The Problem My 2022 Audi A4 allroad began developing a shudder, skipping and binding sensation between approximately 40,000–50,000 miles when accelerating from a stop with the wheels turned. The condition became progressively more pronounced. It could be felt through the steering wheel and chassis and was noticeable to passengers. I reported the problem to Audi dealer service personnel, but it was not properly diagnosed. I performed extensive research and found Audi TSB 2059057/15, which addresses this condition on vehicles equipped with quattro ultra AWD. Audi’s prescribed repair includes servicing the AWD coupling, flushing abrasion particles from it and resetting learned values used to control the coupling. On October 2, 2026, at approximately 81,074 miles, Audi Lenox performed the TSB repair. The problem resolved afterward. Why this is a safety concern The shudder and binding occur while accelerating through a turn from a stop, such as when entering traffic, turning through an intersection or pulling onto a roadway. The unexpected driveline behavior makes the vehicle’s response less predictable when acceleration and directional control are important. I experienced difficulty particularly when operating on wet, snowy, icy, gravel or other low-traction surfaces, where predictable AWD operation is important for traction and vehicle control. Why I am reporting it Audi has revised TSB 2059057 repeatedly over several years and applies it across multiple Audi models and model years. I am asking NHTSA to investigate the frequency, root cause and potential safety implications of this quattro ultra condition. I have personally experienced how scary and unpredictable the issues with quattro ultra can be--and it is a critical safety hazard for drivers whose vehicles exhibit the issue
- NHTSA ID
- 11771116
- Incident
- Oct 2, 2026