Parts for your 2013 Audi Q5-Exhaust mount

2013 Audi Q5 exhaust mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2013 Audi Q5 (Typ 8R) uses exhaust mounts. Audi’s factory repair information (ElsaPro/ErWin) shows multiple rubber exhaust hangers/mounts supporting the front pipe, centre section and rear mufflers on this model. Audi’s ETKA parts catalogue (group 253 – Exhaust system) also lists the rubber mounting insulators and brackets specific to the 8R Q5 range, including TFSI, TDI and SQ5 variants. So an exhaust mount is absolutely relevant on a 2013 Audi Q5.

The exhaust mounts are those tough rubber insulators that hold the exhaust in place while isolating vibration. On a Q5, they keep the system aligned under the car, let it move a touch as the engine rocks, and stop rattles making their way into the cabin. Because they live near heat, road grime and the odd off‑road splash, they eventually harden, crack or stretch.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the exhaust mounts any time the Q5 is on a hoist. Look for perished rubber, tears, elongation of the holes, separated bonding, or shiny witness marks where the exhaust has been touching heat shields or the rear valance. Common symptoms include a thud over bumps, tinny rattles at idle, the tailpipe sitting off‑centre, or extra vibration through the seats.

Replacement is straightforward and usually inexpensive. Support the exhaust with a stand, replace one mount at a time, and use a silicone spray or rubber grease to slide the old ones off and the new ones on. If a bracket is corroded or bent, replace it as well. Refit any bracket fasteners to the correct torque as per the Audi service manual. It’s best to use quality OEM‑equivalent rubber mounts, cheap copies can sag quickly and bring the rattle back.

There’s no fixed kilometre interval—condition is king—but many Q5s need one or two mounts by the 7–10 year mark, sooner if they see rough roads or towing. After fitting, check tailpipe alignment in the bumper cut‑out, confirm adequate clearance to shields and suspension, and ensure the system is free to move a little by hand without clunks. For SQ5 models with sport exhausts, there may be additional mounts, inspect and replace them as a set to keep everything level.

• Tip: if one mount has failed, the others won’t be far behind—doing them together can save a second visit.
• Avoid petroleum-based sprays on the rubber, they can accelerate deterioration.

Popular questions about 2013 Audi Q5 exhaust mounts

How do you know the exhaust mounts need replacing on a 2013 Q5?
Tell‑tales include a sagging or off‑centre tailpipe, clunks over bumps, buzzing at idle, and visible cracking or tearing of the rubber hangers. With the car safely raised, a quick lever test of the exhaust will often reveal excessive movement or contact with shields.

Can you drive with a broken exhaust mount?
It’ll usually still drive, but it’s not ideal. A hanging system can stress other mounts, crack welds, or melt nearby plastics if it shifts. If a mount has let go, drive gently and get it sorted promptly to avoid a larger repair.

How many exhaust mounts does a 2013 Q5 have?
It varies by engine and trim. Most 2013 Q5 models have several rubber mounts from the front pipe to the rear mufflers, while SQ5 variants can have additional hangers. A parts lookup against the VIN or a quick underbody check will confirm the exact count.