Parts for your 2013 Audi Q5-Cv joint

2013 Audi Q5 CV Joint — what it does and how to look after it

Based on technical references — Audi’s erWin/ELSA workshop information for the 8R Q5 (Front/Rear Drive Shafts – Constant Velocity Joints), the Audi ETKA parts catalogue (Groups 4 and 5 listing complete drive shafts with inner and outer CV joints), and GKN/Löbro fitment catalogues supplying OEM-spec joint kits for the Q5 — the 2013 Audi Q5 absolutely uses CV joints. They’re fitted to the front and rear drive shafts on quattro models, and many variants also use CV-style joints at the prop shaft flanges.

On the Q5, CV joints let the drivetrain deliver smooth torque while the wheels steer and the suspension moves. The outer joints manage big steering angles up front, the inner “plunge” joints take up length changes as the suspension travels. That’s why they’re vital to quattro grip and the Q5’s refined ride — no binding, no shudder, just clean power delivery.

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual check goes a long way. Look over the rubber boots for splits, perishing, or grease flung around the inner wheel or underbody. If a boot is damaged but the joint’s quiet and free of play, a boot-only repair with fresh grease is usually fine. If there’s a rhythmic clicking on full lock, a knock when taking off, vibration under load, or obvious play, the joint (or full shaft) is due.

• Service tip: Inspect CV boots every service or ~10,000–15,000 km, and after any off-road or coastal driving.
• Early action: Replace a torn boot immediately to avoid grit ingress and joint pitting.
• Replacement quality: Use OEM or GKN/Löbro kits, new clamps, correct CV grease, and single-use axle fasteners.
• Fitment: Clean mating faces, set ride height before final torques, and follow factory torque specs. A short road test to verify no noise or vibration is a must.

Owners seeing high kilometres, regular towing, or plenty of stop–start city work might plan ahead. A proactive boot refresh or joint replacement can save a driveshaft and keep the Q5 feeling tight and quiet. Properly sealed and lubricated, a CV joint often runs 150,000 km or more, especially in Aussie and Kiwi conditions where regular inspections are the difference between a simple boot job and a full shaft swap.

Popular questions about 2013 Audi Q5 CV joints

Does the 2013 Audi Q5 have CV joints at both ends?
The 2013 Q5 (8R) uses CV joints on the front and rear drive shafts on quattro models — outer fixed joints and inner plunge joints. Many variants also use CV-type joints on the prop shaft flanges, so yes, both ends of the car rely on CV technology.

How long do CV joints last on a Q5?
With intact boots and the right grease, they commonly see 150,000+ km. Coastal exposure, dirt roads, or torn boots shorten that. If clicking on full lock or vibration on acceleration shows up, it’s time for closer inspection.

Can the boot be replaced without doing the whole shaft?
Absolutely. If the joint is quiet with no play or rust-stained grease, a new boot and fresh grease is a cost‑effective fix. If there’s pitting, blueing, or noise, replace the joint — and if wear is extensive or mileage high, a complete shaft can be the smarter long-term choice.