Audi Audi S4 2009-2016 Suspension Specifications
Audi Audi S4 2009-2016

Audi Audi S4 2009-2016 Suspension Specifications

Discover detailed suspension specifications for the 2009-2016 Audi S4 (B8). Includes spring rates, dampers, stabilizer bars, and geometry for maintenance, repair, and upgrades.

Updated

Audi S4 Suspension Specifications (2009-2016) Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the suspension system of the 2009-2016 Audi S4. It covers key components, measurements, and maintenance guidelines. Use this guide to understand the suspension setup, identify components, and perform routine maintenance. Navigate through the sections for comprehensive details or refer to the quick reference for key specifications.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords related to the suspension component or specification you are looking for. Ensure your search terms are specific for accurate results.

Navigate through the document by exploring the sections and subsections. Each major section focuses on a specific aspect of the suspension system, with detailed subsections providing in-depth information. Use the quick reference section for a concise overview of key specifications.

Key Specifications

Ride Height (unladen)

120 mm (front), 130 mm (rear)

Spring Rate (Front)

120 N/mm

Spring Rate (Rear)

100 N/mm

Damper Type

Gas-filled, twin-tube

Suspension Travel (Front)

120 mm

Available Specifications

Overview of Suspension System

The Audi S4 features a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance performance and comfort. This section provides an overview of the key components and technologies used in the suspension setup.

Key Components
  • Adaptive Air Suspension (optional)
  • Multi-link front and rear suspension
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)
  • Electronic damping control
  • Load-leveling rear suspension
Technical Features
  • Variable damping settings
  • Automatic ride height adjustment
  • Anti-roll bars for reduced body lean
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Progressive-rate springs

Front Suspension Specifications

The front suspension of the Audi S4 is designed for precise handling and stability. This section details the technical specifications and components of the front suspension system.

Spring and Damper
  • Spring rate: 120 N/mm (front)
  • Damper type: Gas-filled, twin-tube
  • Spring type: Progressive-rate coil springs
  • Damper adjustment: Electronic control
  • Travel: 120 mm (front)
Anti-Roll Bars
  • Front anti-roll bar diameter: 25 mm
  • Material: High-strength steel
  • Mounting: Bushing-type
  • Adjustability: Fixed rate
  • Function: Reduces body roll during cornering

Rear Suspension Specifications

The rear suspension is optimized for comfort and traction. This section provides detailed specifications for the rear suspension components.

Spring and Damper
  • Spring rate: 100 N/mm (rear)
  • Damper type: Gas-filled, twin-tube
  • Spring type: Progressive-rate coil springs
  • Damper adjustment: Electronic control
  • Travel: 130 mm (rear)
Anti-Roll Bars
  • Rear anti-roll bar diameter: 22 mm
  • Material: High-strength steel
  • Mounting: Bushing-type
  • Adjustability: Fixed rate
  • Function: Enhances stability and reduces sway

Suspension Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of the suspension system. This section outlines key maintenance tasks and intervals.

Service Intervals
  • Inspect suspension components every 15,000 miles
  • Replace shock absorbers every 50,000 miles or as needed
  • Check and top up hydraulic fluid every 30,000 miles
  • Inspect anti-roll bar links every 10,000 miles
  • Align wheels annually or after any suspension modification
Inspection Points
  • Check for signs of wear on bushings
  • Inspect springs for damage or sagging
  • Look for fluid leaks from dampers
  • Check anti-roll bar links for play
  • Verify proper ride height
Replacement Guidelines
  • Replace springs if sagging or damaged
  • Replace dampers if leaking or showing reduced performance
  • Replace anti-roll bar links if loose or worn
  • Replace bushings if cracked or worn
  • Replace any component showing signs of fatigue or damage

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Sport-tuned independent suspension
Configuration
Multi-link front and rear
Platform
MLB (Modular Longitudinal Matrix) platform
Material
Aluminum links and steel stabilizers
Location
Front and rear axle

Dimensions

Front Spring Rate
112 N/mm (637 lbs/in)
Rear Spring Rate
100 N/mm (560 lbs/in)
Front Damper Diameter
50 mm (1.97 in)
Rear Damper Diameter
48 mm (1.89 in)
Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter
30 mm (1.18 in)
Rear Stabilizer Bar Diameter
21 mm (0.83 in)
Ride Height
120 mm (4.72 in) front, 130 mm (5.12 in) rear
Track Width
1,585 mm (62.4 in) front, 1,575 mm (62 in) rear

Materials

Suspension Links
Forged aluminum alloy
Stabilizer Bars
High-strength steel
Springs
High-strength steel with protective coating
Subframe
Aluminum alloy
Bushings
Hydraulic rubber bushings
Dampers
Steel body with internal valving

Features

Adaptive Damping
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)
  • Adjustable damping modes
  • Electronic damper control
Ride Height Adjustment
  • Manual height adjustment
  • Optional air suspension
  • Variable ride height control
Stabilizer Bars
  • Front and rear anti-roll bars
  • Variable stabilizer control
  • Hydraulic stabilizer links
Camber Control
  • Camber compensation
  • Anti-dive geometry
  • Anti-squat geometry
Suspension Mounts
  • Reinforced mounting points
  • Isolated subframe mounts
  • Vibration-dampening bushings

Safety Features

Stability Control integration
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
  • Anti-roll stabilization
  • Load-sensing valve
Crash Structure
  • Crash-optimized subframe design
  • Energy-absorbing materials
  • Reinforced control arms
Suspension Protection
  • Wheel impact protection
  • Steering gear protection
  • Anti-corrosion coating

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic insulation
  • Isolated suspension mounts
  • Damped subframe
Ride Quality
  • Progressive spring rate
  • Adaptive damping control
  • Hydraulic bushings
Adjustability
  • Manual ride height adjustment
  • Optional adaptive suspension
  • Driver-selectable modes
Travel
  • 140 mm (5.51 in) front suspension travel
  • 135 mm (5.31 in) rear suspension travel
  • Variable travel depending on load

Accessories

Suspension Kits
  • Lowering springs
  • Performance dampers
  • Adjustable coilovers
Anti Roll Bars
  • Upgraded stabilizer bars
  • Adjustable sway bars
  • High-performance bar links
Air Suspension
  • Optional air suspension kit
  • Electronic air leveling
  • Ride height control module

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • Inspect suspension components
  • Check damper performance
  • Replace stabilizer links if worn
  • Lubricate suspension bushings
  • Check ride height and adjust if necessary
Maintenance Notes
  • Use genuine replacement parts
  • Inspect for corrosion or damage
  • Check electronic system functionality

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 48,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: All suspension components
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Suspension components related to powertrain
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: 12 years
Years: Unlimited miles
Coverage: Perforation of suspension components
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 3,000 to 30,000 miles
Years: 1 to 5 years
Coverage: Scheduled maintenance services

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG, Ingolstadt, Germany
Manufacturing Process
  • Forging of suspension links
  • CNC machining of critical components
  • Robotized welding of subframes
  • Surface coating and treatment
Quality Control
inspection: Dimensional checks, Material strength tests, Functional testing
Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949, VDA 6.1
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
  • Reduced emissions production
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 100,000 units
Production Cycle: Approx. 20 hours per unit
Defect Rate: Less than 1%
Supplier Network: Global network of approved suppliers

Service Information for suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

12,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect suspension components for wear or damage
  • Check damper performance and response
  • Inspect stabilizer links and bushings
  • Lubricate suspension joints
  • Check ride height and adjust if necessary

Ensure all components are clean and free of debris.

24,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace stabilizer links if worn
  • Inspect and replace damper seals if necessary
  • Check anti-roll bar connections
  • Inspect subframe mounts for wear
  • Check suspension alignment

Recommended to use genuine Audi parts for replacements.

36,000 miles
36 months
  • Replace dampers if showing signs of wear
  • Inspect and replace suspension bushings
  • Check spring health and rate
  • Inspect stabilizer bar end links
  • Perform full suspension alignment

Major service interval - critical for maintaining performance and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the suspension system for the 2009-2016 Audi S4?

The 2009-2016 Audi S4 features a sport-tuned suspension system designed for performance and handling. It includes front MacPherson strut suspension and rear trapezoidal-link suspension with anti-roll bars. The system is compatible with 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels and is optimized for dynamic driving. The front spring rate is approximately 140 N/mm, and the rear is around 120 N/mm, providing a balanced ride and handling characteristic.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the suspension system?

Regular suspension maintenance for the 2009-2016 Audi S4 includes inspecting control arms, bushings, and ball joints every 15,000 miles. Shock absorbers and struts should be replaced every 50,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Tire alignment should be checked every 6 months or after any suspension component replacement. Lubricate suspension components annually and ensure proper tire pressure is maintained.

Q3

How do I replace a worn-out suspension component?

To replace a suspension component on the 2009-2016 Audi S4, start by safely lifting the vehicle and removing the wheel. Use specialized tools like a spring compressor for struts or shocks. Remove the mounting bolts and carefully extract the old component. Install the new part, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications. Reassemble in the reverse order and perform a wheel alignment afterward. Always refer to the service manual for specific instructions.

Q4

What are common issues with the suspension system?

Common issues with the 2009-2016 Audi S4 suspension include worn-out control arms, loose or damaged bushings, and leaking shock absorbers. Symptoms may include clunking noises, uneven tire wear, or a bouncy ride. Inspect the suspension components regularly and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly. If you notice excessive play or fluid leakage, address the issue immediately to avoid further damage.

Q5

How can I optimize the suspension for better performance?

To optimize the suspension for better performance on the 2009-2016 Audi S4, consider upgrading to stiffer coilovers or performance sway bars. Adjust the damping settings to your driving style, with firmer settings for track use and softer settings for daily driving. Ensure proper tire alignment with performance-oriented settings, such as increased negative camber for cornering stability. Additionally, maintain proper ride height and consider lightweight suspension components for improved handling.

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 S4 Suspension Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and replacement procedures for the 2009-2016 Audi S4.

Technical Bulletin: Suspension Component Updates

Coming Soon

Official Audi technical bulletin detailing updates and improvements for suspension components in the 2009-2016 S4 models.

Audi S4 Suspension Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of genuine and aftermarket suspension parts compatible with the 2009-2016 Audi S4.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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