Audi Audi Q5 2017-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Audi Audi Q5 2017-present

Audi Audi Q5 2017-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all suspension bolts on the 2017-Present Audi Q5 (B9/FY generation). Includes front and rear suspension components.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Front Suspension

Torque specifications for the front suspension components of a 2017-Present Audi Q5. These components are crucial for vehicle handling, stability, and safety.

1

Upper Control Arm to Chassis Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the upper control arm to the chassis. Critical for wheel alignment and suspension stability.
2

Upper Control Arm to Ball Joint Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the upper control arm to the ball joint.
3

Lower Control Arm to Chassis Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the lower control arm to the subframe. A high-load fastener.
4

Lower Control Arm to Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
66 ft-lbs (90 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the lower control arm to the ball joint.
5

Sway Bar Link to Strut Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the sway bar link to the strut.
6

Sway Bar Link to Sway Bar Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the sway bar link to the sway bar.
7

Strut to Steering Knuckle Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the strut to the steering knuckle. A critical load-bearing connection.
8

Strut Upper Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the top of the strut assembly to the chassis. Estimated value.
9

Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
81 ft-lbs (110 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake caliper bracket to the steering knuckle. Estimated value.
10

Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the wheel speed sensor to the steering knuckle. Estimated value.

Rear Suspension

Torque specifications for the rear suspension components of a 2017-Present Audi Q5. These components are essential for vehicle handling, stability, and safety.

1

Upper Control Arm to Chassis Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the upper control arm to the chassis.
2

Upper Control Arm to Rear Hub Carrier Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the upper control arm to the rear hub carrier.
3

Lower Control Arm to Chassis Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the lower control arm to the subframe. A high-load fastener.
4

Lower Control Arm to Rear Hub Carrier Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
66 ft-lbs (90 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the lower control arm to the rear hub carrier.
5

Rear Sway Bar Link to Control Arm Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the sway bar link to the control arm.
6

Rear Sway Bar Link to Sway Bar Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the sway bar link to the sway bar.
7

Rear Strut to Rear Hub Carrier Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the rear strut to the rear hub carrier. A critical load-bearing connection.
8

Rear Strut Upper Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the top of the rear strut assembly to the chassis. Estimated value.
9

Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
81 ft-lbs (110 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear brake caliper bracket to the rear hub carrier. Estimated value.
10

Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear wheel speed sensor. Estimated value.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Why is it important to use the correct torque specifications for suspension bolts?

Using the correct torque is crucial for the structural integrity and safety of your vehicle's suspension. Over-tightening can stretch or weaken bolts, leading to failure, while under-tightening can cause components to loosen, resulting in instability and potential accidents. Correct torque ensures proper clamping force, preventing movement and maintaining the designed suspension geometry. For example, if you under-torque a control arm bolt, the arm could shift, causing poor handling and rapid tire wear; over-torquing it could snap the bolt when hitting a pothole.

Q2

Should I use new bolts when working on the suspension?

It's highly recommended to replace certain bolts, especially those that are torque-to-yield (TTY) or single-use fasteners, when disassembling suspension components. TTY bolts are designed to stretch slightly when torqued to spec, and they should not be reused. Reusing them may lead to inaccurate torque and could result in fastener failure. For example, many of the large bolts securing the subframe are TTY and must be replaced to ensure proper and safe function.

Q3

What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?

Using a torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening suspension bolts. While some may attempt to tighten bolts 'by feel,' this is highly unreliable. Without a torque wrench, you cannot guarantee the correct clamping force, increasing the risk of component failure, poor handling, and potential accidents. If you don't own one, consider renting or borrowing one; or have a qualified technician do the work for you.

Q4

What are the symptoms of loose suspension bolts?

Symptoms of loose suspension bolts can include clunking noises, especially when going over bumps or turning, wandering steering, uneven tire wear, poor handling, and overall vehicle instability. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should inspect your vehicle promptly. The issue could range from a recently worked-on, under-torqued component to a part that is damaged and should be replaced.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/2 inch Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring torque in the specified range for suspension bolts.

  • Click-type mechanism
  • Precise torque settings
  • 1/2 inch drive size
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring torque in the specified range for smaller suspension bolts.

  • Click-type mechanism
  • Precise torque settings
  • 3/8 inch drive size
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive socket set with various metric sizes required for suspension bolts.

  • Deep and standard sockets
  • Various metric sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Allen/Hex Key Set (Metric)

A set of metric Allen keys or hex sockets for bolts with hex heads.

  • Various metric sizes
  • Durable construction
  • Ball-end options for angled access
Learn more

Pry Bar

Used for aligning suspension components during installation.

  • Various sizes available
  • Durable construction
  • Angled and straight options
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Strut/Shock Absorber Replacement

Procedure for removing and installing the front strut/shock absorber on a 2017-Present Audi Q5, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Disconnect the ABS sensor and any other necessary wires/hoses.
  • Support the lower control arm with a jack.
  • Remove the sway bar link.
  • Unbolt the lower strut mount bolts.
  • Remove the upper strut mounting nuts.
  • Remove the old strut/shock assembly.
  • Install the new strut/shock assembly, and ensure proper alignment.
  • Install and torque the upper mounting nuts to specifications.
  • Install and torque the lower mounting bolts to specifications.
  • Reconnect the sway bar link.
  • Reconnect the ABS sensor and other wires/hoses.
  • Remove jack support, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts.
View full procedure

Rear Shock Absorber Replacement

Procedure for removing and installing the rear shock absorber on a 2017-Present Audi Q5, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Access the shock absorber mounts.
  • Support the lower control arm with a jack.
  • Remove the lower mounting bolt of the shock absorber.
  • Remove the upper shock absorber mounting bolt(s).
  • Remove the old shock absorber.
  • Install the new shock absorber, and ensure proper alignment.
  • Install and torque the upper mounting bolt(s) to specifications.
  • Install and torque the lower mounting bolt to specifications.
  • Remove jack support, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts.
View full procedure

Front Lower Control Arm Replacement

Procedure for removing and installing the front lower control arm on a 2017-Present Audi Q5, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Disconnect the ABS sensor and any other necessary wires/hoses.
  • Support the lower control arm with a jack.
  • Remove the ball joint nut/bolt.
  • Remove the inner control arm bolts from the frame.
  • Remove the old control arm.
  • Install the new control arm, and ensure proper alignment.
  • Install and torque the inner control arm bolts to specifications.
  • Install and torque the ball joint nut/bolt to specifications.
  • Reconnect the ABS sensor and other wires/hoses.
  • Remove jack support, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts.
View full procedure

Rear Upper Control Arm Replacement

Procedure for removing and installing the rear upper control arm on a 2017-Present Audi Q5, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Support the lower control arm with a jack.
  • Remove the outer control arm bolt from the knuckle.
  • Remove the inner control arm bolts from the frame.
  • Remove the old control arm.
  • Install the new control arm, and ensure proper alignment.
  • Install and torque the inner control arm bolts to specifications.
  • Install and torque the outer control arm bolt to specifications.
  • Remove jack support, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Torque Check After Alignment

2020-05-15

This bulletin addresses the importance of re-checking suspension bolt torque after completing a wheel alignment.

2017-2020 Audi Q5

Resolution: Always re-torque all suspension bolts to their specified torque settings after a wheel alignment. Failure to do so may result in premature component wear or misalignment issues. Use a calibrated torque wrench.

Front Lower Control Arm Bolt Corrosion

2021-11-20

This bulletin pertains to corrosion issues found on the front lower control arm bolts in specific regions.

2017-2021 Audi Q5

Resolution: Inspect front lower control arm bolts for corrosion. If corrosion is present, replace the bolts with new bolts. Ensure proper torque and thread lubrication with specified anti-seize lubricant. Follow torque specifications and proper procedures.

Rear Suspension Noise After Repair

2022-08-10

Addresses instances of noise emanating from the rear suspension following service work, which may be related to improperly torqued components.

2017-2022 Audi Q5

Resolution: If noise from the rear suspension is noted after repair, check that all bolts were tightened using the correct procedure and torque specification. Always use a calibrated torque wrench. Pay specific attention to the shock absorber and upper control arm hardware.

About the Author

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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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