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Audi Q5 /Q7: How to Tow with the Q Series

The Audi Q5 or Q7 has the highest towing capacity in its class. If you're interested in adding this valuable component to your vehicle, read on to learn all about it.

By Jeffrey Bausch - March 31, 2016

This article applies to the Audi Q5 and Q7 (2005-Present).

Did you know the Q5 can tow 4,400 lbs?

That’s considered to be the highest towing capacity in its class. A tow is a great accessory to have on your Q5 or Q7 SUV—the actual task of installing it can be a bit difficult, though. To learn the in’s and out’s of how to add a hitch/tow to your car, read on.

Figure 1. Ready to go.
Audi Q5/Q7: How to Tow with the Q Series

Materials Needed

  • Tow/hitch package
  • Screwdriver
  • Wrench set
  • Car lift

Step 1 – Gain access to car body

Lift car, and remove center door section below back bumper by turning tabs 90 degrees.

Figure 2. Prep the area for the tow component.

Next, remove four T20 screws: two next to the door section.

  • Figure 3. One of the four screws that need to be removed.
  • Figure 4. Be sure to put the screws in a safe spot together.

Two within both wheel wells (one in each).

Figure 5. It may benefit you to turn the wheel all the way out for more room.

Remove snap tab that hold the bracing in place (both sides). As you pull back faceplate, remove each of the back-up sensors by pushing in on the locking tab, and pulling outward. Pull the faceplate off.

Figure 6. You're almost there.

Step 2 – Remove components to allow for tow add-on

Now put into place a brace belt to support the exhaust system during the next few steps, when it will be loosened and jostled a bit.

Figure 7. Secure the exhaust in place.

Remove the bolts that secure the exhaust system to the vehicle’s frame, on both sides of the back of the car.

Figure 8. Spray a bit of WD-40 if the bolts seem stuck.

Once the bolts are removed, and the exhaust system is being held securely in place by the brace belt, cut out two of the front-most plugs.

  • Figure 9. Here and the spot across from it are your targets.
  • Figure 10. Take your time making your cut.

Install half-inch carriage bolt and holder block into both holes; when in place, add silicon sealant around the holes.

Figure 11. Let the sealant have 15 to 30 minutes to fully set.

Install U-bolt into backframe of vehicle.

Figure 12. Make sure the U-bolt is as secure and flush with the brace as much as possible.

Then, tie fishing line to one end to ensure the bolt does not fall into space.

Figure 13. Looking good so far.

Step 3 – Install the tow hitch

Raise the hitch up into place, and secure it onto the U-bolt hooks.

Figure 14. Almost there.

Secure the hitch with two half-inch flange nuts underneath the belly of the vehicle.

Figure 15. The nuts should be flush with the hitch.

Secure hitch with two half-inch flange nuts to each of the supporting arms of the U-bolt on the backside of the vehicle.

Figure 16. Make your last adjustments to the hitch.

Once all flange nuts have secured the tow to the vehicle, replace the nuts that hold the exhaust system in place.

Figure 17. Congratulations, you've just added more versatility to your Audi Q series.

Step 4 – Close it all up

Do a final tightening of all the bolts to fully secure all components. When complete, remove the brace belt from the exhaust system. Now replace the rear face shield, along with the back-up sensors, and snap back into place. Secure all previously removed screw and finish off by replacing the rear face plate.

Lower the car down to the ground and test the tow to ensure secure application.

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