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2020 Audi Q5 - Clunking Noise from Front Suspension Over Bumps

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Audi Q5 45 TFSI

Hi Audi owners, I'm hoping someone can help me diagnose a sound coming from my 2020 Audi Q5 45 TFSI. For the past few weeks, I've been hearing a distinct clunking or knocking noise from the front end, particularly when going over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven pavement. It sounds like it's coming from the driver's side, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly.

The noise isn't present when driving on smooth roads or during braking, only when the suspension is articulating. The car drives fine otherwise, no pulling or steering issues, but the sound is really bothering me. I've checked the tire pressure and visually inspected what I can, but I don't see anything obviously loose.

Could this be something simple like a sway bar link, or something more serious with the control arms or struts? I'm trying to gather some info before I take it to the dealer, as I'm still under warranty.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise over bumps on an Audi Q5, especially from the front suspension, is a common complaint and can often be attributed to a few key components. Given your description, here are the most likely culprits:

  1. Sway Bar End Links: These are very common failure points. The ball joints on the end links can wear out, leading to play and a distinct clunking sound as the suspension moves up and down. They are relatively inexpensive to replace.
  2. Control Arm Bushings: Audi suspensions, particularly the multi-link front setup, rely on several control arms with rubber bushings. Over time, these bushings can crack, tear, or become excessively soft, allowing metal-on-metal contact or excessive movement, resulting in clunking.
  3. Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top strut mounts or the strut bearings can wear out. A worn strut mount can allow the top of the strut to move, causing a clunk. A bad strut bearing can also cause noise, sometimes accompanied by difficulty turning the steering wheel smoothly.
  4. Ball Joints: The lower control arm ball joints or other suspension ball joints can wear out, leading to play and noise. This can also affect alignment and tire wear if severe.
  5. Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a bolt for a suspension component (like a control arm or subframe) can come loose, causing noise. Also, check for anything loose in the engine bay that might be hitting the suspension components.

When to see a shop: Since your vehicle is still under warranty, it's highly recommended to take it to an authorized Audi dealership. Describe the noise precisely (when it occurs, what it sounds like, where it seems to come from). They will perform a thorough inspection, which typically involves:

  • Lifting the vehicle and inspecting all suspension components (control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bar links, struts).
  • Checking for play in any joints by prying with a bar or moving wheels by hand.
  • Visually inspecting for cracked or torn rubber bushings.

While this issue doesn't typically trigger OBD codes, it's important to address it promptly. Worn suspension components can lead to premature tire wear, reduced handling stability, and in extreme cases, safety concerns if a component completely fails.

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