Buzz, squeek from center tail light

[Jeff]

About two weeks ago I took my 2009 R8 in because of a buzzing noise that I thought was coming from the air conditioning fan. The technicians at the dealer determined that it was coming from the top center tail light and ordered a replacement. With that fix, the buzz was definitely gone.

Drove the car home and noticed a bad squeek instead, especially over bumpy side streets. Took the car back yesterday and learned that there is now a new replacement tail lamp to replace the previous replacement. Thankfully the new lamp was sent overnight and will be installed today.

Anyone else had this happen?

[Garyhun]

Not heard of your second issue but the first one is a common fault. Infact my rear brake light unit is being replaced under warranty next week for the very same reason.

[R84ME]

Jeff, yes! I have 5000 miles and think I'm hearing the second squeak you describe. I can almost say it's on the upward body motion over bumps at speed (but perhaps that's a downward, increased G motion on the light?). Hard to describe but definitely over my right shoulder.

I thought it might be a suspension bushing or something but think the brake light issue is more likely. I was going to try to condition the rubber piece that seals the engine cover & back glass.

Let me know if the new light assembly resolves it!

[Jeff]

Issue resolved with a new brake light.

TSB #2016737/5 in case you want to bring this up at your dealer.

[harrison]

I had my "THIRD" brake lite replaced recently Not because of noise.It was loose on right side. It's loose again! Back to the dealer.With my list of minor issues.

[opie]

Strange.... My brake light is being replaced this week for the same issue!
Great minds think (or drive) alike I guess

[harrison]

Say hello to Otis for me ! (if he is still alive!)Aunt Bea too!(if she's still alive).Take care Opie !!

[esor8]

I also just noticed the center brake light squeak. When I wash the car, can reproduce the noise. What is actually causing the squeak?

Jeff
R8 5.2 all black

[KfabR8]

I had lunch with the tech that changed out your light this afternoon. He was telling me about the bulletin from Audi on it and wanted to know if mine had squeaked at all yet.

Did it sound like it was coming from right behind the seats, near the CD player?

[Digicrack]

I am having mine replaced too, not because of the squeak but because it spontaneously broke.

The right hand 2" of the red plastic lense cover just snapped. The plastic is only being held in place by the gasket on the back side of it. I happened to notice it the other day and the dealer ordered the new part.

Something is obviously wrong with the original design.