Removing and installing upper transverse link — AUDI

🧭 Before you start

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

• Renewed: bolts

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• Using a felt-tip pen or similar, mark position of eccentric washer (2) on wheel bearing housing.
• Renew bolts and self-locking nuts.

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📋 Procedure

1. Before starting work, measure distance (a) from centre of wheel to lower edge of wheel housing with vehicle standing on its wheels.
2. Raise vehicle on lifting platform.
3. Remove wheels.
4. Remove subframe (vehicles with front-wheel drive ).
5. Remove subframe (vehicles with four-wheel drive ).

6. Using a felt-tip pen or similar, mark position of eccentric washer (2) on wheel bearing housing.
7. Unscrew bolt connections (1) and (2).
8. Take out upper transverse link (3). [Note: Renew bolts and self-locking nuts.]
9. Bolt upper transverse link (3) loosely to subframe at mounting (1).
10. Lay straightedge or straight bar (1) flat on upper transverse links (arrows).
11. Position upper transverse link (2) so dimension a = 8 mm ± 1 mm is attained between straight edge (1) and burr of upper transverse link (2).
12. Secure upper transverse link (3) to subframe in this position.
13. Attach wheel bearing housing to transverse link and tighten new nut to 20 Nm. Note position of eccentric washer (2). — 20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
14. Install subframe (vehicles with front-wheel drive ).
15. Install subframe (vehicles with four-wheel drive ).
16. Loosen bolt connection (1).
17. Lift suspension to unladen position and tighten bolt connection (1).
18. Secure wheel .
19. Check and adjust wheel alignment .

🎬 Video walkthrough

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

How to change rear suspension arm / rear control arm on AUDI A4 B8 Saloon

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