Parts for your 2020 Audi Q5-Steering bushes

2020 Audi Q5 steering bushes – what’s actually fitted

For the 2020 Audi Q5 (FY/B9, MLB Evo platform), traditional “steering bushes” aren’t a service item because the electric power steering rack is hard-mounted to the front subframe without separate, replaceable rack bushes. In other words, there aren’t standalone steering bushes to swap out on this model.

This isn’t just workshop folklore. Audi’s factory repair information (erWin – FY Q5, 2018–2020 Steering, Wheels and Suspension), the ETKA parts catalogue (Group 48 – Steering, FY Q5), and ZF’s technical material on its EPS racks all show the steering gear being bolted to the subframe with no separately listed rack-mount bushings. Any isolation for noise and vibration is engineered into the rack/subframe design and is not serviced as a separate bush.

Why doesn’t Audi use steering bushes here? Modern electric racks rely on very rigid mounting for precision, repeatable steering assistance and calibration. Compliance that used to come from old-school rack bushes is now controlled elsewhere: in the front control arm bushes (including hydro-bushes), anti-roll bar D-bushes, the subframe mounts, and the tyre and wheel package. That’s how Audi keeps steering feel crisp while keeping NVH in check.

If the Q5’s steering feels a bit off, mechanics should look at the usual suspects rather than hunting for non-existent steering bushes:

• Front lower control arm bushes (especially the large rear hydro-bushes)
• Front anti-roll bar bushes and links
• Inner and outer tie rod joints (rack ends and tie rod ends)
• Subframe alignment and mounts
• Steering intermediate shaft/universal joint play
• Wheel alignment and tyre condition/pressures

Typical symptoms that mimic “worn steering bushes” include clunks over bumps, vague on‑centre feel, tramlining, a knock on brake/accel transitions, and uneven tyre wear. Addressing the above items usually restores the Q5’s tidy turn-in and stability. If there’s genuine play at the rack or impact damage, the fix is generally rack replacement and a wheel alignment, followed by basic settings for the steering angle system using the correct diagnostic procedure.

Bottom line: “steering bushes” isn’t a relevant part category for the 2020 Audi Q5. Focus servicing on suspension bushes, tie rods, and alignment, and the steering will feel right as rain.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Audi Q5 have steering rack bushes I can replace?
No. The EPS rack is bolted to the subframe without separate, serviceable rack bushes. Any isolation is built into the rack/subframe design. If there’s movement or noise at the rack, the remedy is typically repair or replacement of the rack or related hardware, plus an alignment.

What should be checked if the steering feels loose on a 2020 Q5?
Start with the front control arm bushes, anti‑roll bar bushes and links, inner/outer tie rods, subframe alignment, and the steering intermediate shaft. Also check tyre wear, pressures, and get a proper four‑wheel alignment. Many “steering” complaints trace back to these items.

How often should suspension bushes be inspected on a 2020 Q5?
Have them inspected every 12 months or 20,000 km, sooner if you drive on rough roads. Replacement intervals vary widely—anywhere from 60,000 to 120,000+ km—depending on load, road quality, and driving style.