Parts for your 2017 Audi Q5-Steering bushes

2017 Audi Q5 steering-bushes: what’s actually fitted and what isn’t

For the 2017 Audi Q5 (8R series), “steering-bushes” aren’t a thing in the way many older utes or hatches used them. According to Audi’s erWin workshop manual for the 8R Q5 (Group 48 – Steering) and the Volkswagen Group ETKA parts catalogue for the same model year, the steering rack is rigidly bolted to the front axle carrier (subframe) without separate, serviceable rack-mount bushes. The mounting hardware is a set of bolts and sleeves, there are no replaceable “steering bushes” listed for the rack itself.

This design is deliberate. The Q5’s steering gear (TRW/ZF unit depending on variant, hydraulic or electromechanical) relies on a solid, precise mount for accurate on-centre feel, lane-keeping/ADAS calibration (where fitted), and sharp response. Rubber isolator bushes at the rack would add compliance and vagueness. NVH control is instead handled through the subframe-to-body bushes, the control arm bushes, and careful tuning of the steering gear. That’s why you won’t find a catalogue listing for “steering-bushes” for a 2017 Q5 in the official Audi parts data or the repair procedures.

So, if there’s play, knock, or a wandering feel, the usual suspects aren’t “steering bushes” but other front-end items that are serviceable and commonly wear on this platform:

• Outer and inner tie rod ends (ball-jointed ends that directly affect steering play).
• Lower control arm bushes (rear hydro-bushes in particular can cause clunks and vague turn-in when worn).
• Front anti-roll bar bushes and links (knocks over bumps often trace back here).
• Wheel bearings and tyre condition/pressures (tramlining and vibration).
• Subframe alignment and hardware (if the subframe has been loosened, it needs correct re-centring and torque-to-yield bolts replaced).

For owners chasing a tidy drive feel, the smart move at service time is to request a full front-end inspection: check tie rods for axial play, inspect control arm bushes for cracking or fluid loss (on hydro-bush types), verify subframe bolt torque, and finish with a proper four-wheel alignment. If a supplier is advertising a “steering rack bush kit” for the 2017 Q5, it’s worth double-checking fitment notes—on the 8R Q5 the rack mounts aren’t designed to take separate bush inserts per Audi documentation.

Does a 2017 Audi Q5 have steering bushes you can replace?

No. The steering rack is solid-mounted to the subframe with bolts and sleeves and has no separate, serviceable rack-mount bushes listed in the Audi parts catalogue for the 2017 8R Q5. If there’s looseness, look to tie rod ends, control arm bushes, or subframe alignment instead.

What should be checked if the steering feels loose or knocks on a 2017 Q5?

Start with outer and inner tie rods, then inspect the lower control arm rear bushes, sway bar links and bushes, and front wheel bearings. Make sure the subframe hasn’t shifted and that all torque-to-yield bolts have been replaced if previously removed. Finish with a quality alignment.

How often should front-end/steering components be inspected on a Q5?

At each regular service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Aussie and Kiwi roads can be tough on bushes and ball joints, so periodic checks help catch wear early. Replace any stretch bolts disturbed during work and get an alignment after suspension or subframe jobs.