Parts for your 2014 Audi Q5-Centre bearing

2014 Audi Q5 centre-bearing: what it is, where it fits, and how to look after it

For the 2014 Audi Q5 (8R) with quattro all-wheel drive, a centre-bearing is used. Factory service information and parts catalogues for the 8R-series Q5 depict a two-piece propeller shaft supported mid-length by a centre support bearing (often supplied by Audi as part of the complete propshaft assembly rather than as a separate OE bearing). This layout is also mirrored across reputable aftermarket catalogues that list centre support bearings and carriers for the 2009–2017 Q5 range.

The centre-bearing’s job is straightforward but crucial: it supports the two-piece prop shaft, keeps it aligned under load, and helps control vibration as torque heads from the transmission to the rear diff. On the 2014 Q5, it sits in a rubber carrier bracket bolted to the body tunnel. When that rubber perishes or the bearing roughens up, driveline smoothness goes out the window and the rest of the drivetrain cops extra stress.

It’s not a scheduled “replace at X km” service item, but it is smart to inspect it during routine underbody checks, especially from 60,000–90,000 km onwards or if the vehicle tows, sees corrugated roads, or has oil leaks nearby. A quick look for a sagging carrier, cracked rubber, shiny contact marks, or any play in the prop shaft at the support is worthwhile. A road test helps too.

• Common symptoms of wear: a dull thump on take-off, shudder under load, a humming/whirring at 40–80 km/h, or a drivetrain vibration that eases off-throttle. A clunk when shifting between D and R can also show up.
• Contributing factors: tired engine/gearbox mounts, worn propshaft CV joints, fluid contamination, or impact damage.

Replacement approach depends on parts choice. Audi typically supplies the complete prop shaft with the centre support integrated, which preserves factory balance and phasing. Many workshops prefer this path for longevity and fewer comebacks. Quality aftermarket centre-bearing kits exist, but correct installation is critical: mark the shaft halves for phasing, support the shaft to avoid stressing the CVs, set the bearing mount square and at the correct height, and use the proper torque values and new hardware where specified. After refit, a road test for vibration and a recheck of fastener torque once heat-cycled is good practice.

Preventative tips are simple: keep drivetrain mounts healthy, fix transmission tailshaft or diff seal leaks promptly so rubber doesn’t soften, and avoid blasting the bearing area with high-pressure washers. If a vibration appears, don’t leave it—unchecked, it can snowball into CV joint or diff wear, turning a modest repair into a bigger bill.

• Does a 2014 Audi Q5 have a centre-bearing?
  Yes. The 2014 Q5 (8R) with quattro uses a two-piece prop shaft supported by a centre-bearing. In OE form, the bearing is typically part of the complete propshaft assembly.
• What are the signs the centre-bearing is failing on a 2014 Q5?
  Expect vibration at road speeds, a thump on take-off, shudder under load, or a humming/whirring noise through the floor. A visual check may show cracked rubber or a sagging support.
• Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or is a full prop shaft needed?
  Audi usually supplies the propshaft as a complete unit. Aftermarket bearings and carriers are available, if using them, correct phasing, alignment, and torque procedures are essential. High‑km shafts with CV play are often best replaced as an assembly.