Parts for your 2011 Audi Q5-Exhaust mount

2011 Audi Q5 Exhaust Mount

Yes, the 2011 Audi Q5 uses exhaust mounts (also called rubber hangers). This isn’t optional kit — it’s part of the factory exhaust system. Audi’s ElsaWin workshop manual for the Q5 (Type 8R, MY2011) shows multiple rubber mountings supporting the front/centre pipes and rear silencer in the Exhaust System—Assembly Overview. The VW Group ETKA parts catalogue for the 8R platform also lists “rubber mounting” and associated brackets for the Q5 range, with genuine part numbers such as 8R0 253 147 variants, among others. These technical sources confirm the exhaust mounts are fitted as standard on the 2011 Q5.

On the Q5, the exhaust mounts isolate vibration, keep the system aligned, and stop the muffler and pipework from knocking the body or drivetrain. They take the weight of the rear silencer and centre sections, protect the flex joint and catalytic converter from undue stress, and keep the tailpipes sitting neatly in the bumper cut-outs. In short, they’re small bits of rubber doing a big job for comfort and longevity.

As part of regular servicing in Aussie and Kiwi conditions, it’s smart to give the mounts a look every 15,000–20,000 km or at each service. The rubber can harden, crack, or stretch with age, heat, and road grime. If the vehicle tows, sees corrugations, or does short trips, the mounts tend to age faster. Look for sagging, perished rubber, torn holes, or oil-soaked hangers, and check the steel brackets and studs for corrosion.

Replacement is straightforward with the right approach. Support the exhaust so there’s no strain on joints, then swap the mounts one at a time. A spritz of silicone spray helps slide them off the pegs. Use quality OEM or equivalent mounts with the correct durometer — cheap universal pieces often allow too much movement or transmit harshness. Refit any brackets and torque fasteners to the value in the Audi service manual. Once fitted, confirm clearances around heat shields and the rear valance, then road test for rattles or knocks.

• Tell-tale signs it’s time: rear muffler sitting low, rattles over bumps, dull thuds on start-up/shut-down, or visible splits in the rubber.
• Best practice: replace mounts in pairs on the same section to keep alignment even, and renew any rusty hardware while you’re there.

Popular questions about 2011 Audi Q5 exhaust mounts

How many exhaust mounts does a 2011 Audi Q5 have?
The Q5 typically uses several rubber mounts spread across the centre section and rear silencer — commonly three to five depending on engine and exhaust layout. Exact count varies with model (TFSI vs TDI) and whether it’s single or dual-outlet. A quick underbody inspection or checking the Audi parts catalogue for your VIN will confirm.

What are the symptoms of a worn or failed exhaust mount?
Common signs include a drooping tailpipe, knocks or rattles over bumps, a muffler that shifts by hand more than it should, or the exhaust tapping heat shields. You might also notice more cabin vibration at idle. If left too long, extra stress can crack joints or fatigue brackets.

Can the Q5 be driven with a broken exhaust mount?
It’ll usually still drive, but it’s not ideal. With a broken mount the exhaust can swing, hit the body, stress the flex joint, or damage sensors and brackets. If a mount has failed, it’s best to sort it promptly to avoid bigger repair bills.