Parts for your 2017 Audi Q5-Thrust bearing

2017 Audi Q5 Thrust Bearing

Yes — a thrust bearing is fitted to the 2017 Audi Q5. On the Q5’s petrol EA888 Gen 3 and diesel EA288 engines, the crankshaft’s axial movement is controlled by thrust-bearing surfaces integrated into the main bearing set (typically at the centre main journal). This layout is described in Audi’s Self‑Study Programme on the EA888 Gen 3 engine and mirrored in the Audi erWin workshop manuals and ETKA parts listings, which show the main bearings including thrust faces/washers to set crank end float. While the 7‑speed S tronic and 8‑speed Tiptronic transmissions have their own release/throw‑out or thrust elements, “thrust bearing” in normal service terms for a Q5 is the engine crankshaft thrust bearing.

Purpose-wise, the thrust bearing keeps the crankshaft from wandering forward and back under axial loads — think of clutch engagement loads (on S tronic) or torque converter thrust via the flexplate (Tiptronic), as well as accessory belt and combustion forces. By keeping end float tight to spec, it protects the crank, block, timing drive, and transmission interface from nasty misalignment and wear.

It’s not a routine service item. The thrust bearing is addressed during engine overhaul or if axial clearance is out of spec. Good oil quality and pressure are its best friends, so regular oil changes with the correct VW-approved spec are key. If the vehicle has seen heavy towing, harsh shifting events, oil starvation, or contamination, a check is sensible when the sump is off or the engine is otherwise open.

• Common signs to investigate:
  • Noticeable fore–aft movement of the crank pulley/harmonic balancer.
  • Metallic rubbing or a dull knock that changes when drivetrain load changes.
  • On S tronic models, a change in noise or idle behaviour when engaging Drive that points to axial load sensitivity.
• Service advice if replacement is required:
  • Measure crankshaft end float with a dial indicator and compare to factory spec from Audi erWin.
  • Replace bearings as a matched main-bearing/thrust set, inspect crank thrust faces for scoring and correct if needed.
  • Check oil clearances, use assembly lube, and torque main caps in sequence with new fasteners where specified.
  • Re-verify end float after torquing, confirm oil supply passages are clean and the pick-up is spotless.

For owners keen to keep their Q5 happy across Aussie and Kiwi kilometres, sticking to the correct oil, avoiding extended low-oil-pressure events, and addressing any abnormal noises early will keep the thrust bearing doing its quiet, critical job for the long haul.

Does the 2017 Audi Q5 actually have a thrust bearing?

It does. Audi’s Self‑Study Programme for the EA888 Gen 3 and the erWin workshop manuals specify thrust-bearing faces built into the main bearing set to control crankshaft end float. ETKA parts listings for 2017 Q5 engines also show thrust elements included with the main bearings.

When should the thrust bearing be replaced on a 2017 Q5?

Only during an engine rebuild or if axial clearance is out of spec, or there’s confirmed thrust-face damage from oil starvation or contamination. It’s not a periodic service item, a technician will measure end float and inspect thrust faces before recommending replacement.

What symptoms point to thrust bearing trouble on a Q5?

Look for excessive crank pulley fore–aft movement, a change in noise or idle when driveline load is applied, or metallic rubbing that varies with load. Any of these call for professional diagnosis with proper end‑float measurement against Audi specifications.