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Front Suspension Clunking Noise on 2022 Audi S5 Sportback

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:48 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Audi S5 Sportback Premium

I've been hearing a persistent clunking noise from the front suspension of my 2022 Audi S5 Sportback Premium. It's most noticeable when going over small bumps, uneven pavement, or turning at low speeds, like pulling into a driveway. It sounds like a dull, metallic clunk, and it's definitely coming from the front end.

The car only has about 25,000 miles on it, so I'm surprised to be hearing something like this already. There's no noticeable change in handling or steering feel, just that annoying noise. I've checked the wheel nuts, and they're all tight.

Has anyone else experienced similar noises with their newer S5? Could it be something simple like a loose component, or something more serious with the suspension itself? Any advice on what to look for or what might be causing it would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:48 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension of a relatively new 2022 Audi S5 Sportback can be concerning but is often traceable to a few common components. Here's a breakdown of what might be causing it and how to proceed:

  1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the front suspension components. Look for any obvious signs of damage, loose parts, or torn rubber boots on control arms, sway bar links, and shock absorbers.
  2. Check Sway Bar End Links: These small links connect the sway bar to the control arm. They are a very common source of clunking noises when their bushings or ball joints wear out. Try to wiggle them by hand (when the car is safely jacked up) to feel for play.
  3. Inspect Control Arm Bushings: Audi S5s have multiple control arms in their multi-link front suspension. Worn or torn rubber bushings on these arms can cause clunking as metal-on-metal contact occurs. This is a very common issue on many performance cars.
  4. Examine Shock Mounts: The top mounts of the shock absorbers can wear out, leading to play and noise, especially over bumps.
  5. Wheel Bearings/Ball Joints: While less likely to be a clunk and more of a hum or grind, severely worn wheel bearings or lower ball joints could also contribute to front-end noises.

Common Causes:

  • Worn Sway Bar End Links: The most frequent culprit for clunking over small bumps.
  • Degraded Control Arm Bushings: Rubber components wear out over time and use, allowing excessive movement.
  • Loose or Failing Shock Mounts: Can cause a clunk as the shock body moves within its mounting.
  • Loose Components: Occasionally, a bolt or nut might simply be loose, allowing a component to shift and clunk.

When to See a Shop: If a simple visual inspection doesn't reveal the source, or if you're uncomfortable inspecting suspension components yourself, it's highly recommended to take your S5 to an Audi dealership or a reputable independent mechanic specializing in European cars. They can put the vehicle on a lift, use pry bars to check for play in all suspension joints, and accurately diagnose the source of the clunk. There are typically no OBD-II codes associated with mechanical suspension noises, so a physical inspection is essential.

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