Everything You Need to Know About Audi Brake Maintenance in 2025

Owning an Audi is all about experiencing top-tier performance and luxury, but even the best engineering needs care to keep running smoothly. One of the most critical aspects of your ride quality and handling is the suspension system. Whether you’re looking to maintain it for long-term vehicle reliability or upgrade it for sharper performance, knowing how to keep your Audi’s suspension in top shape is key.

No suspension system lasts forever, and over time, even well-built Audi components can develop issues. Here are some of the most frequent problems and what you can do about them:

If you notice excessive vibrations, uneven tire wear, or a clunking noise when going over bumps, the culprit might be deteriorating control arm bushings. These rubber components absorb shocks and keep your wheels aligned, but they wear down with age. Replacing them with high-quality OEM or polyurethane bushings can restore tight handling and improve longevity.

Feel like your ride is suddenly rougher or bouncier than usual? Leaking shocks or struts could be to blame. If you see oil or damp spots around these components, it’s time to replace them. Investing in premium shocks, such as Bilstein or Koni replacements, can offer a firmer yet comfortable ride.

Many higher-end Audi models, like the A8 and Q7, come equipped with air suspension for superior ride quality. While fantastic when working properly, these systems are prone to sagging due to air leaks or failing compressors. If your Audi Q5 maintenance includes air suspension, watch for signs that your vehicle appears to be sitting lower than usual or if you hear the compressor running constantly, as a leak in the air springs or a failing compressor might be the issue. Regular inspections can help catch minor leaks before they turn into costly repairs.

If your steering feels sloppy or unpredictable, worn tie rods or ball joints could be at fault. These crucial components connect your wheels to the steering mechanism and can wear out over time. Ignoring them not only makes for poor driving dynamics but can also lead to dangerous handling issues. Replacing them before they fail completely keeps your Audi sharp and responsive on the road.

If you’re the type who enjoys spirited driving, upgrading your Audi’s suspension can make a world of difference. Factory suspension is designed for a balance of comfort and performance, but if you lean more toward precision handling, there’s plenty of room for improvement.

Lowering springs can drop the ride height for an aggressive stance while keeping costs relatively low. However, for true adjustability and improved cornering, coilovers are the way to go. Brands like KW and Öhlins offer adjustable damping and height settings, giving you control over how firm or soft your ride feels.

One of the simplest yet most effective upgrades is a thicker sway bar. It helps keep your Audi flat through corners by reducing body roll. Upgrading to a performance sway bar set from companies like H&R can make your Audi feel more planted, especially during high-speed turns.

Stock rubber bushings offer a smooth ride but tend to degrade over time. Swapping them for polyurethane upgrades reduces flex and sharpens handling. While they might transmit a little more road noise, the improved steering response makes it a worthwhile trade-off.

Air suspension is the magic behind Audi’s ultra-smooth ride on models like the A8, RS7, and certain Q-series SUVs. Instead of traditional coil springs, your Audi might use air springs filled with high-pressure air, allowing for height adjustability and superior shock absorption.

• Adjustable Ride Height: Many Audi models allow drivers to raise or lower the car based on driving conditions.
• Superior Comfort: Air springs can adapt to road surfaces, making long journeys incredibly smooth.
• Improved Load Handling: Vehicles like the Audi Q7 use air suspension to maintain ride height even when carrying heavy cargo or towing.

While air suspension offers plenty of benefits, it’s not without its faults. The most common failure points include:
– Air leaks in the lines or springs – Leading to a sagging suspension.
– Compressor failure – Resulting in the inability to maintain height.
– Sensor malfunctions – Causing the system to misadjust heights.

To prevent costly repairs, regularly inspect air lines for leaks, clean ride height sensors, and avoid excessive strain on the system. If components start failing, aftermarket replacements from companies like Arnott or refurbishing the compressor can be practical solutions.

Keeping your Audi’s suspension running smoothly requires more than just waiting for issues to crop up. Stay ahead with these simple but effective maintenance procedures:

• Inspect suspension components regularly – Check for cracks, leaks, or worn parts every oil change.
• Rotate and align your tires – Uneven wear can hint at suspension issues, and proper alignment prevents unnecessary strain.
• Check for leaks in shocks and struts – A little seepage might be okay, but heavy leaks mean replacement is due.
• Listen for unusual noises – Clunks, squeaks, and rattles often indicate something is loose or worn out.
• Keep air suspension filters and compressors clean – Dirt buildup can shorten the system’s lifespan.

Whether you’re preserving your Audi’s luxurious ride or fine-tuning it for a sharper response, maintaining and upgrading your suspension is one of the best investments you can make. A well-kept suspension system doesn’t just enhance comfort. It also ensures safety, longevity, and driving pleasure.

If you’ve recently upgraded or repaired your Audi’s suspension, share your experience in the comments! What worked best for you?