Parts for your 2015 Audi Q5-Struts

2015 Audi Q5 struts — are they actually used on this model?

Short answer: no, not in the strict technical sense. According to Audi’s own technical literature — Audi Self‑Study Programme 404 “The Audi Q5” (covering the 8R platform) and the Audi Repair Manual, Suspension/Wheels/Steering for Q5 2009–2017 (erWin/ELSA) — the Q5 runs a five‑link front axle and a trapezoidal‑link rear axle. In this layout, multiple control arms precisely locate the wheel. The damper and coil spring work as a coilover assembly, but they don’t act as a structural member that locates the hub like a MacPherson strut would. Parts catalogues (e.g., ETKA for Q5 8R front axle, group 40) list shock absorbers and top mounts rather than true strut cartridges or housings.

Why Audi didn’t use struts here comes down to dynamics and packaging. A five‑link front axle gives the Q5 better camber control through travel, sharper steering feel, and improved ride/tyre contact on bumpy Kiwi and Aussie roads. It also helps with NVH isolation and frees up space around the quattro drivetrain. Because the links do the locating, the damper isn’t loaded sideways like a MacPherson strut, which can mean better long‑term bushing life and more consistent geometry under load.

If someone’s searching for “Q5 struts”, what they usually need are front shock absorber assemblies (with springs, mounts, and bearings) or rear shocks. That’s the correct service approach for this model year.

What to service on a 2015 Q5 instead of “struts”:

• Front shock absorbers, coil springs, upper mounts and bearings, bump stops, and dust boots.
• Rear shock absorbers and separate rear springs (on steel‑spring cars), check for adaptive damping if fitted.
• Control arm bushes and ball joints (upper and lower links) — these are the heart of the five‑link setup.

Typical symptoms that it’s time to act include oily shocks, knocking over sharp bumps, floaty handling, uneven or cupped tyres, and steering shimmy. On well‑used roads, many owners look at shocks and top mounts somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if it tows or sees rough gravel. Replace dampers in axle pairs, and use new stretch bolts and nuts as specified.

Important workshop notes: a wheel alignment is recommended after front suspension work, especially if control arm bolts or the knuckle pinch bolt were disturbed. Torque rubber‑bushed arms at normal ride height to avoid pre‑loading the bushes. On cars with Audi drive select and damping control, disconnect and reconnect the electrical connectors with care and follow scan‑tool procedures if required. A quality spring compressor and the correct support tools are a must for safe assembly.

Technical sources referenced: Audi Self‑Study Programme 404 “The Audi Q5” (8R platform), Audi Repair Manual — Suspension, Wheels, Steering — Q5 2009–2017 (erWin/ELSA), Audi ETKA Parts Catalogue for Q5 8R front and rear axle listings.

Popular questions

Does a 2015 Audi Q5 have front struts or shocks?
Technically, it has front shock absorbers with coil springs in a five‑link setup, not MacPherson struts. Some aftermarket listings call them “struts”, but Audi’s design uses control arms to locate the wheel, with the damper handling vertical motion only.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing Q5 front shocks?
Yes, it’s recommended. Accessing the shocks usually means loosening control arm or knuckle fasteners, which can nudge alignment. Settle the suspension at ride height and then align to keep tyre wear and steering feel on point.

When should Q5 shocks and top mounts be replaced?
Many owners consider inspection or replacement between 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if there’s towing, corrugations, or city pothole punishment. Look for leaks, bounce, knocking, or cupped tyres, and always replace shocks in pairs.