Parts for your 2016 Audi Q5-Centre bearing

2016 Audi Q5 centre-bearing — what it does, when it wears, and how to sort it

Technical sources confirm the 2016 Audi Q5 (type 8R, quattro) uses a two-piece propeller shaft with an integrated, rubber-isolated centre support bearing. This configuration is shown in Audi’s erWin/Workshop Repair Manual for the Q5 (Propeller Shaft – with centre bearing), the VW/Audi ETKA parts catalogue for model 8R (propeller shaft assembly with carrier), and is reflected in major aftermarket catalogues from driveline suppliers that list a centre support bearing for 2009–2017 Q5 models.

On the Q5, the centre-bearing supports the prop shaft mid-span, keeping it running true between the gearbox and rear diff. It tames vibration, handles changes in driveline angle as the suspension moves, and helps the car feel smooth on take-off and at motorway speeds. Over time, heat, road grime, and Aussie/Kiwi roads can harden or tear the rubber mount, and the bearing can get noisy.

Typical signs it’s tired include:

• Driveline shudder under load or on take-off
• Humming or droning that tracks road speed (often 40–80 km/h)
• A clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, or a thump over bumps
• Visible sagging or a split rubber carrier around the bearing

There’s no fixed service interval, but it’s smart to inspect the centre-bearing at major services or every 30,000–60,000 km, especially if the Q5 tows, sees corrugations, or lives by the coast. The bearing itself is sealed and not greaseable. From the factory, Audi supplies the prop shaft as an assembly, however, quality aftermarket kits allow replacement of just the centre support bearing and carrier. If replacing, mark the flanges for alignment before removal, support the shaft properly, renew single-use bolts where specified, and keep the prop shaft phasing/orientation the same to avoid new vibrations. After refit, a short road test across different speeds helps confirm it’s all sweet.

Left too long, a failing centre-bearing can chew out tyres with vibration, stress the transmission mount, and make the Q5 feel rough. Sorting it early keeps the cabin quiet and the driveline happy for the long haul.

Popular questions about the 2016 Audi Q5 centre-bearing

Does the 2016 Q5 actually have a centre-bearing?
Yes. The 8R-series Q5 with quattro uses a two-piece prop shaft supported by a centre-bearing. This is detailed in Audi’s repair procedures for the propeller shaft and shown in the factory parts catalogue illustrations.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or is a whole shaft needed?
From Audi, the prop shaft is supplied as a complete unit. In practice, reputable aftermarket kits let a technician press off the old carrier and fit a new bearing/carrier. Correct alignment, bracket orientation, and bolt torque are critical to prevent vibrations.

What causes centre-bearing failure on a Q5?
Age, heat from the exhaust, road contamination, and repeated driveline loadings (towing or stop–start traffic) degrade the rubber isolator. Once the rubber sags or splits, the bearing runs off-centre, which creates shudder and noise and accelerates wear.