dbrowne1

I just did the 35K mile service on my 2011 Q5 2.0T, and I can see that the "snow screen" pre-filter just inside the front grill toward the passenger side is dirty. It's the same pre-filter used in the B8 A4, which is supposed to be cleaned regularly, though the maintenance chart does not indicate that it's supposed to be cleaned on the Q5.

It's pretty easy to access on the B8 A4, but looks like more of a chore to do it on the Q5. Anyone clean theirs, and if so how did you get to it?

russ0054

You have to remove the plastic shroud that covers the radiator to get at the intake snorkel. There are 6 (I think) plastic fasteners which, if not removed carefully, will drop down into the bowels of the engine compartment never to be seen again. Push down on the center of the fastener (the round post in the center)until it clicks and then pull the whole assembly out. Once the cover is removed you will able to access the intake snorkel (two screws)and clean the screen. I use a garden hose to blow the dirt out from the inside.

PS Don't panic if you loose a couple of the fasteners. The dealer carries them and they aren't that expensive.

spijun

Perhaps this will assist

dbrowne1

Thank you both - those fasteners are what got me. I've owned a half dozen VW/Audi vehicles ranging from 1985 to 2012 and never ran into those before, so I had no idea how to remove them.

spijun

Video how to remove fasteners:
http://www.carcarekiosk.com/video/20...ylight_running

Otto Man

Thanks again spijun