Steering Wheel Groan
 

I was with a co-worker in his A6 today and there was an electric motor groan (only way I can think to explain it) coming from the steering wheel when he turns the wheel. Anyone else have this issue?

Just trying to see if there is anything out there before he gets a chance to call and take it to the dealer. Also concerned I might end up with the same issue on my car...

I had this issue on my 2010 (C6) A6 Prestige. It only happened when the AC compressor was running. The dealer told me it was "normal". I agree that it is annoying, but I got over it.
And for whatever reason I have not had this issue on my 2013 C7.

This wouldn't be the same. With the electronic steering you wouldn't have that same type of issue. This is right at where the steering wheel connects to the steering column. Definately the motor making noise.

There is no motor where the steering wheel connects to the column.

Sounds like it when it makes the groaning noise. Maybe its not a motor, but there is something there and that is what is making the electrical groan.

Does it sound like this?

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/sho....php?t=2846842

There has been no solution posted but at least you know that you are not alone if it does.

Yes that is it. It doesn't sound like anything rubbing together as proposed by the one post.

Could it be the electric steering rack? It's centered in the engine bay right at the firewall and you might be able to locate the source for the sound better from the passenger side or even outside or from under the car.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.aud...a3fb1b5b05.jpg
Coming in late here as more of an update. The steering groan being described is a rubber collar in the intermediate steering shaft (see below). As it wears over the years, it starts to rub causing the noise. (Most noticeable in warmer weather). Most dealers will not try too lube it as the noise always comes back after a short period of time. The groan noise got so bothersome for me this summer I had the dealer replace the intermediate steering shaft. Since I'm way out of warranty, but had reported the issue previously, the service mgr split the cost of part and labor which I felt was fair ($240). The groan is now gone. At least for two or three years.

+1 re: snagit's post above. I did a trip to FL last February and had the noise he mentions and Audi dealer in FL confirmed was exactly what snagit indicates. My dealer here in MI lubed it but did say it is likely to come back. So far so good but since my warranty is over in middle of July I'm hoping it comes back before then and if not will have a chat with the service advisor/manager to see if Audi will replace the part proactively. I was surprised that the noise was present when I was in FL but by time got back to frigid MI could not replicate it. Totally consistent with snagit's experience.

Best,
Jeff