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Clunking Noise from Front Suspension on 2020 Q5

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:25 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Audi Q5 Prestige

Hey Audi fam,

I've got a 2020 Audi Q5 Prestige, and lately, I've been hearing a noticeable clunking or knocking sound from the front end, especially when going over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven pavement. It's most prominent at lower speeds.

The car has about 30,000 miles on it, and I haven't hit any major potholes recently that I can recall. The steering feels fine, no pulling or anything, but the noise is definitely concerning. Could this be a common issue with these Q5s? What should I be looking at?

Thanks for the input!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:25 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension of your 2020 Audi Q5 is a common complaint and often points to worn suspension components. Here's a guide to potential causes and actions:

  1. Common Causes of Front Suspension Clunking:

    • Sway Bar End Links: These are a very common culprit. The bushings or ball joints in the end links can wear out, causing a clunking sound as the suspension articulates.
    • Control Arm Bushings: Audi vehicles, especially as they age or accumulate miles, can develop worn control arm bushings. There are multiple control arms in the front suspension, and any of their bushings can fail.
    • Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top strut mounts or their associated bearings can wear out, leading to noise, especially over bumps or when turning the steering wheel.
    • Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints can also produce a clunking sound.
    • Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a loose bolt on a suspension component or even a loose brake caliper can cause noise.

  2. Diagnostic Steps:

    • Visual Inspection: With the car on a lift or jack stands, visually inspect all rubber bushings on the control arms, sway bar end links, and strut mounts for cracks, tears, or excessive play.
    • Shake Test: Grab the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock, then 3 and 9 o'clock, and try to rock it. Any significant play could indicate worn ball joints or wheel bearings (though wheel bearings usually hum).
    • Pry Bar Test: Carefully use a pry bar to check for play in control arm bushings and ball joints. This should be done by a professional.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • It is highly recommended to have a qualified mechanic inspect your suspension. Diagnosing clunking noises accurately often requires specialized tools and expertise to identify the exact worn component.
    • Ignoring suspension noises can lead to accelerated wear of other components, compromised handling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
    • A shop can perform a thorough inspection, identify the specific worn part, and provide a quote for replacement. Given your Q5's mileage, worn sway bar links or control arm bushings are strong candidates.
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