Lowered SQ5 Suspension Questions

[krwalkman]

For those of you running your SQ5 lowered can you detail your setup? We simply put KW Height Adjustable springs on the SQ and it was fine at first, but for the last few months the ride has become more and more rough. The control arm bushings have been cracking and it sounds like it's time to replace those.

I'm looking for recommendations on shocks to install with the HAS, and then if we should get adjustable control arms (and where to get them) or if we should just replace bushings.

Thanks in advance.

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[SQive]

Yes, you should have replaced your shocks when your ride-height changed. The stock ones weren't designed to operate in that lower range. I went with coil-overs, so everything was matched already.

[VroomVroom]

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...spension-setup

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ing-this-setup

There are other threads as well.

Unfortunately the KW HAS don't work with Bilstein shocks. I don't recall reading about any aftermarket shock that does. Honestly, I've never quite understood the concept of adjustable springs. By design, springs are intended to compress and rebound based on a set of (reasonably) static parameters. If you pivot that baseline, you change the dynamics of the spring. Anyway, if ride quality is a premium consideration, I'd recommend a better setup. Some folks like the KW Street Comfort set. Others also speak very highly of the Bilstein PSS10 set. FWIW, I'm very happy with my H&R/Bilstein combo, which was significantly cheaper than the other two sets.

You shouldn't need to touch the control arms.

[djn876]

Bushings aren't going to find the ride, your shocks are probably close to worn out, due to reasons stated above. This happens almost every time when the vehicle is lowered on springs only.

As stated, HAS do not work with pretty much anything but stock.

I have Bilstein/h&r as well and love it. The cost of that combo isnt much more than the HAS kit.

If the CA cracks are superficial they don't need to get done. If the bushing can rotate I. The arm, the car doesn't track well on the road, or your camber is off, those would indicate replacement is required. Or of course if you are heading them banging around. Based on what you said and your mods though, your shocks are probably just toast.

[krwalkman]

I mean, we knew that, but we did it anyways to see what would happen with high hopes. Now that we know, time to upgrade :)

[krwalkman]

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...spension-setup

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ing-this-setup

There are other threads as well.

Unfortunately the KW HAS don't work with Bilstein shocks. I don't recall reading about any aftermarket shock that does. Honestly, I've never quite understood the concept of adjustable springs. By design, springs are intended to compress and rebound based on a set of (reasonably) static parameters. If you pivot that baseline, you change the dynamics of the spring. Anyway, if ride quality is a premium consideration, I'd recommend a better setup. Some folks like the KW Street Comfort set. Others also speak very highly of the Bilstein PSS10 set. FWIW, I'm very happy with my H&R/Bilstein combo, which was significantly cheaper than the other two sets.

You shouldn't need to touch the control arms.

Thanks Vroom Vroom, I actually screenshot your setup a few months ago and wanted to get the bilsteins to go with the HAS, but now I know that does not work, so I am glad I posted this.

I am currently torn between a coilover setup (PSS10s or KW V1) and your setup. Good to know on the control arms. I will probably just replace the bushings to be safe too.

Looking through those posts there are good reviews both ways. I like the idea of saving some money, but realistically the KW v1s aren't that much.

[krwalkman]

Bushings aren't going to find the ride, your shocks are probably close to worn out, due to reasons stated above. This happens almost every time when the vehicle is lowered on springs only.

As stated, HAS do not work with pretty much anything but stock.

I have Bilstein/h&r as well and love it. The cost of that combo isnt much more than the HAS kit.

If the CA cracks are superficial they don't need to get done. If the bushing can rotate I. The arm, the car doesn't track well on the road, or your camber is off, those would indicate replacement is required. Or of course if you are heading them banging around. Based on what you said and your mods though, your shocks are probably just toast.

Yeah, I knew the bushings weren't the problem and assumed it was the shocks so we are on the same page there.

The SQ is pretty low and we like the look paired with some 20x10 Vorsteiners and a 295 40 20 tire. Bought the setup all here on the forums. I am afraid of changing the ride height one way or another so I like the idea of something atleast a little adjustable and it looks like the coilovers are the way to go for this.

[SQive]

If you want the best, the Bilstein B16 (PSS10) are incredible. They're around $2K, but I've got over 50K miles on them and they are still like new. . .with a better-than-stock ride. However, unless things have changed with their manufacturing, they're hard to come by. You should ask Mops to see if he can source some for you. That's where I got mine.

[Mops@Nemesis]

If you want the best, the Bilstein B16 (PSS10) are incredible. They're around $2K, but I've got over 50K miles on them and they are still like new. . .with a better-than-stock ride. However, unless things have changed with their manufacturing, they're hard to come by. You should ask Mops to see if he can source some for you. That's where I got mine.

You and your unicorn suspension... they're still on backorder! 🙄

I should have the H&R Sport / Bilstein B8 setup in stock, though.

[djn876]

If you like the KW, the street comfort might be a good option then as you can still adjust the height. Do you have a measurement or picture of how low you are?

[q5 dave]

+1 for KW street comfort. I upgraded from kw has and it's well worth it.

[krwalkman]

If you want the best, the Bilstein B16 (PSS10) are incredible. They're around $2K, but I've got over 50K miles on them and they are still like new. . .with a better-than-stock ride. However, unless things have changed with their manufacturing, they're hard to come by. You should ask Mops to see if he can source some for you. That's where I got mine.

Well, with Mops response it sounds like it's not an option really. Does anyone know how the PSS10 compares with the H&R Bilstein B8 setup as far as comfort, performance, ride height. I have read thoughts on both setups and while I want the PSS10, it may not be worth waiting months to get them, then again, maybe it is. So anyone here changed between the two? Also can anyone compare between KW V1, KW Street Comfort, and PSS10? This car will actually be used in autocross by the way, so keep that in mind. I know it's a boat, but both of our Audi's are.

- - - Updated - - -

You and your unicorn suspension... they're still on backorder! 🙄

I should have the H&R Sport / Bilstein B8 setup in stock, though.

Thanks Mops, either way I will ordering through you. You have KW in your signature too so I assume you can get their coilovers as well?

[krwalkman]

If you like the KW, the street comfort might be a good option then as you can still adjust the height. Do you have a measurement or picture of how low you are?

I will get a few pictures shortly.

Can anyone actually instruct me on how to get pictures in line here. I have asked several times in different forums and tried adding them into my photos on Audizine and then adding the IMG to a link still with no luck. Should I do it on mobile from Tapatalk or something?

[krwalkman]

I have this photo handy since it's on social media for the local ACNA chapter. She is working on getting a couple pictures now that I'll add in.

It isnt slammed by any means, but we really like the look.



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[krwalkman]

Got the picture thing figured out... tapatalk is the way.



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[Mops@Nemesis]

Well, with Mops response it sounds like it's not an option really. Does anyone know how the PSS10 compares with the H&R Bilstein B8 setup as far as comfort, performance, ride height. I have read thoughts on both setups and while I want the PSS10, it may not be worth waiting months to get them, then again, maybe it is. So anyone here changed between the two? Also can anyone compare between KW V1, KW Street Comfort, and PSS10? This car will actually be used in autocross by the way, so keep that in mind. I know it's a boat, but both of our Audi's are.

- - - Updated - - -

Thanks Mops, either way I will ordering through you. You have KW in your signature too so I assume you can get their coilovers as well?

I don't mind to check on the PSS10 for as I feel they'd be best for your use.

The PSS10 be can adjusted to your preferred comfort. A good bit firmer than stock, and also softer. The H&R/B8 setup is a fixed height kit. I'm told the ride comfort is quite nice and dynamics are improved. The KW V1 are height adjustable and ride very close to stock. They have no compression/damp adjustment like the PSS10 - only height. But again, they ride great! I would rule out the KW SC. They're awesome, but AX you'll be best to go H&R/B8, PSS10 or V1.

And yep, we can certainly do the V1. I have one kit in stock.

And you have a unicorn wheel set. 😎

[krwalkman]

I don't mind to check on the PSS10 for as I feel they'd be best for your use.

The PSS10 be can adjusted to your preferred comfort. A good bit firmer than stock, and also softer. The H&R/B8 setup is a fixed height kit. I'm told the ride comfort is quite nice and dynamics are improved. The KW V1 are height adjustable and ride very close to stock. They have no compression/damp adjustment like the PSS10 - only height. But again, they ride great! I would rule out the KW SC. They're awesome, but AX you'll be best to go H&R/B8, PSS10 or V1.

And yep, we can certainly do the V1. I have one kit in stock.

And you have a unicorn wheel set. 😎

Thanks for the summary! Alright, dropping you a PM.

Hey thanks on the wheels, I have a feeling you ordered them, we bought them from GOSQ5 who bought them from SQ5IVE.

[krwalkman]

From looking to found in a couple short hours. Mops hooking it up finding a set of PSS10S ready to go and shipping home by Friday! Huge Shout out to Mops@Nemesis for the speedy and easy process.

Sounds like there was 1 more set in the US that he found too, while they are rarely available, if anyone is looking!

[SQive]

From looking to found in a couple short hours. Mops hooking it up finding a set of PSS10S ready to go and shipping home by Friday! Huge Shout out to Mops@Nemesis for the speedy and easy process.

Sounds like there was 1 more set in the US that he found too, while they are rarely available, if anyone is looking!

Wow! No kidding!? Congratulations!
The Bilstein B16's are the shit!

[scottst]

Where are the adjustment knobs/screws on the PSS10? Is it something you can do without taking things apart? Appealing option as I'm a little worried that the B8/H&R setup would be too stiff.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Wow! No kidding!? Congratulations!
The Bilstein B16's are the shit!

I was sooooo pumped lol!!! Ask Kyle (OP)... I was more excited than he was.


MOPS on the Move!

[SQive]

Where are the adjustment knobs/screws on the PSS10? Is it something you can do without taking things apart? Appealing option as I'm a little worried that the B8/H&R setup would be too stiff.

Yes!
They're as easy as a reach-around.

[scottst]

Yes!
They're as easy as a reach-around.

Good to hear :)

I was up on Bilstein's US site and they don't show a PSS10 fitment for the SQ5. Just the B8. Are we using PSS10s for a different Audi? Sorry, I'm guessing this has been beaten to death before.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Good to hear :)

I was up on Bilstein's US site and they don't show a PSS10 fitment for the SQ5. Just the B8. Are we using PSS10s for a different Audi? Sorry, I'm guessing this has been beaten to death before.

Good question. And yep, the correct kit is the C7 A6 one.

Still available! 😁

[SQive]

Aww. . .Does this mean I'm not a unicorn anymore?

[Mops@Nemesis]

Aww. . .Does this mean I'm not a man whore anymore?

No way - that status remains, imo.



MOPS on the Move!

[krwalkman]

Idk Mops, can we call us twinning.

And yeah, he was super excited to have found them. Maybe more than I was because I'm not sure what I'm getting into yet haha.

No way - that status remains, imo.



MOPS on the Move!

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[krwalkman]

Hey I'm back on this subject and looking at you @SQive. What settings did you do on these? I am looking for the info and trying to figure it out prior to getting them on.

Also, Mops, thanks again they arrived yesterday. Freaking awesome.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Glad they arrived safe and sound, Kyle.

We still have one PSS10 kit up for grabs!

[SQive]

Hey I'm back on this subject and looking at you @SQive. What settings did you do on these? I am looking for the info and trying to figure it out prior to getting them on.

Also, Mops, thanks again they arrived yesterday. Freaking awesome.

The height is subjective, of course, so you can decide on that. As for the dampers, I don't remember where I have them, but since they are so easily adjustable, don't worry about it. Leave them in the middle so you can try them and see if you want firmer or softer.

[mkasperzak]

your going to love them. I went from KW HAS to a set of PSS10's last summer and its night and day. I run them at 6/7 compression setting during summer and a 4 during the winter and its super easy to adjust. Can pump them up to 9/10 for track or a super spirited canyon cruise in a jiffy.

[SQive]

B16 (PSS10) Crew!

[krwalkman]

The height is subjective, of course, so you can decide on that. As for the dampers, I don't remember where I have them, but since they are so easily adjustable, don't worry about it. Leave them in the middle so you can try them and see if you want firmer or softer.

That's good to hear. I will definitely do that.

- - - Updated - - -

your going to love them. I went from KW HAS to a set of PSS10's last summer and its night and day. I run them at 6/7 compression setting during summer and a 4 during the winter and its super easy to adjust. Can pump them up to 9/10 for track or a super spirited canyon cruise in a jiffy.

Thanks for the details, I cannot wait to get them slapped on.

[SQive]

I honestly don't think that anyone that has the B16 kit has a single regret about getting them.

[Omuyshondt]

Apologies for the newbie question but all lowering activity seems to be on B8s. Has anyone had experience just swapping out springs on B9 (2018+)? I was advised H&W springs 28710-1. I’m hoping that a minor 1.3’’ reduction won’t be too hard on shocks but can’t find any info. I was also told that there’s no billsteins yet for B9. Appreciate any insights you can provide. By the way, I have the standard suspension. Just looking for a minor reduction to delete the big gap - probably similar to the lowest setting on adaptive suspension. Thanks.


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[krwalkman]

Hey All, got the coilovers on and wow, it really was a great decision. Now just need to sell the KW H.A.S.

I have a question for you fellow users though. When turning my suspension pops quite a bit and it hasn't stopped. At first I though maybe the springs were just settling, but it's been 2 weeks now and it hasn't stopped. We took it into our Indy shop that put them on and they said it was normal because these shocks were actually made for the C7 Platform. That, I know is true, however they said that because of the added weight and different distribution that this would be normal. I feel like this is incorrect. I know from weighing our cars at the drag strip that the A6 and SQ5 weigh very nearly the same amount, roughly a hundred pounds different.

Can someone tell me if they experience this as well? The popping happens only when turning and sounds like it is just the front left shock, but i would be willing to guess that both fronts do it and I just can't quite differentiate it when in the car. This happens when turning the wheel when stopped (pulling out of a parking spot for example) and also when turning at low speeds around corners. I have not taken a hard turn with it recently.

I am hoping that you fellow 'ziners can help.

[VroomVroom]

I definitely wouldn't say that's normal. Spring-perch alignment, antisway bar link or bushing, or ball joint not tightened to torque spec?

[JB86]

Has anyone run the H&R street performance coil-overs for SQ5? i'd love to hear some feed back as the price on them is very competitive.
Thanks

[Omuyshondt]

Has anyone run the H&R street performance coil-overs for SQ5? i'd love to hear some feed back as the price on them is very competitive.
Thanks

What year is your SQ5? ? I’m also interested in feedback but can’t find any info on 2018+ standard suspension. All activity seems to be on B8 or B9 with adaptative suspension to go super low.


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[djn876]

Popping would not be normal. I would check the strut mounts, and the sway bar. Would want to know if everything was properly torqued or not and some of the top mount bolts I think need to be done in the right order. The spring perch is a good point too, if they didn't seat it right it could be binding a little.

Hey All, got the coilovers on and wow, it really was a great decision. Now just need to sell the KW H.A.S.

I have a question for you fellow users though. When turning my suspension pops quite a bit and it hasn't stopped. At first I though maybe the springs were just settling, but it's been 2 weeks now and it hasn't stopped. We took it into our Indy shop that put them on and they said it was normal because these shocks were actually made for the C7 Platform. That, I know is true, however they said that because of the added weight and different distribution that this would be normal. I feel like this is incorrect. I know from weighing our cars at the drag strip that the A6 and SQ5 weigh very nearly the same amount, roughly a hundred pounds different.

Can someone tell me if they experience this as well? The popping happens only when turning and sounds like it is just the front left shock, but i would be willing to guess that both fronts do it and I just can't quite differentiate it when in the car. This happens when turning the wheel when stopped (pulling out of a parking spot for example) and also when turning at low speeds around corners. I have not taken a hard turn with it recently.

I am hoping that you fellow 'ziners can help.