Audi Q5: Suspension Noises Diagnostic Guide
Suspension noise is an indication that something is wrong with your Audi Q5. Worn suspension parts can damage each other if not replaced soon, and the noises as well as handling are only going to get worse.
This article applies to the Audi Q5 (2009-2016).
The suspension system is one of the hardest working parts in the Audi Q5, providing that precision German handling you expect with the luxury car ride you demand. Most suspension issues start to reveal themselves with noises that can point you to the problem, from mild squeaking to scary clunks. This guide will go over the common Audi suspension issues, along with the noises that are usually accompanied by them. Read on to learn how to diagnose the suspension system in your Audi Q5, before you take it to the dealer or a shop and waste your money.
Material Needed
- Flashlight
Step 1 – Check the shocks
They could be blown.
Blown shocks are a common suspension problem, and it can come with a rattling, squeaking, or clanking noise. This usually happens when you drive over a rough surface, but if they are bad enough, you will hear the noise on just about any bump. Blown shocks can also cause a floaty, out of control feeling on the freeway at higher speeds. Typically blown shocks will be confirmed by an oil leak on the shock absorber itself, or you can go to the corner where the noise is coming from, then push the car down, and if it bounces back up and stays there, then your shock is good. If the car bounces up and down a few times, then you need to replace your shock.
If the shocks are in good shape, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2 – Check front brakes
The brake pad clips or rotors can be faulty.
While not actually part of the suspension, the front brakes on some Audi Q5 models make noises that can be mistaken for a suspension issue. There are technical service bulletins on both of these issues, but your dealer may not know about them. The first issue affects early production Q5 models mostly, and is traced to a undersized front brake pad, or a bad pad retaining clip, which lets the pads move around too much. The noise will only be present when driving over bumps with your foot not on the brake pedal; apply the brakes and it goes away. On the sporty SQ5 model, there is an issue with the special, higher performance front brake rotors developing tiny cracks, which allow them to move around on their "hats," but replacing them should be quick and easy, as well as covered by the warranty.
If the brakes are in good working condition, proceed to Step 3.
Step 3 – Check rubber bushings
They could be cracked, worn, or loose.
The Audi Q5 uses a modified A-arm front suspension, with individual control arms instead of a single triangular A-arm. There is a bushing and a ball joint on each one, and the bushing can cause all sorts of noises when they start to go bad. Jack up the car, place it on jack stands, and take off the front wheels. Tug, push and pull on the steering knuckle/spindle to check for play in the bushings and ball joints. Inspect each control arm and check for cracks in the bushings on each one. The front sway bar is also attached with rubber bushings, which may go bad, that are quite cheap and easy to replace.
Figure 3. Typical Audi control arm front suspension. 
Figure 4. Check all rubber bushings.
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