's not killing you during a testdrive, it's
when you have to live with it daily that freakes you out completely!

After going ballistic over this, I actually have some faith today. I think there will be a fix not too far in the future, especially
after getting the "software" feedback yesterday from customer service!

[JFrA5]

How long have you had your car Skagerak?? My build date is 06/12.

[gboogie88]

I think the majority of the dealerships know about this issue but are trying to play it down because it may hurt their future sales. Even the Service Mgr at my dealership knows about it. His response was there was a power steering software update but it wasn't fixing the issue.

Too bad the dealerships are not forth coming about issues.


I noticed the problem myself after 200km in my brand new car.
I called and asked what this is all about, and they aknowledged the problem, but did not have any other information.
The have said that they will get back to everyone as soon as they have more information. The have a long list...

My guess is that there are a number of German engineers scratching their heads at this moment in Ingolstadt!
There have been articles in car magazines over here complaining about this, but it's not killing you during a testdrive, it's
when you have to live with it daily that freakes you out completely!

After going ballistic over this, I actually have some faith today. I think there will be a fix not too far in the future, especially
after getting the "software" feedback yesterday from customer service!

[Skagerak]

Built November 2012.
Hope this helps.

[achilleas101]

Skagerak... join date Feb 1 2013... i nominate him for best new forum member. [:D]

[JFrA5]

How long have you had your car Skagerak?? My build date is 06/12.

[JFrA5]

Wonder why Audi is still authorizing rack replacements on these cars. Sounds like word of the software fix is not making it to dealers.

[Skagerak]

"Wonder why Audi is still authorizing rack replacements on these cars. Sounds like word of the software fix is not making it to dealers. "

MaybeNot in the US/Canada, who knows.
In the Nordics there are no new rack replacements, they're on hold it seems as it didn't fix the issue anyway!
My car was built in November 2012.

[JFrA5]

Sounds like Germany needs to make a call to Audi USA...hahahaha

[thedollardoctor]

The driver is doing that, his hand is on the wheel initiating the moves and the wheel is offering an inconsistent resistance.

This! He is holding the wheel and then making a "slight" adjustment in a direction and having the wheel's resistance COMPLETELY let go, then grab again, then doing it back the other way.

As some have already stated this video is an EXTREME example of this issue. It is usually much more subtle, but THAT is the issue.

[thedollardoctor]

@ Skagerak thanks for the insight man! My thought from the beginning has been that the "slip" feels like an electric issue that could be fixed by a software update, but the notchiness I have experienced feel VERY different and like a mechanical issue, that a rack replacement "could" fix. Either way, my steering feels COMPLETELY different with the new rack than it EVER did with the old one. The steering has never felt this good. Now as I've said before, I only have 100 miles on this new rack and I drive it everyday just waiting for the issue to pop back up again, so I can completely understand why many don't feel the new rack is a fix. Either way, for now it has been a major improvement for me for the time being as they work to find the REAL fix. What a mess

[stactum]

Either way, my steering feels COMPLETELY different with the new rack than it EVER did with the old one.

How different? I hope "M3-like" different :)

[Franky_d]

Wonder why Audi is still authorizing rack replacements on these cars. Sounds like word of the software fix is not making it to dealers.

Driving the brand new car out of the garage just to realize it is a faulty product! Reminds my case 100%! They should stop all sales with immediate effect! After more than half a year dealing with the issue, not only they have not figured out how to 100% solve it, they let more and more faulty cars on the roads ....

[Franky_d]

N
"Wonder why Audi is still authorizing rack replacements on these cars. Sounds like word of the software fix is not making it to dealers. "

MaybeNot in the US/Canada, who knows.
In the Nordics there are no new rack replacements, they're on hold it seems as it didn't fix the issue anyway!
My car was built in November 2012.
New rack part number was introduced from 1 October 2012. If your build date is after that, than the cause of the problem is not in the rack itself

[IceAero]

Driving the brand new car out of the garage just to realize it is a faulty product! Reminds my case 100%! They should stop all sales with immediate effect! After more than half a year dealing with the issue, not only they have not figured out how to 100% solve it, they let more and more faulty cars on the roads ....

Yawn. This is a mess. They need to stop wasting money on new racks if they don't do anything!

[holmes4]

My allroad was built 7/13. I have put more than 1000 miles on it since the rack replacement and the problem has not yet returned.

[thedollardoctor]

How different? I hope "M3-like" different :)

Never driven an M3, but I always compare steering quality to the various Infiniti G-series cars I've owned which were EXCELLENT in the steer feel area. I still do not think it approaches that level, but in comparison to how it was for the first 5,000 miles I drove it, it's night and day better! Buttery smooth in comfort mode, secure and confident in dynamic mode, overall road to steering wheel communication is worlds better as well. It's almost as if when I first installed the AK I could "kind of" tell the difference and now it like "AH-HA!" I get it.

[JFrA5]

So they changed the racks in October 2012.....this gets more confusing by the day..hahaha....I am just going to take my car in next week and fight for the rack replacement. If that does not work, I will just hope there is a software upgrade in the near future that will ultimately rectify the issue. Kooltechie did you get your car back today after the rack replacement??

[thedollardoctor]

I still think there are SEVERAL possible reasons why some cars have been better since the new rack went on and others haven't. I also think there are at LEAST two separate issues people are dealing with. For me it was primarily the "slip" (as shown in the YouTube video recently) and less so the notchiness (which occurred mostly when very cold, in any drive mode and speed and steering wheel position). The slip was ONLY when crossing 12 o'clock in the steering wheel, was more subtle, mostly on highways and worst in comfort mode.

[JFrA5]

Interesting dollardoctor...I thought the Youtube video really showed the notchiness when crossing the 12 o'clock when driving in a straight line. I get the notchy steering on my A5, but not the slipping. I am sure that you have outlined the slipping issue in a previous post. I may have to go digging.

[kooltechie]

Due to an unexpected issue with the tie rod end sleeves coming apart, I'll get my car back tomorrow afternoon.
Can't wait to see how the new steering rack/parts perform.

[JFrA5]

I think we are all anxious to see how your car performs after the replacement.

[kooltechie]

^ +1... myself as well [:|]

[JFrA5]

At least you have had some actual work done on your car....I am still in the investigative phase with my dealer and I have a funny feeling that they are not going to autorize any work until they can reporduce the issue. I am already planning to be without my car for 3-5 days on this one.

[kooltechie]

Still don't understand why your dealer won't replace the steering rack for you.
It's not like they'd lose money if the repair was done.
Btw, I dropped off my car on thurs last week, so it'll be almost 6 days without it....sucks.

[JFrA5]

They have not done it yet because they cannot replicate the issue and up to this point they have no other customers that have complained about the issue. I do not believe that they have even called Audi on this yet, but now that AOA is involved I expect that this will be the proposed solution once my car is in next week, but then I am going to have to wait a few more weeks for the rack to even arrive. Then be without the car for another few days....it would be nice to drive the car I pay for...hahaha...as long as they get this all sorted out is all I really care about at this point.

[kooltechie]

FYI, the ETA on the new steering rack seems to be about a week even though the dealers say it's back-ordered.
So hopefully yours won't take longer and will get fixed soon.

[spl1011]

http://www.audizine.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_20130205_170814_800x600_.jpg (http://www.audizine.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=69679&title=2013-allroad-steering-rack&cat=500)

Here's a picture of my rack (giggity). The car still exhibits the notchiness and vagueness in steering. This rack was installed on 12/26-27.

[visualguy]

http://www.audizine.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_20130205_170814_800x600_.jpg (http://www.audizine.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=69679&title=2013-allroad-steering-rack&cat=500)

Here's a picture of my rack (giggity). The car still exhibits the notchiness and vagueness in steering. This rack was installed on 12/26-27.

Any pictures of the rack heatshield that's been mentioned?

[spl1011]

no pictures but there was some heat shield material taped onto the right (passenger) side. Nothing else special around it. I think if you turned your wheel full left you may be able to see it (didnt try).

[offthewall]

Good to hear about the new rack part #. I'm waiting 1-2 weeks now for mine to come from Germany. Audi obviously knows what's up with the notchy issue now. The fact that both of our dealers got the same word from Audi to replace the steering rack and, in my case, they wanted to keep the car so I wouldn't drive it as a safety measure, gives me full confidence in the process. I don't feel like I'm being jerked around as others have here. I think having a good dealer is key.

UPDATE

I got a call from the dealer today. The rack came in earlier than expected (today). It is on the car now. They are going to drive it around a bit tomorrow and if all looks good I should have the car back tomorrow afternoon.




Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[kooltechie]

I got a call from the dealer today. The rack came in earlier than expected (today). It is on the car now. They are going to drive it around a bit tomorrow and if all looks good I should have the car back tomorrow afternoon.


it seems the "backordered" steering racks are arriving sooner than expected - I only waited a few days as well.
I hope your car is fixed for good so you can pick it up tomorrow [up]

[Mrads]

I know some people have posted build dates and it has been over a wide range of summer and into start of fall 2012. But what is the latest build of someone with the issue? My car is 11/2012. I bought it Saturday and no problem after 50 miles... but I am gonna keep a close look out for these issues in case they develop over time.

Mine is 09/12 and has the problem


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Franky_d]

http://www.audizine.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_20130205_170814_800x600_.jpg (http://www.audizine.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=69679&title=2013-allroad-steering-rack&cat=500)

Here's a picture of my rack (giggity). The car still exhibits the notchiness and vagueness in steering. This rack was installed on 12/26-27.

quite a lot of part numbers on the rack: 8K0909144B and 8K0909144E and 8K1423055AC.
Is the last one (8K1423055AC) a sticker? If yes, makes me think they have not re-manufactured the whole unit with a NEW part number, but tried to patch the existing one :)

[Stereodude]

Is it possible new part number indicates the software update was done on the rack (the one there was a TSB about on some cars)?

[Gordon Shumway]

Add me to the list. I have been getting the "grip, slip, grip" feeling on and off, but lately the notchiness at 12 o'clock has been more prevalent.
I have an appointment to take my car in tomorrow to have it looked at. The SA said that I am not the first person to complain of this, but so far they have had no luck replicating the problem in the other cars. So, I'm not feeling too hopeful that this will get resolved quickly.

[spl1011]

I came across this page from a german forum. Use google translate if you dont understand the language. What is great is that there is a breakdown of the rack and components.
If those holds true then it is more of the same - Audi knows about it and is working on a fix. What irks me is that they claim it is NOT a safety issue. - yeah right - try driving this notchy crap at 70mph on the highway, passing a big rig in the rain and not bounce around in your lane.

http://www.audi4ever.com/v2/blog/details/24265/Probleme-mit-der-elektromechanischen-Lenkung-im-Audi/index.html

Here's the text translated:

"For those owners of Audi, which determines a problem with their electro-mechanical steering like it here in this thread >> CLICK ME << describes here for the exclusive at this point the current score.

Tuesday 29.Jän. 2013

audi4ever has researched for you and we have the following information directly from eklusiv Audi Ingolstadt for YOU:

the thing is now that Audi officially admits the problem! It does not stop at any car with this steering and it is definitely NOT safety-relevant!

It is working very hard and specialists it! Neither a solution nor a date for a solution can currently be said officially. Any of the merchants you currently promises a date or even a week, tells nonsense.

No service following is for ALL who are affected by this issue, and there can always turn when the dealer should have left him in the lurch and the problem is not recognized or not of this:

free customer service hotline for U.S.: 0800 - 2834 7378423
free customer service hotline for AT: 0043-662-4681701

Mail: audi.kundenbeziehungen @ audi.co.at

We (ie audi4ever) should now be informed immediately if there is anything new on the subject and to any information, we will give you further course immediately!
"

[achilleas101]

I came across this page from a german forum. Use google translate if you dont understand the language. What is great is that there is a breakdown of the rack and components.
If those holds true then it is more of the same - Audi knows about it and is working on a fix. What irks me is that they claim it is NOT a safety issue. - yeah right - try driving this notchy crap at 70mph on the highway, passing a big rig in the rain and not bounce around in your lane.

http://www.audi4ever.com/v2/blog/details/24265/Probleme-mit-der-elektromechanischen-Lenkung-im-Audi/index.html

Here's the text translated:

"For those owners of Audi, which determines a problem with their electro-mechanical steering like it here in this thread >> CLICK ME << describes here for the exclusive at this point the current score.

Tuesday 29.Jän. 2013

audi4ever has researched for you and we have the following information directly from eklusiv Audi Ingolstadt for YOU:

the thing is now that Audi officially admits the problem! It does not stop at any car with this steering and it is definitely NOT safety-relevant!

It is working very hard and specialists it! Neither a solution nor a date for a solution can currently be said officially. Any of the merchants you currently promises a date or even a week, tells nonsense.

No service following is for ALL who are affected by this issue, and there can always turn when the dealer should have left him in the lurch and the problem is not recognized or not of this:

free customer service hotline for U.S.: 0800 - 2834 7378423
free customer service hotline for AT: 0043-662-4681701

Mail: audi.kundenbeziehungen @ audi.co.at

We (ie audi4ever) should now be informed immediately if there is anything new on the subject and to any information, we will give you further course immediately!
"
interesting info... that bolded line made zero sense to me, so i googled other translators, and best of what i can make of the various translations, is that it says the numbers below are for people to contact if anyone has this problem and the dealers have not acknowledged or helped them with it.

[spl1011]

quite a lot of part numbers on the rack: 8K0909144B and 8K0909144E and 8K1423055AC.
Is the last one (8K1423055AC) a sticker? If yes, makes me think they have not re-manufactured the whole unit with a NEW part number, but tried to patch the existing one :)

It is a sticker. Dont think they dissassembled it and replaced internal components as a "patch".

[spl1011]

interesting info... that bolded line made zero sense to me, so i googled other translators, and best of what i can make of the various translations, is that it says the numbers below are for people to contact if anyone has this problem and the dealers have not acknowledged or helped them with it.

lol... yeah, its very challenging to read and understand.
Reading through the posts contained in the linked thread there is one poster (or two, cant remember), who is a tech, mentioned Audi halting part replacements/ordering until another fix is announced. I wonder how soon that word makes it to the states (if it does at all).

[Surfdoc37]

I'm fixed, at least for now.

Picked up car today and no symptoms for the first 10 miles driving home on the highway or subdivision streets.

What they did:

Replaced rack with # 8K1-423-055-AC

Coded new control module. Part of the new rack? Beats me, service "advisors" aren't really "car guys" with a deep interest in the mechanical issues at hand as much as they are there to get you in and out and nto a loaner vehicle (which is OK, I guess) and the service manager/head mechanic was out when I picked up.

Performed end stop adaptation. Sounds like there could be something to the whole lock to lock at startup temporary fix and a flawed software read, but again, technical details not forthcoming.

What they said:

They had another car with the same issue dropped of yesterday, an A4 not a S4, and are contacting Audi today.

I asked if they were fixing the steering on the two other new cars they had which the SM had originally driven and compared to mine, finding the same issue and thinking everything was therefore OK. Answer, "no".

[laakness]

lol... yeah, its very challenging to read and understand.
Reading through the posts contained in the linked thread there is one poster (or two, cant remember), who is a tech, mentioned Audi halting part replacements/ordering until another fix is announced. I wonder how soon that word makes it to the states (if it does at all).

That is exactly what my dealer told me 2 weeks ago.

[thedollardoctor]

I'm fixed, at least for now.

Picked up car today and no symptoms for the first 10 miles driving home on the highway or subdivision streets.

What they did:

Replaced rack with # 8K1-423-055-AC

Performed end stop adaptation. Sounds like there could be something to the whole lock to lock at startup temporary fix and a flawed software read, but again, technical details not forthcoming.
".

Thanks for the update Surfdoc! Need to talk to my tech as he made mention of some VAG COM coding that was to be done in accordance with the rack swap as well and even told me I would likely lose my VAG COM customizations as a result. Will try to call Tim and get more info on ALL that was done with the swap and report back.

[Pilfer]

http://www.audizine.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_20130205_170814_800x600_.jpg (http://www.audizine.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=69679&title=2013-allroad-steering-rack&cat=500)

Here's a picture of my rack (giggity). The car still exhibits the notchiness and vagueness in steering. This rack was installed on 12/26-27.

Haha, solid Quagmire reference, had me laughing like a fool at work.

[Franky_d]

According to ETKA (Audi internal system) For A4/S4:

Normal Power steering (without dynamic)
Original part number: 8K1 423 055 S
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AC

With dynamic steering:
Original part: 8K1 423 055 T
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AE

[visualguy]

According to ETKA (Audi internal system) For A4/S4:

Normal Power steering (without dynamic)
Original part number: 8K1 423 055 S
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AC

With dynamic steering:
Original part: 8K1 423 055 T
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AE

Thanks!

However, the change(s) between the original and replacement may have nothing to do with the notchy steering problem - who knows what they changed and why, and the notchy steering problem may appear in both.

[rs4dreams]

After doing some more driving, I realized we actually seem to have 3 distinct issues:

1. Dead spot in the center of the steering that comes and goes (steering wheel "lets go" and "grabs"). I have still not experienced this, but a lot of people in this thread describe this.
2. Notchy feeling when turning the wheel at any position. Someone described it as "the wheel rotates like the MMI dial." I rarely experience this, most often during cold weather.
3. Notchy feeling at 12 o'clock. This is a subtler notchy feeling than (2). It is annoying because it slightly hampers precision when making small corrections while going straight.

Has anyone else experienced the two distinct notchy issues?

[JFrA5]

I only get the notchy feeling at 12 o'clock

[Tomasz@Startup]

I intermittently get notchy feeling when turning the wheel at any position. Temperatures have an impact.
I also can't keep the car going straight, but I do not feel a notch in this instance. It just looks/seems like I am drunk.

[kooltechie]

I went to pick up my car during lunch today and drove 30 miles back to work.
Here are my thoughts on the steering behavior after the repair:


Steering feels a bit heavier now - ADS in “Comfort” mode, but it needed a bit more effort to turn the steering wheel than before (kinda in between Comfort and Dynamic). I suppose there’s less amount of steering assist/boost with the new steering box?
There seems to be more steering feedback now - it used to feel numb and disconnected, but there’s definitely an improvement with the new steering box.
There's no notchy/slip-n-grab behavior - I understand there has been no announcement/TSB/recall made by Audi in regards to a permanent fix yet, but I’m crossing my fingers these issues won’t ever come back.


This weekend, I’m planning to drive as many times as I can and carefully monitor the steering performance/behavior in different times/temps/speeds.

So the initial impression of the new steering box (only after 30 miles of driving on a single trip) is fairly positive - I like the way my car steers much more now.

The part # for the steering box is 8K1-423-055-AC.

BTW, they damaged my rims with the wheel alignment adaptors.
As I was doing a walk-around to make sure there were no damages, I found all 4 rims damaged on the edges of the rims where the adaptors had been put on - relatively small dents mostly, but there are few deep scrapes.
I showed the damages to SA and gave him a few suggestions as a resolution.
I’ll let you know how it goes as they respond shortly.

[offthewall]

UPDATE

I got a call from the dealer today. The rack came in earlier than expected (today). It is on the car now. They are going to drive it around a bit tomorrow and if all looks good I should have the car back tomorrow afternoon.




Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

I picked up the car today. Had it a total of 10 minutes, long enough to drive around the block and back into the service bay. The steering wheel was crooked again, cocked slightly to the left when going straight.

I'm supposed to pick it up tomorrow. My confidence level has dropped.

[Gotchaa]

@ Skagerak thanks for the insight man! My thought from the beginning has been that the "slip" feels like an electric issue that could be fixed by a software update, but the notchiness I have experienced feel VERY different and like a mechanical issue, that a rack replacement "could" fix. Either way, my steering feels COMPLETELY different with the new rack than it EVER did with the old one. The steering has never felt this good. Now as I've said before, I only have 100 miles on this new rack and I drive it everyday just waiting for the issue to pop back up again, so I can completely understand why many don't feel the new rack is a fix. Either way, for now it has been a major improvement for me for the time being as they work to find the REAL fix. What a mess

Did they do an alignment as well as any unknown software update with specific install instructions from Audi Germany that may not have been disclosed on your work order? Perhaps they are testing 2 fixes on early cars to see what works before finalizing the solution...meaning you may be a beta tester...

[Gotchaa]

Never driven an M3, but I always compare steering quality to the various Infiniti G-series cars I've owned which were EXCELLENT in the steer feel area. I still do not think it approaches that level, but in comparison to how it was for the first 5,000 miles I drove it, it's night and day better! Buttery smooth in comfort mode, secure and confident in dynamic mode, overall road to steering wheel communication is worlds better as well. It's almost as if when I first installed the AK I could "kind of" tell the difference and now it like "AH-HA!" I get it.

I owned an Infiniti for 11 years, I think the Audi blows it away, so again these impressions and the extent of it seems to be subjective to a degree with a few common themes...glad your fix is working so far, but I do not miss the steering/handling on the Gs in comparison.

[stactum]

I got a call today from SM also stating that they would suggest a new steering rack.
It may take up to a week for it to arrive and my car was there since Monday.
I'll wait and see, at least enjoying A6 as my loaner, but miss my S4.

We'll keep you updated.

[Pilfer]

I got a call today from SM also stating that they would suggest a new steering rack.
It may take up to a week for it to arrive and my car was there since Monday.
I'll wait and see, at least enjoying A6 as my loaner, but miss my S4.

We'll keep you updated.

Hey, what dealer is this through?

[clays4]

Hello, I just wanted to introduce myself - I joined the forum to reply to this thread. My 2013 estoril S4 is currently at the dealership awaiting a new steering rack. I've been experiencing the dead spot with poor on center feel and the "slip" and grab sensation since I picked up the car 3200 miles ago. The notch sensation at 12 o'clock has also occurred several times. I was the first person to complain at my dealership about 6 weeks ago and since then several other patrons have brought their car in for evaluation. Currently 3 cars are awaiting rack replacement. I'll post an update when the rack is replaced.

[kooltechie]

I picked up the car today. Had it a total of 10 minutes, long enough to drive around the block and back into the service bay. The steering wheel was crooked again, cocked slightly to the left when going straight.

I'm supposed to pick it up tomorrow. My confidence level has dropped.

[facepalm] I feel your frustration....hopefully the steering is fixed for good.

[kooltechie]

Hello, I just wanted to introduce myself - I joined the forum to reply to this thread. My 2013 estoril S4 is currently at the dealership awaiting a new steering rack. I've been experiencing the dead spot with poor on center feel and the "slip" and grab sensation since I picked up the car 3200 miles ago. The notch sensation at 12 o'clock has also occurred several times. I was the first person to complain at my dealership about 6 weeks ago and since then several other patrons have brought their car in for evaluation. Currently 3 cars are awaiting rack replacement. I'll post an update when the rack is replaced.

Welcome, Clay!
Where in south are you from?

[Surfdoc37]

After doing some more driving, I realized we actually seem to have 3 distinct issues:

1. Dead spot in the center of the steering that comes and goes (steering wheel "lets go" and "grabs"). I have still not experienced this, but a lot of people in this thread describe this.
2. Notchy feeling when turning the wheel at any position. Someone described it as "the wheel rotates like the MMI dial." I rarely experience this, most often during cold weather.
3. Notchy feeling at 12 o'clock. This is a subtler notchy feeling than (2). It is annoying because it slightly hampers precision when making small corrections while going straight.

Has anyone else experienced the two distinct notchy issues?

I suspect these are all just different ways of describing the same phenomenon. I had one problem, would not quibble with any of those descriptions of it. FWIW.

[rs4dreams]

I suspect these are all just different ways of describing the same phenomenon. I had one problem, would not quibble with any of those descriptions of it. FWIW.

Though I haven't experienced the first issue, the second and third are definitely distinct symptoms. I can tell when one is happening versus the other. Perhaps the underlying mechanical/software issue is the same, but it manifests itself in different ways.

It's possible that 1 and 3 are the same though. I put them in different buckets because some people were talking about having difficulty staying in their lane, and I'd say that 3 is more of an annoyance than something that would cause me to swerve/overcorrect into another lane.

[stactum]

Hey, what dealer is this through?

International

[gboogie88]

Would this be valid statements?

- Cars with Dynamic steering suffers steering wheel notchiness and slips
- Cars without Dynamic steering only suffers steering wheel notchiness

[stactum]

Would this be valid statements?

- Cars with Dynamic steering suffers steering wheel notchiness and slips
- Cars without Dynamic steering only suffers steering wheel notchiness

I don't have Dynamic steering and experienced slips as well.

[offthewall]

I don't have Dynamic steering and experienced slips as well.
I have the Dynamic Steering and I don't understand the "Slips" description. Mine was Notchy and like turning the MMI wheel with perceived detents. I would not use the word slip.

[JFrA5]

How is the rack replacements thedollardoctor and kooltechie??

[kooltechie]

How is the rack replacements thedollardoctor and kooltechie??

Posted already :)
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/513862-Steering-Issues-2013?p=8423381&viewfull=1#post8423381

FYI, no issues on the way to work this morning - 8 miles of freeway and 2 miles of local street driving

[thedollardoctor]

How is the rack replacements thedollardoctor and kooltechie??

Haven't driven my car last couple days, sent ECU to GIAC to be flashed to Stage I....... putting car back together now :-)

[offthewall]

I went to pick up my car during lunch today and drove 30 miles back to work.
Here are my thoughts on the steering behavior after the repair:


Steering feels a bit heavier now - ADS in “Comfort” mode, but it needed a bit more effort to turn the steering wheel than before (kinda in between Comfort and Dynamic). I suppose there’s less amount of steering assist/boost with the new steering box?
There seems to be more steering feedback now - it used to feel numb and disconnected, but there’s definitely an improvement with the new steering box.
There's no notchy/slip-n-grab behavior - I understand there has been no announcement/TSB/recall made by Audi in regards to a permanent fix yet, but I’m crossing my fingers these issues won’t ever come back.


This weekend, I’m planning to drive as many times as I can and carefully monitor the steering performance/behavior in different times/temps/speeds.

So the initial impression of the new steering box (only after 30 miles of driving on a single trip) is fairly positive - I like the way my car steers much more now.

The part # for the steering box is 8K1-423-055-AC.

BTW, they damaged my rims with the wheel alignment adaptors.
As I was doing a walk-around to make sure there were no damages, I found all 4 rims damaged on the edges of the rims where the adaptors had been put on - relatively small dents mostly, but there are few deep scrapes.
I showed the damages to SA and gave him a few suggestions as a resolution.
I’ll let you know how it goes as they respond shortly.

UPDATE 2:

I just picked up the car (again) with the new steering rack.

My replacement rack was part number: 8K1 423 055 AE. I have Dynamic Steering and this # jives with the information posted earlier by "Franky_d".

They got the steering wheel on straight this time :)

I agree with "kooltechie" that the steering feels a tag heaver now. I only ever drive it in Dynamic. I like it. It's as good as my 2008 328xi was weight wise now.

On an extended drive back from the dealer, I took highways and many back roads, town traffic, etc. Steering performed perfectly, no notchieness, etc. Better than ever due to the slightly increased weighting.

High hopes that it stays this way!

[thedollardoctor]

UPDATE 2:

I just picked up the car (again) with the new steering rack.

My replacement rack was part number: 8K1 423 055 AE8K1 423 055 AE. I have Dynamic Steering and this # jives with the information posted earlier by "Franky_d".

They got the steering wheel on straight this time :)

I agree with "kooltechie" that the steering feels a tag heaver now. I only ever drive it in Dynamic. I like it. It's as good as my 2008 328xi was weight wise now.

On an extended drive back from the dealer, I took highways and many back roads, town traffic, etc. Steering performed perfectly, no notchieness, etc. Better than ever due to the slightly increased weighting.

High hopes that it stays this way!

Interestingly my part number ends "AC" and I have dynamic steering and full ADS....... Wtf?!? Looks like I may have to talk to my dealership to make sure I received the correct rack!

Still performing normally, but not stoked about the thought I might have wrong part on my car. This shit is annoying!

[kooltechie]

FYI, they must’ve had some VAG COM coding done (or a full reset) with the steering repair - all my VAG COM mods seem to be gone.
No biggie…will re-apply them this weekend.

[stactum]

Interestingly my part number ends "AC" and I have dynamic steering and full ADS....... Wtf?!? Looks like I may have to talk to my dealership to make sure I received the correct rack!

Still performing normally, but not stoked about the thought I might have wrong part on my car. This shit is annoying!

I actually do have high hopes for my steering rack replacement! :)

The Dynamic Steering offthewall was referring to is a part of Driver Assist package, is that the one you have also? I was under impression you didn't have it - it's the one that controls the ratio. I posted a video few posts ago on what it is.

Also every time you referring to ADS I am kind of confused is this Audi Drive Select Control or Adaptive Damping Suspension?

[thedollardoctor]

At my dealership now, double checked and my rack was the one ending in AE :-) it's all good

[JFrA5]

Interestingly my part number ends "AC" and I have dynamic steering and full ADS....... Wtf?!? Looks like I may have to talk to my dealership to make sure I received the correct rack!

Still performing normally, but not stoked about the thought I might have wrong part on my car. This shit is annoying!

That is irratating for sure. Keep us posted on what your dealership has to say.

[JFrA5]

At my dealership now, double checked and my rack was the one ending in AE :-) it's all good

That is interesting as he told me on the phone the one that ended in AC, but I did tell him I had an A5 in my coicemail so maybe he just looked it up quick before he called me.

[BzzzBom]

Haven't driven my car last couple days, sent ECU to GIAC to be flashed to Stage I....... putting car back together now :-)

You will love the GIAC tune. I have had their tune for about three months.

[offthewall]

You will love the GIAC tune. I have had their tune for about three months.

I didn't know there were any ecu tunes for the 2013 S4's yet.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[thedollardoctor]

I didn't know there were any ecu tunes for the 2013 S4's yet.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

GIAC is the only one.

[boss2k]

I have 800 miles on my car and dont experience the steering wheel issue both in freeway and local roads, is it safe to assume i wont have the issue?

[spl1011]

I have 800 miles on my car and dont experience the steering wheel issue both in freeway and local roads, is it safe to assume i wont have the issue?

No. My symptoms started at ~3500 miles with the original rack and 24hrs with the 2nd rack.

[thedollardoctor]

No. Mine didn't show up till I had over 1,000 miles

[Bclippard]

I have 800 miles on my car and dont experience the steering wheel issue both in freeway and local roads, is it safe to assume i wont have the issue?

I didn't experience the problem till I was at like 4500 miles, once the rack was replace I have experienced it since I am a little over over 1200 miles since replaced. I am praying that in about 3000 more miles this doesn't happen again.

[spl1011]

FYI, they must’ve had some VAG COM coding done (or a full reset) with the steering repair - all my VAG COM mods seem to be gone.
No biggie…will re-apply them this weekend.

When you do get your car hooked up to VAG COM paste the steering module codes.
Many of us had a SW update to the steering module coding as part of an update and only affected certain VIN's (as many may already know).

Heres the module report before:

Address 44: Steering Assist (J500) Labels: 8K0-909-144.clb
Part No SW: 8K0 909 144 D HW: 8K0 909 144 B
Component: RCEPS H37 0505
Revision: 00001000 Serial number: 0024678889
Coding: 100000010001
Shop #: WSC 06334 000 00000
ASAM Dataset: EV_RCEPSAU48X 005010
ROD: EV_RCEPSAU48X.rod
VCID: 326BA60C65566A88E71

No fault code found.


And after the software update:
Address 44: Steering Assist (J500) Labels: 8K0-909-144.clb
Part No SW: 8K0 909 144 E HW: 8K0 909 144 B
Component: RCEPS H37 0506
Revision: 00001000 Serial number: 0024678889
Coding: 100000000001
Shop #: WSC 42399 444 11057
ASAM Dataset: EV_RCEPSAU48X 006012
ROD: EV_RCEPSAU48X.rod
VCID: 3365A3089A4C6380EC7

No fault code found.

There was a bit change on the coding. Now Audi Drive Select (Carisma) Installed is no longer selected. Also, FWIW, the SW update did not wipe away any vcds changes.


I haven't acquired module info since the steering rack replace. I have nothing in the paperwork that indicates a SW update. I will post a snapshot soon...

Edit:
Here it is today:
Address 44: Steering Assist (J500) Labels: 8K0-909-144.clb
Part No SW: 8K0 909 144 E HW: 8K0 909 144 B
Component: RCEPS H37 0506
Revision: 00001000 Serial number: 0006857075
Coding: 100000000001
Shop #: WSC 23899 444 13816
ASAM Dataset: EV_RCEPSAU48X 006012
ROD: EV_RCEPSAU48X.rod
VCID: 3365A3089A4C6380ECE

No fault code found.

[thedollardoctor]

I didn't experience the problem till I was at like 4500 miles, once the rack was replace I have experienced it since I am a little over over 1200 miles since replaced. I am praying that in about 3000 more miles this doesn't happen again.

Wait, so your issue has popped back up!? This is very disconcerting! Any specifics you care to share? Is it EXACTLY the same as before, more subtle, worse, both notchy and slipping or just one?

[gboogie88]

http://www.audizine.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_20130205_170814_800x600_.jpg (http://www.audizine.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=69679&title=2013-allroad-steering-rack&cat=500)

Here's a picture of my rack (giggity). The car still exhibits the notchiness and vagueness in steering. This rack was installed on 12/26-27.



Based on my vag com auto-scan, that's the same exact part I have on my car and I haven't gone in to get it looked at yet....I am going in on the 15th for the technician to "test drive" it.

[kooltechie]

I didn't experience the problem till I was at like 4500 miles, once the rack was replace I have experienced it since I am a little over over 1200 miles since replaced. I am praying that in about 3000 more miles this doesn't happen again.

Wait, you've experienced the issue with the new steering rack/box?
Thought you didn't have any issues after the rack replacement....

[offthewall]

I have 800 miles on my car and dont experience the steering wheel issue both in freeway and local roads, is it safe to assume i wont have the issue?

No, you're not safe. Mine didn't experience it until 3000 miles. Only happened once, a week later I have a new steering rack.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[kooltechie]

When you do get your car hooked up to VAG COM paste the steering module codes.
Many of us had a SW update to the steering module coding as part of an update and only affected certain VIN's (as many may already know).


Will do

[Bclippard]

Wait, so your issue has popped back up!? This is very disconcerting! Any specifics you care to share? Is it EXACTLY the same as before, more subtle, worse, both notchy and slipping or just one?

I have not experienced it that was a typo sorry about that.

[spl1011]

So am I the only poor mutha-effin sap that still has the problem with a new rack?!?! FML!!!

C'mon... one of you guys... get notchy!!!

Edit: Actually, there was another gentleman in another forum that stated his was getting notchy again after 400 miles on a new rack. Havent heard back from him since....

[offthewall]

So am I the only poor mutha-effin sap that still has the problem with a new rack?!?! FML!!!


For my sake, I truly hope you are the only one.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[unit]

any big updates? debating on trading it in and getting a 2012, or another car. should i wait until AoA does something?

[kooltechie]

So far so good for me.
I've put more than 150 miles since the steering box replacement and there have been no steering issues.
The steering feels very good, responsive and confident, I really like the way my car drives now.
It should've been like this from the factory [facepalm]

Crossing my fingers it stays trouble-free forever

[offthewall]

any big updates? debating on trading it in and getting a 2012, or another car. should i wait until AoA does something?

Two days with the new steering rack and steering is great. Snowed in today. No notchyness. Feel is better than the car was with the old rack. Happy so far.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Maltitol]

I've got about 7k miles on my 13 S4 and have only had this problem 1 and a half times. I experienced the notchyness at low speeds shortly after my 5k inspection, and it quickly went away after turning the wheel left/right and swapping drive modes. Another time the steering felt loose and it went away after I moved the wheel from far left to far right (around 6k miles). I haven't had any trouble for a while and haven't said anything to my dealer. I'm watching this thread to see if a major fix comes around. No sense in getting a new rack if it doesn't fix the problem yet. TheDollarDoctor seems to have the only "redesigned" steering rack and I'll wait to hear more from him.

[offthewall]

...TheDollarDoctor seems to have the only "redesigned" steering rack and I'll wait to hear more from him.

No, I got the new part number as well three days ago, as did kooltechie. We all three got them put in over the last couple of weeks.

I'd at least mention it to the dealer even if you may want to put off the repair. That's the only way Audi will know the extent of the issue. It only happened to me once as well. One call to the dealer and Audi had them replace my steering rack immediately. They didn't even want me driving the car until the new rack was in and gave me a loaner for as long as it was going to take to get the part in and installed. Luckily the new rack came in in a couple of days and in less than a week, I was back in my S4. - Just in time for it to be covered in a foot of snow today!

[Pilfer]

Just saw a post from a guy on audiworld in the s6 forum with the notchiness on the steering wheel at the twelve o'clock position. Guess its spreading.

[Gotchaa]

What happened to the SoCal crew that went down to Pacific Audi, did anyone get a rack replaced?

Also for anyone that is getting replaced racks, or has gone to a service center that is aware of the problem, please post the name and location of the service center so others can benefit from technicians familiar with diagnosing the issue.

[thedollardoctor]

I've got about 7k miles on my 13 S4 and have only had this problem 1 and a half times. I experienced the notchyness at low speeds shortly after my 5k inspection, and it quickly went away after turning the wheel left/right and swapping drive modes. Another time the steering felt loose and it went away after I moved the wheel from far left to far right (around 6k miles). I haven't had any trouble for a while and haven't said anything to my dealer. I'm watching this thread to see if a major fix comes around. No sense in getting a new rack if it doesn't fix the problem yet. TheDollarDoctor seems to have the only "redesigned" steering rack and I'll wait to hear more from him.

Actually, there are at least four of us driving with the new rack with no issues as of yet...... I agree with what offthewall said, tell your dealer about this anyway and have them call it in to Audi Tech

[boss2k]

Actually, there are at least four of us driving with the new rack with no issues as of yet...... I agree with what offthewall said, tell your dealer about this anyway and have them call it in to Audi Tech

Can you please put the part# of the new rack so that we can reference it to dealer if faced with issue .. I am touching 1k miles and it feels fine so far in all the modes

[thedollardoctor]

This info was listed a page or so back. In fact someone listed the old part numbers and new part numbers for racks WITH dynamic steering and WITHOUT dynamic steering.

[Wilbur]

Just saw a post from a guy on audiworld in the s6 forum with the notchiness on the steering wheel at the twelve o'clock position. Guess its spreading.

My new a4 just developed notchy feeling at 12 o'clock at 60 mph+. 3500 Kms on it. Guess I'll call dealer this week.

[Nuccadoc]

I am assuming that since JR's rack was installed about 10 days ago, that my car, inspected on the 4th of February, probably on production week of January 28th, that it would include the new rack, sure hope so!

[thedollardoctor]

Can you please put the part# of the new rack so that we can reference it to dealer if faced with issue .. I am touching 1k miles and it feels fine so far in all the modes

Info provided by Franky D a couple pages back:

According to ETKA (Audi internal system) For A4/S4:

Normal Power steering (without dynamic)
Original part number: 8K1 423 055 S
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AC

With dynamic steering:
Original part: 8K1 423 055 T
Replacement part from 1-Oct-2012: 8K1 423 055 AE

[thedollardoctor]

I am assuming that since JR's rack was installed about 10 days ago, that my car, inspected on the 4th of February, probably on production week of January 28th, that it would include the new rack, sure hope so!

According to my post above which was info taken from a post by Franky D, the new racks started to be installed in Oct 12' on new cars. My build date was 7/12 and it seems most others with these issues have build dates prior to 10/12 so I'm guessing you are in the clear my friend!

[Nuccadoc]

According to my post above which was info taken from a post by Franky D, the new racks started to be installed in Oct 12' on new cars. My build date was 7/12 and it seems most others with these issues have build dates prior to 10/12 so I'm guessing you are in the clear my friend!

Thanks J, between 4 hyper kids, making dinner, cleaning up, and searching through several pages of posts all at the same time, didn't seem to put that together LOL! Knew you would have the answer in seconds! :)

[thedollardoctor]

Thanks J, between 4 hyper kids, making dinner, cleaning up, and searching through several pages of posts all at the same time, didn't seem to put that together LOL! Knew you would have the answer in seconds! :)

BOOM! Happy to help Ryan :-)

[BzzzBom]

Have there been reports of steering issues in any cars with a 10/12 or later build date?

[thedollardoctor]

Have there been reports of steering issues in any cars with a 10/12 or later build date?

Id be interested to know this as well. Seems like all cars with issues have been 9/12 and earlier.

[visualguy]

I just reached 2,000 miles on my S5 without the steering issue popping up. Build date 8/12. Some people reported it showing up only after 3,000 or even 5,000 miles, so I'm not celebrating yet... Also, not sure that we can say that the new rack model that Audi has now fixes the problem until people get a chance to put some miles on these new racks...

[thedollardoctor]

I just reached 2,000 miles on my S5 without the steering issue popping up. Build date 8/12. Some people reported it showing up only after 3,000 or even 5,000 miles, so I'm not celebrating yet... Also, not sure that we can say that the new rack model that Audi has now fixes the problem until people get a chance to put some miles on these new racks...

Agreed. Holding my judgement officially till I've logged many many miles, but for now, there is a profoundly different "feel" to the steering entirely with the new rack

[BzzzBom]

Id be interested to know this as well. Seems like all cars with issues have been 9/12 and earlier.
We have some common modifications. I have the Eurocode sways, end links, AK and a GIAC tune. When the dealership replaced your rack did you need to remove the sways, end links or AK? Did the dealer need to remove anything other than the AK? Did you leave the GIAC tune on? If so, did they need to reflash over your tune? Thanks.

[visualguy]

Agreed. Holding my judgement officially till I've logged many many miles, but for now, there is a profoundly different "feel" to the steering entirely with the new rack

Even different from what it was when your car was brand new and didn't have the notchy steering? Strange...

[thedollardoctor]

We have some common modifications. I have the Eurocode sways, end links, AK and a GIAC tune. When the dealership replaced your rack did you need to remove the sways, end links or AK? Did the dealer need to remove anything other than the AK? Did you leave the GIAC tune on? If so, did they need to reflash over your tune? Thanks.

Didn't have GIAC tune yet, had all other mods though. Dealership had NO issues with suspension and steering mods. They are very mod friendly, doubt they would have cared about GIAC either. Part of the rack replacement involved some sorry of ECU flash though as it reset my VAG COM mods

[thedollardoctor]

Even different from what it was when your car was brand new and didn't have the notchy steering? Strange...

Completely! I can actually feel the road feedback in the steering wheel which I NEVER felt even when it was brand new. Overall steering is much better with new rack

[Patrick Bateman]

I just reached 2,000 miles on my S5 without the steering issue popping up. Build date 8/12. Some people reported it showing up only after 3,000 or even 5,000 miles, so I'm not celebrating yet... Also, not sure that we can say that the new rack model that Audi has now fixes the problem until people get a chance to put some miles on these new racks...

The knotch in my 13's steering just started recently...Just turned 7k. Goes in this thursday for a tech ride along BEFORE the diagnosis. Mine appears to be worse in the colder temps,but as cars fluids warm up, knotchy steering still exists.

PB.