A Guide to Steering Tie Rod End Replacement for the 2014-2018 Audi A5 Quattro
Address steering issues on your A5 Quattro by understanding symptoms and choosing the right replacement tie rod end.
- Key symptoms of failure include loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
- A professional wheel alignment is mandatory immediately after replacing a tie rod end to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire wear.
- For best results, choose OE-supplier brands like TRW or Delphi. Replace tie rods in pairs for balanced performance.
- No specific recalls or TSBs exist for tie rod failure on this model; issues are due to standard wear.
Is Your Audi A5's Steering Feeling Off?
A worn steering tie rod end on a 2014-2018 Audi A5 Quattro can make the car feel unpredictable. Because this part is constantly moving under load, the internal socket wears out over time. This creates looseness, or "play," in the steering system. Ignoring the symptoms is not just a comfort issue; it's a significant safety concern, as complete failure means a total loss of steering control on that wheel.
Symptoms of a Failing Tie Rod End
- Loose Steering Feel: A feeling of looseness or excessive play in the steering wheel. You might turn the wheel slightly before the car actually responds. 🎬 Watch: How to tell if your tie rod is bad
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shimmy or vibration in the steering wheel that often gets worse as you increase speed or go around corners.
- Clunking or Popping Noises: Audible clunks, pops, or knocking sounds from the front of the car, especially when turning at low speeds or driving over bumps.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A worn tie rod end throws off the wheel alignment, causing the inside or outside edge of your tires to wear down much faster than the rest of the tread.
Immediate Wheel Alignment Required
Replacing a tie rod end will always change your vehicle's wheel alignment. You must have a professional four-wheel alignment performed immediately after installation. Skipping this step will result in poor handling, a crooked steering wheel, and rapid, uneven tire wear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
For the Audi A5 Quattro, several aftermarket brands are available. They can be grouped into tiers based on general quality, reputation in owner forums, and whether they are original equipment (OE) suppliers.
Tier 1: OE 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 OE supplier for many European vehicles, including Audi. Choosing TRW is often the closest you can get to buying a genuine Audi part without the dealership price tag. While some very old forum posts mention quality concerns, the modern consensus is that they are a top-tier choice for suspension components.
- Delphi: Delphi is another major OE supplier with a strong reputation for quality. While sometimes more associated with domestic brands, their steering and suspension parts are widely considered reliable for European applications as well.
- Moog: Moog has a long-standing reputation in the aftermarket for building robust, durable chassis parts, often with design improvements over the factory originals like all-metal construction.
Tier 2: Standard Aftermarket
These brands offer a good balance of price and quality. They are a solid choice for daily driving and are often easier to find at local auto parts stores.
- Mevotech: Often cited as a leading aftermarket brand, Mevotech produces a wide range of chassis parts that are considered a dependable alternative to premium brands.
- Dorman: Dorman has a mixed reputation. While some of their electronic parts receive criticism, their mechanical components like suspension parts are generally seen as acceptable, budget-friendly replacements that get the job done.
Tier 3: Economy & Variable Quality
These brands compete on price, but quality can be inconsistent. They can be a viable option for a tight budget, but may not have the same lifespan as higher-tier parts.
- Beck Arnley: Beck Arnley is primarily a re-boxer of parts from other manufacturers. You might receive a high-quality, German-made OE part, or you might get a lower-grade part from China. The quality is a gamble, which is reflected in the price.
- Suspensia & Vaico: These are typically economy-focused brands. They meet the basic need but may use less robust materials, potentially leading to a shorter service life compared to premium options.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part (e.g., Lemforder) | $65 - $90 per side |
| New Aftermarket Part | $24 - $87 per side |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $225 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $120 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $250 - $500+ (per side, including alignment) |
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and technical forums show no specific recalls or common Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for premature or widespread failure of the steering tie rod ends on the 2014-2018 Audi A5 Quattro. Failures that do occur are typically the result of normal wear and tear from mileage and road conditions.
Pro Tip: Check the Inner Tie Rods
Your A5 has both outer and inner tie rod ends. The outer ends fail much more frequently. However, when you have the car inspected, ask the mechanic to check the condition of the inner tie rods as well. Replacing both at the same time, if needed, can save you money on labor and the cost of a second alignment down the road.
🎬 Watch: How to replace both outer and inner tie rodsFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to replace tie rod ends in pairs?
It is highly recommended. Tie rod ends on both sides of the car experience the same amount of wear. If one has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced steering and saves you from having to do the job—and pay for another alignment—in the near future.
What happens if I don't get a wheel alignment after replacement?
Your car's steering will be off, potentially pulling to one side. The steering wheel may not be straight when you're driving straight. Most importantly, the incorrect alignment will cause your tires to wear out extremely quickly and unevenly, costing you much more in the long run than the alignment itself.
Is this a good DIY project for a home mechanic?
Replacing an outer tie rod end is possible for an experienced DIYer. It requires safely lifting the car, basic hand tools, and a special tool called a tie rod puller or separator to pop the joint out of the steering knuckle. However, you must factor in the non-negotiable trip to a professional alignment shop immediately after you are finished. For many, having a shop do the entire job is more efficient.
🎬 See this walkthrough on removing the tie rod endMy steering feels notchy or stiff, not loose. Is it the tie rod?
Probably not. A loose, clunking tie rod causes play. A notchy or stiff feeling in the steering, especially in one spot, is more often related to a binding universal joint in the steering shaft or an issue with the power steering rack itself.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8K0422817B 8K0422818B
The Audi A5 Quattro uses separate left and right outer tie rod ends. They connect to the inner tie rod via a threaded shaft with a jam nut for toe adjustment and attach to the steering knuckle with a tapered stud and nut. No diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are associated with this mechanical part.
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 Quattro:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A5's Steering Feeling Off?
- Symptoms of a Failing Tie Rod End
- Immediate Wheel Alignment Required
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
- Tier 1: OE Supplier & Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Standard Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy & Variable Quality
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- Pro Tip: Check the Inner Tie Rods
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off