Parts for your 2013 Audi Q5-Wheel hubs

2013 Audi Q5 wheel hubs — purpose, care, and when to replace

Technical sources including Audi’s factory workshop manual (ElsaWin), the Audi ETKA/Partslink24 parts catalogue, and OEM bearing catalogues from brands like SKF and Schaeffler (FAG) list front and rear wheel-hub and bearing assemblies for the 2013 Audi Q5 (Type 8R). That means wheel hubs are absolutely fitted to this model and are a key service item over the vehicle’s life.

On a 2013 Audi Q5, the wheel hub is the solid mount the wheel bolts to, and it houses the sealed bearing that lets the wheel spin smoothly. It also carries the brake disc and, on Quattro models, transfers drive from the CV joint to the wheel. The ABS wheel speed sensor reads from a magnetic encoder integrated into the hub/bearing unit, so a failing hub can throw up ABS and stability control warnings too.

These hubs are sealed and maintenance-free, so there’s no greasing or adjustment. What matters is regular inspection during servicing. A quick spin-check for roughness, listening for a humming or growling noise that rises with road speed, and checking for play by rocking the tyre at 12 and 6 o’clock are the go-to tests. Any corrosion on the hub face should be cleaned to keep brake discs running true and to prevent wheel wobble.

When a hub needs replacing, quality parts and correct torque are essential. The Q5 typically uses a bolt-in hub/bearing unit, the axle bolt and hub bolts are single-use and should be renewed. The final axle-bolt torque is set with the vehicle on the ground to avoid preloading the bearing. If the steering knuckle isn’t disturbed, an alignment usually isn’t required, but it’s smart to check if arms or bolts have been loosened. Keep the ABS sensor clean and seated, damage or debris can trigger warning lights.

Owners will notice that replacing just the noisy side is fine, there’s no rule to do both, though many choose to if kilometres are high. Sticking with reputable OEM-equivalent hubs helps avoid early repeat work. After installation, torque the wheel nuts correctly, avoid blasting the hub area with a pressure washer, and recheck for any noise after a short drive.

• Common signs: speed-related humming, ABS light, vibration, or wheel play
• Service tip: always replace the axle bolt and hub bolts, and follow Audi torque specs

Popular questions

How long do wheel hubs last on a 2013 Audi Q5?

With normal driving, many Q5 hubs last well past 120,000–160,000 km. Rough roads, heavier wheels, or frequent water exposure can shorten life. If there’s noise, play, or ABS faults traced to the hub, replacement is due rather than waiting for a complete failure.

Do I need an alignment after replacing a wheel hub?

Usually, no—if the steering knuckle and suspension arms aren’t loosened. If the job involves moving control arms or the knuckle, or the vehicle already shows uneven tyre wear or pulling, booking an alignment is a good safeguard.

Can a home mechanic replace a Q5 hub?

Yes, with the right tools. Expect to remove the brake assembly, wheel speed sensor, and axle bolt, then unbolt the hub from the knuckle. A torque wrench and new one-time-use bolts are a must. If the hub is seized to the knuckle, extra pullers or heat may be needed.