Parts for your 2020 Audi Q5-Suspension bushes

2020 Audi Q5 suspension bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Suspension bushes are absolutely used on the 2020 Audi Q5 (type FY, MLB evo platform). Audi workshop information (ElsaPro) and the Audi parts catalogue (ETKA) list rubber–metal bonded bushes at the front lower control arms (including a hydraulic bush), rear five‑link arms, front and rear subframes, and the stabiliser (sway) bars. Audi self‑study material for MLB evo also details these rubber mounts as key components for isolating noise and vibration while keeping wheel alignment stable under load.

On this Q5, the bushes act like small, tough cushions between alloy arms, subframes and the body. They soak up harshness, let the arms articulate smoothly, and keep geometry true when braking or cornering. That means quieter cabin, sharper steering feel, and more even tyre wear. Hydraulic (fluid‑filled) bushes up front further tame vibration, which is why the Q5 feels refined on coarse‑chip roads common in Australia and New Zealand.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, condition depends on kilometres, climate and road quality. As a guide, many Q5 bushes last 80,000–150,000 km, but heavy towing, gravel, potholes or frequent kerb strikes shorten life. Front lower control arm bushes and sway‑bar D‑bushes are common wear points, rear multi‑link bushes can harden or crack with age.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect bushes every 20,000 km or annually. Look and listen for:

• Clunks, creaks or a dull thud over bumps
• Steering shimmy under braking, tramlining, or a vague on‑centre feel
• Uneven or rapid inner/outer tyre wear
• Visible cracks, torn rubber, or fluid seepage from hydraulic bushes

When replacement is due, use quality OE or OE‑equivalent parts and follow correct fitting practice:

• Tighten pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid pre‑loading the bush
• Replace single‑use (torque‑to‑yield) bolts and nuts where specified
• Book a four‑wheel alignment afterwards to reset camber/toe
• Consider complete arm assemblies where bushes are bonded and not serviceable separately, it can be more cost‑effective on labour

Keeping the Q5’s bushes in good nick preserves that planted, quiet drive it’s known for and protects tyres and shocks from premature wear.

Does the 2020 Audi Q5 have suspension bushes?

Yes. The FY‑series Q5 uses rubber and hydraulic bushes throughout the front MacPherson strut and rear five‑link suspension, plus subframe and sway‑bar mounts. These control compliance, reduce NVH and stabilise wheel alignment.

How long do Q5 suspension bushes last, and what are the signs they’re worn?

Often 80,000–150,000 km, depending on roads and driving. Signs include clunks over bumps, steering shimmy when braking, tramlining, vague steering feel, uneven tyre wear, and visible cracks or fluid seepage from hydro‑bushes.

Can individual bushes be replaced, or do the whole arms need changing?

Both options exist. Some bushes are serviceable, but several Q5 arms are supplied as complete assemblies with bonded bushes. Depending on tooling and labour, replacing the full arm can be quicker and more economical. Always finish with a wheel alignment.