Parts for your 2018 Audi Q5-Pedal pads

2018 Audi Q5 Pedal Pads – What They Do and When to Replace

Pedal pads are relevant to the 2018 Audi Q5 (type FY). Audi’s Genuine Parts Catalogue (ETKA) and the Audi Workshop Manual (ELSA/erWin) identify a removable rubber pedal cap on the brake pedal, and on the clutch pedal where a manual transmission is fitted. The accelerator is a self-contained pedal module with a fixed, textured surface rather than a replaceable rubber pad. So, for most AU/NZ vehicles with the S tronic automatic, the pedal pad in question is the brake pedal cap, manual variants also have a clutch pedal pad.

On this Q5, the brake (and clutch, if applicable) pedal pad provides grip and a consistent pedal feel, especially in the wet. The ribbed rubber face reduces the chance of a foot slipping and helps maintain precise control under hard braking. Over time, rubber hardens, smooths off, or cracks, which can erode both comfort and safety. That’s why Audi service information calls for visual checks of pedal condition during routine servicing, replacing the pad if worn or damaged.

Replacement is straightforward. With the vehicle safely parked, the old pad is peeled off the metal pedal plate. A genuine or high-quality equivalent cap is then worked on from one edge, stretching the rubber over the plate until the lip fully seats all the way around. Warming the new pad slightly (room temperature or a brief soak in warm water) can make fitment easier. After installation, technicians confirm the pad is evenly seated and won’t lift at the corners. No lubricants or adhesives should be used on the contact face, as they can reduce grip.

Service advisors typically recommend inspecting pedal pads at every service and replacing them when: the ribs are worn flat or shiny, edges are curling, the rubber shows splits, or if any slip is noticed when footwear is wet. Genuine parts match the pedal plate perfectly and maintain the OE look, alloy “S line” style covers are available for appearance but must retain adequate grip and clear pedal travel. For AU/NZ compliance and safety, mats should be correctly anchored so they can’t ride up under the pedals, and any accessory covers must not reduce traction.

For owners of automatic Q5s, note that the accelerator pedal surface isn’t a replaceable rubber cap, if its surface is damaged, the pedal module is serviced as an assembly per Audi guidance.

• Fitted components: Brake pedal pad (automatic and manual), Clutch pedal pad (manual only), Accelerator: no removable pad.
• Check at each service, replace when worn, shiny, cracked, or loose.
• Prefer genuine or OE-quality pads for best fit and grip.

Popular questions

Which pedals on a 2018 Audi Q5 have replaceable pads?
The brake pedal has a replaceable rubber pad on all variants. Manual-transmission Q5s also have a rubber clutch pedal pad. The accelerator uses a fixed-texture pedal module without a removable pad.

How often should the brake pedal pad be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, it’s condition-based. It should be checked at each service and replaced when the rubber is smooth, cracked, hard, or curling at the edges, or if there’s any sign of foot slip, especially in wet weather.

Can alloy or “S line” pedal covers be fitted safely?
Yes, when using quality, vehicle-specific kits that retain a grippy rubber insert and don’t interfere with pedal travel. They should be installed correctly and remain compliant with local safety expectations, while floor mats must be secured to avoid fouling the pedals.