Parts for your 2017 Audi Q5-Struts

2017 Audi Q5 struts

For the 2017 Audi Q5 (8R), “struts” aren’t actually a thing. Audi engineered this model with a five‑link front axle and a trapezoidal‑link independent rear axle. In these designs the wheel location and load paths are handled by multiple control arms, while separate shock absorbers and coil springs manage damping and ride height. That means there are no MacPherson struts on this Q5. This setup is documented in Audi Self‑Study Programme 424 (The Audi Q5) and the related running‑gear SSPs for the MLB platform (e.g., SSP 441 for the A4 B8), as well as Audi’s erWin workshop manuals for the Q5 (8R) front and rear suspension sections. These technical sources describe shocks and springs mounted within the multi‑link geometry, not structural strut units.

Why did Audi skip struts on this model? A true MacPherson strut acts as a structural member, locating the wheel as well as damping. Audi’s multi‑link approach decouples those jobs, improving precision and comfort:

• Better camber control through the stroke for confident cornering and even tyre wear.
• Reduced steering kickback and road noise thanks to optimised bushing and link geometry.
• More freedom to tune ride/handling separately via control arms versus the damper unit.

So, if someone’s searching for “2017 Audi Q5 struts”, what they’re really after are the shock absorbers (front damper assemblies and rear shocks), top mounts, bump stops and dust boots. Typical service triggers are oil misting or leaks on the shock body, a floaty or bouncy feel over undulations, clunks from worn mounts, cupped tyres, or longer stopping distances due to poor wheel control. Many owners find shocks and mounts are due somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km in mixed Australasian conditions, sooner if the vehicle has led a hard life on coarse‑chip roads.

When replacing, it pays to do shocks in axle pairs, renew mounts and protection kits at the same time, and book a four‑wheel alignment afterwards. If there’s play or perished bushes in the control arms, sort those with the same visit to bring the whole front or rear end back to spec. That way the Q5 keeps its tidy steering feel and settled ride without chasing phantom “strut” problems.

• Does a 2017 Audi Q5 have struts?
  Technically, no. It uses multi‑link suspension with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. Parts catalogues sometimes label the front damper assemblies as “struts”, but they’re not structural MacPherson struts.
• What should be replaced if the ride is harsh or bouncy on a 2017 Q5?
  Look to the shock absorbers first, along with top mounts, bump stops and dust boots. Also check control‑arm bushes and ball joints, then finish with a wheel alignment to protect tyre life.
• How often should the shocks be changed on a 2017 Audi Q5?
  There’s no fixed interval. Many need attention between 80,000 and 120,000 km. Replace sooner if there’s leakage, knocking, or noticeable loss of damping control.