Parts for your 2017 Audi Q5-Drive belt

2017 Audi Q5 Drive-Belt: What It Does and When To Change It

Based on Audi factory repair information (erWin/ELSA for the 2017 Q5, type 8R), the Audi parts catalogue (ETKA), and major belt manufacturers’ application guides (Gates and Dayco), the 2017 Audi Q5 does use an auxiliary drive-belt (serpentine/ribbed V-belt). Petrol variants run timing chains for the cams, but they still rely on a separate drive-belt for accessories. Diesel variants also use an accessory belt alongside their timing system. So yes, a drive-belt is relevant to this model year Q5.

On a 2017 Q5, the drive-belt’s day job is to spin the alternator to keep the battery charged and the electrics happy, and to turn the A/C compressor so the cabin stays cool. Depending on the specific engine and steering system fitted, it may also drive a power steering pump, later models with electric power steering still keep the belt for alternator and A/C duties.

As part of regular servicing, the drive-belt is a simple but important check. Workshop manuals call for inspection at routine service intervals, looking for cracking, glazing, fraying, or rubber that’s gone hard and noisy. Many techs in Australia and New Zealand treat the belt as consumable around 90,000–120,000 km or about 6 years, but replacement timing can vary with climate, accessory load, and driving habits. If it squeals on cold starts, leaves rubber dust, or shows any cord, it’s time to sort it.

When the belt is due, it’s smart to assess the automatic tensioner and any idler pulleys at the same time. A fresh belt on a tired tensioner won’t stay quiet for long. Quality OEM-equivalent belts are inexpensive insurance against roadside dramas, and routing should follow the under-bonnet diagram or workshop info exactly.

• Typical wear clues: cracking between ribs, frayed edges, shiny/glazed surfaces, or chirps/squeals.
• Practical tip: have it inspected at every service (about every 12 months or 15,000 km) and sooner if you hear noise or see wear.

A healthy drive-belt keeps charging strong and A/C performance crisp. For anyone planning a big trip or towing, replacing a borderline belt before you hit the road is a tidy bit of preventative maintenance.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Audi Q5 have a drive-belt or a timing belt?
The 2017 Q5 uses an auxiliary drive-belt for accessories such as the alternator and A/C compressor. Petrol engines in this model year use timing chains for camshaft drive, while diesels vary by engine code. Either way, the accessory drive-belt is still fitted and needs periodic inspection.

When should the drive-belt be replaced on a 2017 Q5?
It’s inspected at each service, with many workshops recommending replacement around 90,000–120,000 km or roughly every 6 years if wear isn’t evident earlier. Heat, stop–start use, and accessory load can shorten that window, so any cracking, glazing, or noise is reason to replace sooner.

What are the signs a Q5 drive-belt needs attention?
Look and listen for chirping or squealing, cracks between the ribs, frayed edges, or rubber dust around pulleys. If the A/C underperforms at idle or the battery light flickers, a slipping or worn belt (or weak tensioner) could be the culprit.