Removing and installing shock absorber fork — AUDI

🧭 Before you start

Fits: Audi A5 (8T, 2007–2016), Audi A5 Cabriolet (8F), Audi A4 B8 (8K, 2007–2015)

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• Unscrew nut (1) on joint pin (2) of track rod ball joint until it is flush with end of thread. Counterhold if necessary when loosening.
• To remove bolt (1), turn steering rack fully to left or right depending on which side of the vehicle you are working on.
• Disregard item (2).
• If, on vehicles with electronic damping control, the vehicle level sender has been removed and refitted or the linkage detached, the reference position must be re-adapted .
• If the reference position has been re-adapted on vehicles with lane departure warning, the lane departure warning control unit J759 must be recalibrated .

📋 Procedure

1. Remove wheel.
2. Unscrew nuts (1) and detach cover (2).
3. Remove noise insulation General body repairs, exterior66Noise insulation; Exploded view - noise insulation.
4. On vehicles with vehicle level sender, unscrew nut (2) and move linkage clear.
5. Detach bolt connections (1) and (2).

6. Take out coupling rod (3).
7. Detach bolt connections (1) and (3).
8. Take out coupling rod (2).
9. Unscrew nut (1) on joint pin (2) of track rod ball joint until it is flush with end of thread. Counterhold if necessary when loosening.
10. Press track rod ball joint off wheel bearing housing using ball joint puller T40010 A. Then remove nut.
11. Detach bolt connection (3).
12. Detach bolted connection (1), guide out track control link and swivel forwards. [Note: To remove bolt (1), turn steering rack fully to left or right depending on which side of the vehicle you are working on.]
13. Detach bolt connection (1).
14. Insert spreader3424 in slot in shock absorber fork.
15. Turn ratchet handle through 90° and pull ratchet handle off spreader3424.
16. Pull shock absorber fork (1) downwards off shock absorber tube and remove. [Note: Disregard item (2).]
17. Install coupling rod . [Note: Version 1: When fitting, make sure that T-bolt (arrow) engages in groove of shock absorber fork.Version 2: When fitting, make sure that pin (1) engages in groove (2) of shock absorber fork.Bonded rubber bushes can only be turned to a limited extent. The suspension mountings must therefore only be tightened when the suspension is in the unladen position or reference position.]
18. Lift suspension to unladen position Lifting suspension to unladen position on vehicles with coil springs (front axle).
19. On vehicles with automatic headlight range control, perform basic setting of headlights Electrical system94Headlights; Adjusting headlights.
20. If, on vehicles with electronic damping control, the vehicle level sender has been removed and refitted or the linkage detached, the reference position must be re-adapted .
21. If the reference position has been re-adapted on vehicles with lane departure warning, the lane departure warning control unit J759 must be recalibrated .
22. Secure wheel .
23. Check and adjust wheel alignment as required, see chart .

🎬 Video walkthrough

Independent video tutorial by AUTODOC (YouTube) — a helpful visual companion to the steps above.

How to change rear shock absorber on AUDI A4 B8 Saloon

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