Audi Audi A4 2001-2004 Suspension Specifications
Audi Audi A4 2001-2004

Audi Audi A4 2001-2004 Suspension Specifications

Comprehensive technical specifications for the 2001-2004 Audi A4 suspension system, including front and rear suspension components, alignment settings, torque values, and maintenance procedures.

Updated

Suspension Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the suspension specifications for the 2001-2004 Audi A4. It includes technical details, maintenance recommendations, and key measurements to help users understand and service the suspension system. Use this guide to identify components, understand specifications, and perform routine maintenance or upgrades.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'spring rate', 'shock absorber', or 'stabilizer bar'. Results will highlight relevant sections.

Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the table of contents. Each major section is divided into subsections for easier access to detailed information.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

80-100 N/mm

Rear Spring Rate

90-110 N/mm

Front Suspension Travel

110 mm (compression), 130 mm (rebound)

Rear Suspension Travel

120 mm (compression), 140 mm (rebound)

Recommended Tire Size

225/45R17

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the 2001-2004 Audi A4 features a MacPherson strut design with specific components designed for handling and stability. This section details the technical specifications and components of the front suspension system.

MacPherson Strut Assembly
  • Constructed from high-strength steel
  • Features a coil spring with integrated shock absorber
  • Strut towers are reinforced for added stability
  • Recommended replacement interval: 80,000 - 100,000 miles
  • Torque specification for strut mounting bolts: 45-55 Nm
Control Arms
  • Made from forged aluminum for durability
  • Bushings are rubber-mounted for noise reduction
  • Ball joints have a grease-filled design
  • Replacement interval: 70,000 - 90,000 miles
  • Tightening torque for control arm bolts: 60-70 Nm

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension of the 2001-2004 Audi A4 utilizes a trailing arm design with a torsion beam. This section provides detailed specifications for the rear suspension components.

Trailing Arms
  • Constructed from lightweight aluminum
  • Features a bushing design for smooth articulation
  • Trailing arm bolts torque specification: 50-60 Nm
  • Replacement interval: 80,000 - 100,000 miles
  • Bushings should be inspected every 50,000 miles
Torsion Beam
  • Hollow tube design for reduced weight
  • Spring rate: 80-100 N/mm
  • Recommended replacement interval: 100,000 miles
  • Torque specification for beam mounting bolts: 40-50 Nm

Maintenance & Upgrades

Regular maintenance is essential to maintain the suspension system's performance. This section outlines recommended maintenance intervals and upgrade options.

Inspection Intervals
  • Inspect shock absorbers every 30,000 miles
  • Check bushings and ball joints every 50,000 miles
  • Lubricate control arm bushings every 60,000 miles
  • Inspect coil springs for sagging or damage
  • Check stabilizer bar links every 40,000 miles
Upgrade Options
  • Performance coilovers for adjustable ride height
  • Stiffer sway bars for improved handling
  • Polyurethane bushings for reduced deflection
  • Upgraded shock absorbers for better damping
  • Lightweight alloy components for reduced unsprung mass

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Double Wishbone (Front), Trapezoidal-Link (Rear)
Configuration
Front: Double Wishbone, Rear: Trapezoidal-Link
Platform
Volkswagen Group B5
Material
Steel (Front), Aluminum (Rear)
Location
Front and Rear Axle

Dimensions

Spring Rate Front
84 N/mm
Spring Rate Rear
73 N/mm
Shock ABSorber Diameter
40 mm
Stabilizer Bar Diameter Front
19 mm
Stabilizer Bar Diameter Rear
17 mm
Ride Height
125 mm (Front), 130 mm (Rear)
Suspension Travel
70 mm (Front), 65 mm (Rear)
Wheel Bearing Size
40 mm (Front), 37 mm (Rear)

Materials

Front Subframe
Steel
Control Arms
Aluminum Alloy
Shock ABSorbers
Steel Body with Hydraulic Damping
Stabilizer Bars
Hollow Steel
Bushings
Polyurethane

Features

Ride Comfort
  • Multi-Link Suspension Design
  • Optimized Bushings for Reduced Noise
  • Progressive Rate Springs
Handling
  • Anti-Dive Geometry
  • Anti-Squat Suspension
  • Rear Trapezoidal Link for Stability
Adjustability
  • Manual Ride Height Adjustment
  • Optional Sport Suspension Lowering
Performance
  • Gas-Pressurized Shock Absorbers
  • Dynamic Damping Control

Safety Features

Load Protection
  • Reinforced Mounting Points
  • Crash-Optimized Design
Deformation Zones
  • Programmed Deformation Pathways
  • Energy-Absorbing Materials
Impact ABSorption
Integrated into Subframe and Bushings

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Isolated Subframe Mounts
  • Hydraulic Bushings
Stability
  • Wide Track Width
  • Low Center of Gravity
Damping Control
Frequency-Dependent Damping

Accessories

Suspension Tools
  • Spring Compressor
  • Ball Joint Separator
  • Shock Absorber Tool
Hardware
  • Bolts and Nuts Kit
  • Bushings Kit
  • Stabilizer Links
Replacement Parts
  • Complete Strut Assembly
  • Shock Absorbers Set
  • Control Arms Kit

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Miles: 30,000 miles, Months: 24 months, Items: Inspect Shocks and Struts,Check Bushings for Wear,Tighten Suspension Bolts,Inspect Stabilizer Links, Note: Visual inspection and basic tightening
  • Miles: 60,000 miles, Months: 48 months, Items: Replace Shock Absorbers,Replace Bushings,Inspect Control Arms,Check Stabilizer Bar Links, Note: Replacement of wearable components
  • Miles: 90,000 miles, Months: 72 months, Items: Overhaul Front Suspension,Replace Rear Suspension Bushings,Inspect Subframe Mounts,Check Ride Height, Note: Major overhaul and alignment check
Maintenance Notes
Follow manufacturer's recommendations for replacement parts.

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 48,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Parts and Labor
Powertrain
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Parts and Labor
Corrosion
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 10 years
Coverage: Perforation Only
Maintenance
Miles: 30,000 miles
Years: 2 years
Coverage: Scheduled Maintenance

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • Robot-Welded Subframe
  • CNC Machined Components
  • E-Coating for Corrosion Protection
  • Bake-Oven Painted Parts
Quality Control
inspection: Dimensional and Functional Testing
Certification: ISO 9001:2015
Testing: Durability and Performance Testing
Sustainability Practices
Recyclable Materials and Energy-Efficient Manufacturing
Production Metrics
Units Per Year: 125,000 units
Production Cycle: 45 days
Defect Rate: Less than 1%
Warranty Claim Rate: Low

Service Information for Suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Inspect shock absorbers and struts
  • Check bushings for wear
  • Tighten suspension bolts
  • Inspect stabilizer links

Visual inspection and basic tightening required

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace shock absorbers
  • Replace bushings
  • Inspect control arms
  • Check stabilizer bar links

Replacement of wearable components recommended

90,000 miles
72 months
  • Overhaul front suspension
  • Replace rear suspension bushings
  • Inspect subframe mounts
  • Check ride height

Major overhaul and alignment check necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the recommended ride height for the 2001-2004 Audi A4 suspension?

The factory ride height for the 2001-2004 Audi A4 is approximately 6.5 inches (165 mm) from the ground to the bottom of the front fender and 6.7 inches (170 mm) for the rear. These measurements may vary slightly depending on the trim level and optional suspension packages.

Q2

What type of suspension system does the 2001-2004 Audi A4 use?

The 2001-2004 Audi A4 features a four-link front suspension with an independent rear suspension. The front suspension uses coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal-link setup with coil springs and shock absorbers. Some models may include the optional Sport Suspension, which lowers the ride height by 20 mm and features stiffer springs and dampers.

Q3

What is the torque specification for the front suspension control arm bolts?

The torque specification for the front suspension control arm bolts on the 2001-2004 Audi A4 is 81 lb-ft (110 Nm) for the upper control arm bolts and 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) for the lower control arm bolts. Always use a torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's tightening sequence to ensure proper alignment and safety.

Q4

How often should the suspension components be inspected?

Audi recommends inspecting the suspension components every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or during routine maintenance. Pay special attention to the condition of the bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers. Worn components should be replaced immediately to maintain handling and safety.

Q5

Can I install aftermarket suspension components without voiding the warranty?

Installing aftermarket suspension components may void your warranty if they are not approved by Audi or if they cause damage to other systems. Always consult your dealer or warranty documentation before making modifications. Using genuine Audi parts is recommended to ensure compatibility and maintain warranty coverage.

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 A4 Suspension Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official Audi service manual detailing suspension system maintenance, repair procedures, and specifications for the 2001-2004 A4.

Sport Suspension Upgrade Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for upgrading to the Audi Sport Suspension, including part numbers, installation instructions, and alignment settings.

Suspension Alignment Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed alignment specifications for the 2001-2004 Audi A4, including camber, caster, and toe settings for standard and sport suspension setups.

Common Suspension Issues and Solutions

Coming Soon

A troubleshooting guide addressing common suspension problems such as noise, uneven tire wear, and handling issues specific to the 2001-2004 Audi A4.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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