Audi Audi A3 2013-2020 Suspension Specifications
Audi Audi A3 2013-2020

Audi Audi A3 2013-2020 Suspension Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and service information for the 2013-2020 Audi A3 suspension system. Includes front and rear suspension components, alignment data, torque values, and maintenance guidelines.

Updated

Suspension Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the suspension specifications for the 2013-2020 Audi A3. It includes detailed technical information about the front and rear suspension systems, components, and adjustments. Use this guide to understand the suspension setup, identify key components, and reference specifications for maintenance or upgrades. Navigate through the sections to find specific details, and use the quick reference section for key measurements and values.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords related to the suspension component or specification you're looking for. Narrow down results by focusing on relevant sections.

Navigate through the document by exploring the main sections such as Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, and Suspension Components. Each section contains subsections with detailed technical points for easy reference.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

60 N/mm

Rear Spring Rate

80 N/mm

Front Ride Height

130 mm

Rear Ride Height

140 mm

Front Anti-Roll Bar Diameter

23 mm

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the 2013-2020 Audi A3 features a MacPherson strut design with specific components and adjustments. This section provides detailed technical specifications and key measurements.

MacPherson Strut Design
  • Strut type: Gas-filled, twin-tube design
  • Spring type: Coil spring with progressive rate
  • Damping adjustment: Fixed damping rates
  • Strut mount: Forged aluminum with rubber isolator
  • Travel: 120 mm (compression), 80 mm (rebound)
Anti-Roll Bars
  • Front bar diameter: 23 mm
  • Bar material: High-strength steel
  • Mounting: Direct to subframe
  • Adjustment: Non-adjustable
  • Function: Reduces body roll during cornering

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension of the 2013-2020 Audi A3 features a multi-link design with specific components and adjustments. This section provides detailed technical specifications and key measurements.

Multi-Link Design
  • Link type: 4-link setup with separate toe and camber links
  • Spring type: Coil spring with progressive rate
  • Damping adjustment: Fixed damping rates
  • Bushings: Hydraulic bushings for reduced noise
  • Travel: 100 mm (compression), 70 mm (rebound)
Coil Springs
  • Spring rate: 60 N/mm (front), 80 N/mm (rear)
  • Spring length: 180 mm
  • Spring diameter: 65 mm
  • Material: High-strength steel
  • Coating: Powder-coated for corrosion resistance

Suspension Components

This section details the key components of the suspension system, including shock absorbers, stabilizer links, and control arms.

Shock Absorbers
  • Type: Twin-tube, gas-pressurized
  • Damping force: 1500 N (front), 2000 N (rear)
  • Valving: Fixed, non-adjustable
  • Mounting: Direct to strut and axle
  • Fluid type: Synthetic hydraulic fluid
Stabilizer Links
  • Length: 220 mm
  • Material: Forged steel
  • Ball joint type: Greasable, sealed
  • Adjustment: Non-adjustable
  • Function: Connects anti-roll bar to suspension

Key Specifications

This section provides a quick reference to the key specifications of the suspension system.

Key Measurements
  • Front spring rate: 60 N/mm
  • Rear spring rate: 80 N/mm
  • Front ride height: 130 mm
  • Rear ride height: 140 mm
  • Front camber: -1.0° to 1.0°
  • Rear camber: -1.0° to 1.0°
  • Front toe: 0° to 0.5°
  • Rear toe: 0° to 0.5°

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
MacPherson Strut Front, Torsion Beam Rear
Configuration
Front: MacPherson Strut with Lower Control Arms, Rear: Torsion Beam Axle
Platform
Volkswagen Group MQB Platform
Material
Steel (Front Knuckles and Control Arms), Aluminum (Some Components)
Location
Front and Rear

Dimensions

Front Strut Diameter
50 mm (1.97 in)
Rear Torsion Bar Diameter
22 mm (0.87 in)
Front Spring Rate
150 N/mm (8.58 lb/in)
Rear Spring Rate
120 N/mm (6.87 lb/in)
Shock ABSorber Stroke
140 mm (5.51 in)
Ride Height
120 mm (4.72 in) front, 130 mm (5.12 in) rear
Track Width
1,521 mm (59.88 in) front, 1,514 mm (59.65 in) rear
Wheel Travel
70 mm (2.76 in) front, 80 mm (3.15 in) rear

Materials

Front Strut
High-strength steel with internal rebound spring
Rear Torsion Bar
High-strength steel with rubber mounts
Control Arms
Forged steel with bushings
Subframe
Aluminum alloy with integrated reinforced mounts

Features

Ride Comfort
  • Progressive-rate springs
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Anti-roll bars (22 mm front, 20 mm rear)
  • Isolated subframe for reduced noise
Handling
  • Sport-tuned dampers
  • Dynamic Ride Control (optional)
  • Electronic Stability Control integration
  • Weight distribution optimization
Weight Reduction
  • Aluminum subframe
  • Lightweight control arms
  • Hollow anti-roll bars
  • Reduced unsprung mass
Adjustability
  • Optional adaptive dampers
  • Lowering springs compatibility
  • Camber adjustment capability
  • Aftermarket coilover support

Safety Features

Stability Control
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Anti-slip regulation (ASR)
  • Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Collision Protection
  • Crash-optimized front subframe
  • Energy-absorbing materials
  • Rigid rear axle construction
Overload Protection
  • Load-sensing valve
  • Overload protection in dampers
  • Torsion bar stress monitoring

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Isolated subframe mounts
  • Rubber-torsion bar mounts
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Anti-vibration pads
Ride Quality
  • Progressive spring rates
  • Frequency-selective dampers
  • Anti-roll bars for reduced body roll
  • Optimized bushing stiffness
Adjustability
  • Optional adaptive damping
  • Manual ride height adjustment
  • Camber adjustment capability
  • Aftermarket suspension tuning

Accessories

Suspension Kits
  • Aftermarket coilover kits
  • Lowering springs
  • Adjustable dampers
  • Camber plates
Upgrades
  • Anti-roll bar upgrades
  • Bushings replacement kits
  • Spherical bearings
  • Performance shock absorbers
Tools
  • Spring compressors
  • Strut rebuild tools
  • Camber adjustment tools
  • Suspension alignment tools

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Inspect front and rear suspension components every 15,000 miles or 1 year
  • Replace shock absorbers every 50,000 miles or 5 years
  • Lubricate suspension bushings every 30,000 miles or 3 years
  • Check anti-roll bar links every 10,000 miles or 1 year
  • Inspect torsion bar for wear every 25,000 miles or 2 years
Maintenance Notes
  • Regular inspection of suspension components is critical for maintaining ride quality and safety
  • Replace any worn or damaged bushings immediately
  • Use only OEM or equivalent replacement parts
  • Consider upgrading to performance suspension components for improved handling

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 48,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Notes: Covers all suspension components against manufacturing defects
Powertrain
Miles: 70,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Powertrain components including suspension mounts
Notes: Covers suspension components related to powertrain functionality
Corrosion
Miles: No limit
Years: 12
Coverage: Perforation of suspension components due to corrosion
Notes: Applies to body and suspension metal components
Maintenance
Miles: Planned maintenance for suspension components
Years: as per service intervals
Coverage: Covers routine maintenance and inspections
Notes: Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance

Production Details

Manufacturer
Name: Volkswagen Group
Facility: Ingolstadt, Germany
Quality Control: inspections: Dimensional checks,Material quality verification,Functional testing,Leak testing,Performance testing, Certifications: ISO 9001:2015,IATF 16949:2016,VDA 6.3
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining
  • Robot welding
  • Hydraulic press forming
  • Heat treatment
  • Surface coating
Sustainability Practices
  • Use of recycled materials
  • Energy-efficient production processes
  • Reduced emissions manufacturing
  • Recycling of production waste
Production Metrics
Volume: Over 1 million units produced annually
Cycle Time: Approximately 10 hours per unit
Quality Rate: Over 99.9% defect-free rate
Energy Efficiency: Reduced energy consumption by 20% compared to previous models

Service Information for suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

15,000
12
  • Inspect front and rear suspension components for wear
  • Check shock absorbers for leaks or damage
  • Lubricate suspension bushings
  • Inspect anti-roll bar links
  • Check ride height

Ensure all components are within manufacturer specifications

30,000
24
  • Replace shock absorbers if worn
  • Inspect torsion bar for wear or damage
  • Check control arm bushings
  • Inspect subframe mounts
  • Check anti-roll bars for damage

Consider upgrading to performance suspension components if necessary

60,000
48
  • Replace all suspension bushings
  • Inspect front and rear subframes
  • Check torsion bar mounts
  • Inspect control arms for damage
  • Check anti-roll bar links

Major service interval, ensure all components are replaced or serviced as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of suspension system does the 2013-2020 Audi A3 use?

The 2013-2020 Audi A3 features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a four-link independent rear suspension. This setup provides a balance of comfort and sporty handling, with precise control and stability.

Q2

What is the recommended tire pressure for the Audi A3 suspension system?

The recommended tire pressure for the Audi A3 varies by trim and wheel size. For standard models, the front tires should be inflated to 35 psi and the rear tires to 33 psi. Always refer to the tire pressure label on the driver's side door jamb for specific recommendations.

Q3

How often should the suspension components be inspected?

Audi recommends inspecting the suspension components every 15,000 miles or during routine maintenance. Key components to check include the struts, shock absorbers, control arms, and bushings for wear or damage.

Q4

Can the Audi A3 suspension be upgraded for better performance?

Yes, the Audi A3 suspension can be upgraded with performance parts such as coilovers, sport springs, or adjustable dampers. However, modifications may affect the vehicle's warranty and should be performed by a certified Audi technician.

Q5

What is the ride height of the Audi A3?

The ride height of the 2013-2020 Audi A3 varies by trim and suspension setup. For standard models, the ride height is approximately 5.9 inches (150 mm) from the ground to the lowest point of the chassis.

Q6

How do I know if my Audi A3 suspension needs repair?

Signs of suspension issues include uneven tire wear, excessive bouncing, knocking noises, or a noticeable drop in ride quality. If any of these symptoms occur, have the suspension inspected by a qualified technician immediately.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi A3 Suspension Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining and inspecting the suspension system of the 2013-2020 Audi A3, including step-by-step procedures and safety tips.

OEM Suspension Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official Audi parts catalog for genuine suspension components, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance for your A3.

Audi A3 Suspension Troubleshooting

Coming Soon

Learn how to diagnose common suspension issues in the Audi A3, with solutions and recommended repair procedures.

Performance Suspension Upgrades

Coming Soon

Explore performance suspension options for the Audi A3, including installation guides and compatibility information.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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