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2019 Q7 suspension noise (creaks/clunks) over bumps – Bushings or air suspension?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:16 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Audi Q7 3.0T Premium

Hi all,

I've got a 2019 Audi Q7 3.0T Premium, and lately, I've noticed some concerning noises coming from the suspension. It's a distinct creaking or sometimes a soft clunking sound, especially when going over speed bumps, uneven pavement, or even just turning into my driveway.

The noise seems to be coming from the front, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly. My Q7 has the adaptive air suspension. I'm worried it might be something serious. Could it be worn bushings, or is this a common issue with the air suspension components?

What should I be looking for, or what questions should I ask when I take it to the dealer? Any experiences with similar noises in your Q7s would be helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:16 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Suspension noises like creaks and clunks over bumps in a 2019 Audi Q7 are definitely a cause for concern and indicate that something in the suspension system needs attention. While the Q7's adaptive air suspension is sophisticated, it's not immune to wear and tear or specific component failures.

Here are the most common culprits for such noises:

  1. Worn Control Arm Bushings: This is a very frequent cause of creaking and clunking in Audis. The rubber bushings in the various control arms (upper and lower) can degrade over time, especially with exposure to road salt and temperature extremes. When they wear out, metal-on-metal contact or excessive play can create noise.
  2. Sway Bar End Links/Bushings: The end links connecting the sway bar to the suspension components, or the bushings holding the sway bar to the chassis, can wear out and produce knocking or clunking sounds, particularly over uneven surfaces.
  3. Ball Joints: Worn ball joints in the control arms can also cause clunking or popping noises as the suspension articulates.
  4. Air Suspension Components: While less common than bushing issues, problems with the air springs (air bags), air struts, or even the compressor/lines can manifest as noises. A leaking air spring might cause a hiss or a thud if it's not maintaining pressure correctly, but creaks are usually mechanical.
  5. Strut Mounts: The top mounts for the struts (even air struts) can wear out, leading to clunking noises, especially when turning or going over bumps.

When to See a Shop:

  • Promptly: Any unusual suspension noise should be investigated promptly. Ignoring these sounds can lead to accelerated wear on other components, compromised handling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
  • Professional Inspection: An Audi specialist or a reputable independent shop with experience in European vehicles should perform a thorough suspension inspection. This involves getting the vehicle on a lift, visually inspecting all bushings, ball joints, control arms, and air suspension components for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. They will also check for play in the wheels and suspension components.
  • Road Test: A diagnostic road test can help the technician pinpoint the exact location and nature of the noise. There are no direct OBD-II codes for mechanical suspension noises like creaks or clunks, but if there were an issue with the adaptive air suspension system itself (e.g., a sensor or compressor fault), you might see codes like P0455 (EVAP Leak Large) or P0442 (EVAP Leak Small) if a vacuum line is involved, or specific chassis codes related to ride height sensors or air pressure.
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