Parts for your 2013 Audi Q5-Centre bearing

2013 Audi Q5 centre-bearing: fitment, purpose and service advice

Based on technical sources, the 2013 Audi Q5 (type 8R, quattro) does use a centre-bearing on its propeller shaft. The Audi factory workshop manual (erWin, Rep. Gr. 39/52) describes a two-piece prop shaft supported by a centre support bearing and bracket, and Audi’s ETKA parts catalogue shows the centre-bearing/mount in the propeller shaft assembly for 8R Q5 models. Major aftermarket catalogues for the 2009–2017 Q5 also list a dedicated driveshaft centre support bearing. So, the centre-bearing is relevant and fitted on this vehicle.

On the 2013 Q5, the centre-bearing supports the two-piece prop shaft running from the transmission to the rear differential. Its job is to hold the shaft on-centre, control movement under load, and isolate noise and vibration so the cabin stays quiet. The rubber-mounted support allows a bit of flex as the suspension and driveline move, while keeping the shaft correctly aligned to prevent premature wear of CV joints and flanges.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to have it inspected during routine servicing. Tell-tales of a tired centre-bearing include a low rumble or droning that changes with road speed, a thump on take-off, and vibration around 60–90 km/h that eases off when coasting. Torn rubber, excessive play in the support, or rusty/dry bearing noise are all red flags.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech but does require the prop shaft to come out. Heat shields and undertrays are removed, flanges are marked for phasing, and the shaft is supported so the CVs aren’t stressed. The bearing is pressed on, and while Audi often supplies the shaft as a complete assembly, quality aftermarket kits allow the support bearing and mount to be renewed on their own. During the job, it’s good practice to:

• Check the front and rear prop shaft CV joints and boots for wear or leaks.
• Inspect the flex discs/guibos and replace if cracked.
• Align and pre-load the centre-bearing mount per spec to avoid introducing vibrations.
• Use new hardware and torque to Audi specs, then road test for NVH.

Look after the centre-bearing and the Q5’s driveline stays smooth, quiet and reliable—ideal for long Kiwi or Aussie road trips.

Popular questions about 2013 Audi Q5 centre-bearing

What are the signs of a worn centre-bearing on a 2013 Audi Q5?
Common signs are a humming/rumbling that tracks with vehicle speed, a shudder or thump on take-off, and vibration felt through the floor around mid-range speeds. Visual checks may show a torn rubber mount or excessive play when the shaft is moved by hand.

If the noise eases when coasting or worsens under load, that points more strongly to the centre-bearing rather than a wheel bearing. A technician can confirm by inspecting the support and isolating the driveline during a test.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or does the whole prop shaft need changing?
Audi commonly supplies the prop shaft as a complete unit, but reputable aftermarket options allow the centre-bearing and mount to be replaced separately. Whether to repair or replace the full shaft depends on bearing condition, CV joint wear, and budget.

Where the CVs are tight and boots intact, a centre-bearing-only repair can be a cost-effective fix. If there’s play in the CVs or damage to multiple components, a complete shaft assembly may be the better long-term call.

Is it safe to keep driving with a noisy centre-bearing?
Short-term, gentle driving may be possible, but it’s not advisable. As the bearing or mount degrades, vibration can increase and place extra stress on CV joints and flanges, risking further damage.

Book an inspection sooner rather than later. Catching it early usually keeps the repair simple and avoids turning a minor NVH issue into a bigger driveline bill.