Audi Audi A8 2018-present Suspension Specifications
Audi Audi A8 2018-present

Audi Audi A8 2018-present Suspension Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 2018-Present Audi A8 suspension system, including adaptive air suspension, dynamic all-wheel steering, and electronic damping control. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

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Suspension Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the suspension specifications for the 2018-Present Audi A8. It includes technical details, key features, and operational parameters. Use this guide to understand the suspension system's components, performance characteristics, and maintenance requirements. Refer to the sections below for in-depth information organized by major suspension components and subsystems.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords such as 'spring rate', 'damping forces', or 'suspension travel'. Results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

Navigate through the document by exploring the major sections listed below. Each section contains subsections with detailed technical specifications and descriptions. Use the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

Key Specifications

Spring Rate (Front)

120-180 N/mm

Spring Rate (Rear)

100-160 N/mm

Suspension Travel (Front)

80mm (compression), 90mm (rebound)

Suspension Travel (Rear)

70mm (compression), 85mm (rebound)

Damping Stages

5 stages (Comfort to Dynamic)

Available Specifications

Suspension Overview

This section provides a general overview of the suspension system in the 2018-Present Audi A8, including its key features and technical highlights. It serves as an introduction to the more detailed specifications found in subsequent sections.

Key Features
  • Adaptive Air Suspension as standard equipment
  • Electronically controlled damping system
  • Four-corner air springs with height adjustment
  • Load-leveling capability
  • Integration with Audi's 48-volt mild-hybrid system
Technical Highlights
  • Multi-material construction for reduced weight
  • Progressive-rate air springs for variable stiffness
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) for improved stability
  • All-wheel steering compatibility
  • Automatic ride height adjustment

Front Suspension

This section details the specifications and components of the front suspension system, including technical parameters and design features.

Front Suspension Components
  • Double wishbone design with aluminum components
  • Adaptive air springs with variable spring rates
  • Electronically controlled dampers
  • Anti-roll bars with variable stiffness
  • Hydraulic bushings for reduced noise
Technical Specifications
  • Spring rate: 120-180 N/mm (depending on load)
  • Damping forces: Adjustable in 5 stages
  • Suspension travel: 80mm (compression), 90mm (rebound)
  • Caster angle: 4.5°
  • Camper angle: 2.0°

Rear Suspension

This section provides detailed information about the rear suspension system, including its components and technical specifications.

Rear Suspension Components
  • Multi-link rear axle with aluminum components
  • Adaptive air springs with self-leveling function
  • Electronically controlled dampers
  • Torsion bars for additional stability
  • Hydraulic mounts for noise isolation
Technical Specifications
  • Spring rate: 100-160 N/mm (depending on load)
  • Damping forces: Adjustable in 5 stages
  • Suspension travel: 70mm (compression), 85mm (rebound)
  • Toe angle: 0.5°
  • Track width: 1,644mm

Electronic Suspension Systems

This section covers the advanced electronic systems integrated into the suspension, including control units, sensors, and software features.

Suspension Control Systems
  • Electronic Suspension Control (ESC)
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)
  • Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
  • All-Wheel Steering (AWS) integration
  • 48-volt mild-hybrid system compatibility
Sensor and Control Systems
  • Accelerometers for vertical and lateral acceleration
  • Wheel position sensors
  • Road surface scanners
  • CAN bus communication for system integration
  • Driver-adjustable modes (Comfort, Dynamic, etc.)

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Adaptive Air Suspension
Configuration
Multi-chamber air springs with electronic damping control
Platform
Audi MLB Evo platform
Material
Aluminum and high-strength steel components
Location
Front and rear axle

Dimensions

Spring Diameter Front
65 mm
Spring Diameter Rear
65 mm
Damper Stroke Front
120 mm (4.72 in)
Damper Stroke Rear
120 mm (4.72 in)
Air Spring Capacity
6.0 liters (0.21 cu-ft)
Ride Height Adjustment
Up to 50 mm (1.97 in) variable ride height

Materials

Air Spring Bellows
High-strength rubber with reinforced fibers
Dampers
Aluminum-bodied shock absorbers
Springs
High-strength steel coil springs
Suspension Links
Forged aluminum alloy
Stabilizer Bars
Hollow steel with anti-corrosion coating

Features

Ride Height Adjustment
  • Automatic lowering at high speeds
  • Manual height adjustment via MMI
  • Load-leveling functionality
Damping Control
  • Electronic damper control
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)
  • Multiple driving mode settings
Stability Systems
  • All-wheel steering integration
  • Electronic stability control (ESC)
  • Anti-roll stabilization
Self Leveling
  • Automatic self-leveling system
  • Load compensation
  • Tow hitch mode
Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic insulation
  • Hydraulic rebound stops
  • Low-friction bushings

Safety Features

Stability Control
  • Electronic stability control (ESC)
  • Traction control system (TCS)
  • Anti-slip regulation (ASR)
Impact Protection
  • Crash mode activation
  • Emergency braking preparation
  • Rollover protection
Fail Safe Mode
  • Automatic suspension stiffening
  • Emergency ride height maintenance
  • Fail-safe damping

Comfort Features

Noise Isolation
  • Acoustic optimization
  • Vibration damping mounts
  • Isolated subframes
Ride Quality
  • Adaptive damping
  • Progressive spring rates
  • Impact absorption
Adjustability
  • Driver-selectable modes
  • Customizable damping settings
  • Memory function for preferred settings
Ergonomics
  • Height adjustment for easy ingress/egress
  • Automatic lowering for cargo loading
  • Comfort-oriented suspension tuning

Accessories

Suspension Control
  • MMI suspension control module
  • Driver mode selector
  • Smartphone app integration
Replacement Parts
  • Audi OEM air spring replacement kits
  • Damper service kits
  • Suspension linkage sets
Upgrades
  • Sport suspension tuning kits
  • Dynamic suspension enhancement packages
  • Performance dampers

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • Inspection of air spring bellows
  • Damping system check
  • Suspension linkage lubrication
  • Height sensor calibration
  • Electronics system update
Maintenance Notes
Suspension system requires specialized tools and diagnostic equipment for service.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 40000
Years: 4
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 5
Coverage: Powertrain components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: 120000
Years: 12
Coverage: Perforation warranty
Adjustments Warranty
Miles: 18000
Years: 2
Coverage: Suspension adjustments and alignment

Production Details

Manufacturer
Name: Audi AG
Location: Ingolstadt, Germany
Manufacturing Process
  • Robot-assisted welding
  • Laser-cut components
  • High-strength material forming
  • Advanced coating processes
Quality Control
inspection Types: Dimensional checks, Material integrity testing, Functional testing
Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949, VDA 6.1
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable materials
  • Energy-efficient production
  • Emission-reducing processes
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Approx. 20,000 units
Cycle Time: 30 hours per unit
Automation Level: High automation (>70%)

Service Information for suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

12,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect air spring bellows for cracks or damage
  • Check damping system for leaks or irregularities
  • Lubricate suspension linkages
  • Calibrate height sensors
  • Update suspension control module software

Requires specialized tools and diagnostic equipment.

25,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace suspension linkage bushings
  • Inspect stabilizer bar links
  • Check damper performance
  • Test ride height and leveling system
  • Inspect air spring reservoirs

Recommend performing wheel alignment after service.

50,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace air springs if necessary
  • Overhaul dampers
  • Replace suspension mounting bearings
  • Inspect and clean height sensors
  • Perform full suspension system calibration

Major service recommended before extreme driving conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of suspension system does the 2018-Present Audi A8 use?

The 2018-Present Audi A8 features an adaptive air suspension system with dynamic damping control. This system automatically adjusts the ride height and damping characteristics based on driving conditions, offering a balance between comfort and performance. The suspension can lower the vehicle by up to 20 mm at high speeds for improved aerodynamics and raise it by up to 50 mm for off-road conditions.

Q2

What is the ground clearance of the Audi A8 with the adaptive air suspension?

The ground clearance of the Audi A8 with adaptive air suspension varies depending on the driving mode and conditions. In normal mode, the ground clearance is approximately 120 mm. In dynamic mode, it can lower to 100 mm, and in off-road mode, it can increase to 170 mm.

Q3

How does the dynamic damping control work in the Audi A8 suspension?

The dynamic damping control system in the Audi A8 uses sensors to monitor road conditions and driving dynamics in real-time. It adjusts the damping force at each wheel independently to optimize ride comfort and handling. The system can switch between soft, medium, and firm damping settings within milliseconds, ensuring optimal performance in various driving scenarios.

Q4

Can the suspension system be manually adjusted in the Audi A8?

Yes, the Audi A8 allows drivers to manually adjust the suspension settings through the Audi Drive Select system. Drivers can choose between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual modes, each offering different suspension characteristics. Additionally, the ride height can be manually adjusted in certain situations, such as when loading or unloading the vehicle.

Q5

What are the recommended maintenance intervals for the Audi A8 suspension system?

Audi recommends inspecting the suspension system, including the air springs and dampers, every 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. Regular checks should include inspecting for leaks, wear, and proper operation of the adaptive damping system. Always refer to the official Audi service manual for specific maintenance procedures and intervals.

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 A8 Suspension System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical overview of the adaptive air suspension and dynamic damping control system in the Audi A8.

Audi Drive Select System Guide

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide on using the Audi Drive Select system to customize suspension settings and driving modes.

Audi A8 Suspension Maintenance Tips

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for maintaining the adaptive air suspension system, including inspection and troubleshooting tips.

Audi Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Official catalog of genuine Audi suspension components, including air springs, dampers, and control modules.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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