A Guide to Steering Tie Rod Ends for the 2008-2017 Audi A5
Restore your A5's precise steering feel by understanding the symptoms of failure and how to choose the right replacement part.
- A four-wheel alignment is mandatory immediately after replacing a tie rod end to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire wear.
- Symptoms of failure include loose steering, clunking noises when turning, steering wheel vibration, and uneven tire wear.
- For best results and to maintain the original steering feel, choose an OEM-supplier brand like TRW, Delphi, or a premium aftermarket brand like Moog.
- It is highly recommended to replace tie rod ends in pairs (left and right) for balanced steering performance and safety.
Is Your Audi A5's Steering Feeling Off?
A worn steering tie rod end on a 2008-2017 Audi A5 can make the car feel unpredictable and loose. Because this part is a joint that is constantly moving under load, it wears out over time. This wear creates looseness, or "play," in the steering system. Ignoring the symptoms is not just a matter of comfort; it's a significant safety concern, as a complete failure means a total loss of steering control on that wheel.
Immediate Wheel Alignment Required
You must get a professional four-wheel alignment immediately after installing a new tie rod end. Skipping this step will cause a crooked steering wheel, poor handling, and will quickly destroy your tires through uneven wear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
For the Audi A5, you don't always need to buy the original part from the dealer to get great quality. Many aftermarket brands offer excellent parts, sometimes from the same factories that make the original components. Here is a breakdown of the available brands to help you choose.
Tier 1: OEM Supplier & Premium Aftermarket
These brands are known for providing original parts to Audi or for having a reputation for quality that meets or exceeds OEM standards. They are the top choice for longevity and a perfect fit.
- TRW Parts: TRW is a well-known Original Equipment (OE) supplier for many European vehicles, including Audi. Choosing TRW is often the closest you can get to a genuine Audi part without the dealership price. They are widely considered a top-tier choice.
- Delphi: Another major OE supplier, Delphi has a strong reputation for quality steering and suspension parts suitable for European cars.
- Moog: Moog has a long-standing reputation for building robust chassis parts, often with improvements over the factory design, such as all-metal construction and greaseable fittings for longer life.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
These brands offer a good balance of quality and value and are a solid choice for most owners.
- Mevotech: Mevotech is known for engineering durable parts that are easy to install. They offer different lines, with their premium options being a reliable choice.
- Vaico: Vaico is a German brand that supplies a wide range of aftermarket parts, often seen as a reliable alternative to OEM parts.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
These brands are typically the most affordable but may not offer the same longevity or precise fit as higher-tier options.
- Dorman: Dorman provides a wide array of aftermarket solutions and can be a budget-friendly option.
- Suspensia: This brand offers an economical choice for repairs where budget is the primary concern.
Cost of Replacing an Audi A5 Tie Rod End
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Tie Rod End (Single) | $24 - $70 |
| New OEM Tie Rod End (Single) | $150 - $250 |
| Shop Labor (including alignment) | $250 - $450 |
| Total Professional Replacement (One Side) | $275 - $520 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary based on location, the specific part chosen, and whether inner or outer tie rods are replaced.
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
For the 2008-2017 Audi A5, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA regarding premature steering tie rod end failure. Any failures are typically due to normal wear and tear from mileage and road conditions. Always check for recalls using your vehicle's specific VIN on the NHTSA website.
Common Ordering Mistake
Your A5 has both inner and outer tie rod ends on each side. The outer tie rod end is the most common part to fail. Be sure to correctly identify which part you need before ordering. If one is worn, inspect the other, as replacing them at the same time can save on future labor and alignment costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to replace tie rod ends in pairs?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Tie rods on both sides of the car wear at a similar rate. If one has failed, the other is likely worn as well. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced steering and safety, and it saves you from paying for a second alignment job in the near future.
Is a special tool required for this job?
Yes, you will likely need a tie rod end puller (or separator) to safely pop the joint out of the steering knuckle without damaging other components. Attempting to use a hammer can cause damage. If you are replacing the inner tie rod, a specific inner tie rod tool will also be needed.
What's the difference between inner and outer tie rods?
The inner tie rod connects directly to the steering rack and is covered by a flexible rubber boot. The outer tie rod connects the inner tie rod to the steering knuckle at the wheel. Outer tie rods are more commonly replaced.
My steering feels stiff, not loose. Is it the tie rod?
Probably not. A worn, loose tie rod causes play and clunking noises. A stiff or binding feeling when turning is more often caused by a failing steering shaft U-joint or a problem with the steering rack itself.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8K0422817B 8K0422818B
The Audi A5 uses a sealed, non-greaseable outer tie rod end with a tapered stud that connects to the aluminum steering knuckle. Replacement requires a special puller tool to separate the tapered joint.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi A5:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A5's Steering Feeling Off?
- Immediate Wheel Alignment Required
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
- Tier 1: OEM Supplier & Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy Brands
- Cost of Replacing an Audi A5 Tie Rod End
- Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
- Common Ordering Mistake
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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