Parts for your 2017 Audi Q5-Centre bearing

2017 Audi Q5 centre-bearing: what it does and when to service it

Based on technical sources, a centre-bearing is fitted to the 2017 Audi Q5 (8R) with quattro all-wheel drive. Audi’s workshop system (ElsaWin) for Q5 8R includes procedures for the two-piece propeller shaft and its rubber-mounted centre support bearing, Audi Self-Study Programme 401 “The Audi Q5” describes the divided cardan shaft supported mid-span, and the genuine parts catalogue (ETKA) lists the propeller shaft assembly for Q5 (8R0-series) with an integrated centre support bearing. So yes—this model uses a centre-bearing.

The centre-bearing on a 2017 Audi Q5 sits mid-way along the two-piece propeller shaft, supporting the shaft and keeping it running true from the transmission to the rear diff. Its rubber isolator and bearing housing tame vibration and driveline shudder, helping the Q5 feel smooth on the open road and around town. Over time, heat, age, oil contamination or rough roads can crack the rubber or wear the bearing, which shows up as a dull thump on take-off, a humming or droning that rises with road speed, or a vibration under load that feels like out-of-balance tyres but isn’t.

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual check under the vehicle goes a long way. Look for torn rubber around the carrier, sagging support, or shiny contact marks from the shaft moving off-centre. If the bearing’s on the way out, it’s best not to leave it—excess movement can stress the CVs and the rear diff mount, and the vibration can be pretty unpleasant on longer drives.

Replacement on the Q5 typically involves removing the complete prop shaft, marking flanges for alignment, splitting the shaft at the slip joint, and either fitting an OEM-style complete assembly or, where appropriate, pressing on a quality centre support kit. Audi generally supplies the shaft as an assembly, but reputable aftermarket options allow the support to be renewed separately. Re-torque the centre support bracket and flange bolts to spec, keep the shaft in phase, and use new hardware where required. After refit, a road test for any residual vibration is a must.

There’s no fixed replacement interval—condition-based servicing works best. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, many see 120–200,000 km before attention is needed, but vehicles doing lots of towing or gravel kilometres may need it sooner. If in doubt, a driveline specialist can confirm with the Q5 on a hoist.

• Common signs: take-off clunk, speed-related drone, mid-cabin vibration.
• Avoid harsh degreasers on the rubber mount during underbody washes.
• Address engine/gearbox mount issues early—they can shorten centre-bearing life.

Popular questions about 2017 Audi Q5 centre-bearing

How do you tell if the centre-bearing is failing on a 2017 Q5?
Tell-tales include a thud on initial acceleration, a humming that changes with speed, and a vibration through the seat or floor under load. A quick underbody inspection may show a cracked or sagging rubber carrier. A workshop can confirm by checking driveline play with the shaft unloaded.

Do you have to replace the whole driveshaft, or can you just do the bearing?
Audi’s OE path is usually a complete prop shaft assembly. However, quality aftermarket centre support kits exist for the Q5 8R and can be fitted by a driveline specialist, provided the shaft is kept in phase and balanced. If the universal joints or CVs are also worn, a full shaft replacement can be the better bet.

Is it safe to keep driving with a noisy centre-bearing?
Short, gentle trips may be possible, but it’s not ideal. A failing support can worsen quickly, creating harsh vibration and risking collateral wear to other driveline components. It’s best to book it in promptly to avoid bigger bills and a rough ride.