Any "Must Have" Mods for the SQ5?

[Merrak]

I'm just over 24 hours in of having the SQ5 and WOW...I am honestly just incredibly impressed with this vehicle. I love my S5 and it will forever be my project car, but man...the SQ5 just feels incredible.

HOWEVER, I'm sure there many out there that have opinions on what they believe are must have mods for the car. So...what are they?

[GoCougs1234]

Stage 1 ECU tune is BY FAR the best bang for the buck.

[B18b1ex]

Lowering links
For me a suitcase muffler delete and real exhaust tips.
Also I got TGK sway bars. I’m not tuned because of warranty but I have heard people like the JB4s.


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[Txlifter]

Stage 1 for sure, sway bars for sure. The rest is personal preference, but it's a slippery slope.

[Merrak]

Also I got TGK sway bars.

Stage 1 for sure, sway bars for sure. The rest is personal preference, but it's a slippery slope.

How much did the swaybars change the ride quality? Did it make it more harsh in all modes?

[Txlifter]

How much did the swaybars change the ride quality? Did it make it more harsh in all modes?

Not at all. It's more of a really nice 'glued down' feeling through turns/lane changes etc. Even the strut brace didn't seem to induce any 'harsh' ride quality.

[Merrak]

Not at all. It's more of a really nice 'glued down' feeling through turns/lane changes etc. Even the strut brace didn't seem to induce any 'harsh' ride quality.

Very cool, and good to know. Both mods are pretty inexpensive, all things considered. Thanks for the heads up.

[Gunnarrrrr]

034 sway bars, no change to ride quality just better cornering, and do a 034 strut tower brace with it too for the most noticeable difference. grab a grease gun for the zerk fittings on the sway bushings to make your life easy, when a creak pops up u can just squirt some lube in there rather than disassembling everything. 034 sells one with the tubes of superlube, I think I got mine on amazon along with a bag of spare zerk fittings.

power wise,
034 stage 1 ecu. if you want the most out of it, get the stage 2 TCU with it, along with the trans mount insert, and the trans mount too.

You won’t need it immediately, but since it’s black friday sale time, pick up a pair of 034 solid engine mounts and stash them in your garage til you have a weekend to spend on the worst job of your life. If you get even a stage 1 tune your mounts will fail pretty quickly. mine leaked about 5k miles in, 40k on the car. get the street density mounts if you don’t mind a gentle buzz in your seat at idle, or get the softer Q5 2.0t mounts if you want it to feel like stock.

You’re looking at about $1500 in software and $1500 in chassis upgrades. If you were amazed the first week owning the car, this will amplify that feeling about 3x, and still be just as comfy as stock. This is basically what a proper stage 1 setup looks like. anything else is really just preference, and will start to slightly degrade ride quality and noise.


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[rcprato]

I'm just over 24 hours in of having the SQ5 and WOW...I am honestly just incredibly impressed with this vehicle. I love my S5 and it will forever be my project car, but man...the SQ5 just feels incredible.

HOWEVER, I'm sure there many out there that have opinions on what they believe are must have mods for the car. So...what are they?

Just drive it and have fun!!

I have a 2018 SQ5 Premium+ and in the last 4 years of ownership all I have done is lower it about 1.7" and it has been a great daily driver.

[B6_Dolphin]

Must-have: Eliminate Start/Stop. You can buy a S/S Eliminator off Amazon:

https://a.co/d/4yMKR1H

[hbnoodles]

Must-have: Eliminate Start/Stop. You can buy a S/S Eliminator off Amazon:

https://a.co/d/4yMKR1H

You get this for free with the 034 stage 1 tune (and most other tunes as well).

[B6_Dolphin]

You get this for free with the 034 stage 1 tune (and most other tunes as well).

$19. Nuff said...

[B18b1ex]

How much did the swaybars change the ride quality? Did it make it more harsh in all modes?

The TGK ones are a little stiffer than 034, that’s my understanding. I live in Florida so most roads aren’t bad, I’m running a 295/35/21 and the sways. In comfort and dynamic I think there isn’t a huge change in harshness. The cornering more than makes up for any change! My opinion. Best wishes

[Merrak]

The TGK ones are a little stiffer than 034, that’s my understanding. I live in Florida so most roads aren’t bad, I’m running a 295/35/21 and the sways. In comfort and dynamic I think there isn’t a huge change in harshness. The cornering more than makes up for any change! My opinion. Best wishes

Thanks bud. I live in New England and some of the roads are absolute shit, so I may need to stick with something a bit softer, but we'll see what I end up doing.

And thanks @Gunnarrrrr for your feedback. I'll probably end up going 034 with my selections. Going to keep it pretty modest on the upgrades, something to improve handling and maybe look into something to help with fuel econ.

[Gunnarrrrr]

stiffer sway bars won’t necessarily ride harsher at all, but they will burn out your end links quicker.


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[4TBBUCS]

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For me a suitcase muffler delete and real exhaust tips.
Also I got TGK sway bars. I’m not tuned because of warranty but I have heard people like the JB[emoji[emoji[emoji[emoji6][emoji6]][emoji[emoji[emoji6]][emoji[emoji6]]]][emoji[emoji[emoji[emoji6][emoji6]][emoji[emoji[emoji6]][emoji[emoji6]]]][emoji[emoji6][emoji6]][emoji[emoji[emoji6]][emoji[emoji6][emoji6]]]][emoji[emoji6][emoji6]][emoji[emoji[emoji6][emoji6]][emoji[emoji[emoji6]][emoji[emoji6]]]]]s.


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Been eyeing the TGK sways myself. Curious, did you also install their adjustable endlinks or stick to stock ones?


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[B18b1ex]

Been eyeing the TGK sways myself. Curious, did you also install their adjustable endlinks or stick to stock ones?


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I used the stock ones.


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[Gunnarrrrr]

stock end links on my 034’s as well but I did do a fresh set in the front, about $20 a piece for the OEM lemforders (with the audi logo ground off)


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[buggravy]

Looks like you have air suspension, and I can't believe no one has mentioned the Cete lowering module yet. Fantastic product, that I will likely have on any Audi I ever have with air suspension.

[orangesquared]

Must-have: Eliminate Start/Stop. You can buy a S/S Eliminator off Amazon:

https://a.co/d/4yMKR1H

I second this. Spent 3 years frustrated with my last sq5. 3 minutes install solved that on the new one.


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[asu174]

Start/stop override- Amazon

Rennline MagSafe phone mount (recommend the powered one and run it to a cigarette USB adapter
https://www.rennline.com/audi-b9-exa...833QanpBjK7LQu

Lowering links for air suspension

Powder coat roof rack bars flat/satin black (was $60 since I did the disassembly)

Stage 1 tune- I’m in a 2024 that blocks both ECU and TCU tunes, but we had an 034 tune on our 2020 and it was great and will do it again if it’s ever possible.

Wheels/tires of your choice. Talk to mops.

Wouldn’t do again:
1. Had stage 2 on my S4 and I’d say it was awesome but wouldn’t do it again since I’m not comfortable installing the downpipe or intercooler myself and it got expensive quickly.
2. Intake- not much noticeable performance gains and didn’t care for the sound. I’m old, YMMV.

[Gunnarrrrr]

almost forgot, but a wireless carplay adapter. I use a magic link but there’s others too. phone mounts are tacky, just use carplay


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[B18b1ex]

Start/stop override- Amazon

Rennline MagSafe phone mount (recommend the powered one and run it to a cigarette USB adapter
https://www.rennline.com/audi-b9-exa...833QanpBjK7LQu

Lowering links for air suspension

Powder coat roof rack bars flat/satin black (was $60 since I did the disassembly)

Stage 1 tune- I’m in a 2024 that blocks both ECU and TCU tunes, but we had an 034 tune on our 2020 and it was great and will do it again if it’s ever possible.

Wheels/tires of your choice. Talk to mops.

Wouldn’t do again:
1. Had stage 2 on my S4 and I’d say it was awesome but wouldn’t do it again since I’m not comfortable installing the downpipe or intercooler myself and it got expensive quickly.
2. Intake- not much noticeable performance gains and didn’t care for the sound. I’m old, YMMV.

Did you remove the magnet from the roof bars? If only carrying light loads light bicycle. With stock bars the traction control is very annoying!


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[asu174]

Did you remove the magnet from the roof bars? If only carrying light loads light bicycle. With stock bars the traction control is very annoying!


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I didn’t see any magnets- just the ends on each side. They just seemed like aluminum bars.

[Merrak]

almost forgot, but a wireless carplay adapter. I use a magic link but there’s others too. phone mounts are tacky, just use carplay


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Yeah, I had one for my S5 that I moved over.

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[B18b1ex]

I didn’t see any magnets- just the ends on each side. They just seemed like aluminum bars.

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[asu174]

Oh I just took the whole mounting bracket off each side, apparently inclusive of magnets.

[B18b1ex]

Oh I just took the whole mounting bracket off each side, apparently inclusive of magnets.

If you remove that magnet, the car will behave as normal as if the bars aren’t there. You must keep in mind I would not if carrying loads greater than like a bicycle.


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[Gunnarrrrr]

a hitch is a pretty must have mod along with a oneup hitch rack, draw-tite 76183 for $200 fits like the oem


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[SteveYem]

I’m in the market for a new DD and yesterday I test drove a CPO 2024 SQ5. Two aspects I noticed immediately that are giving me major pause about moving forward with the purchase:

NOTE: The drive select mode was set to Dynamic during the test drive when I made these observations

1) The steering felt incredibly light. Not sporty at all. At parking lot maneuvering speed it was downright floaty. I recall a similar but not nearly as pronounced issue on my B8.5 S4, on which I ended up installing a Eurocode Alu Kreutz which seemed to improve it. Are there any recommended fixes for this on the SQ5?

2) With the transmission in ‘sport’ mode, and drive select in Dynamic mode, up shifts using the paddles were anemic and delayed….hit the + paddle, wait a second, then it shifts. I suppose the only workaround for this would be an aftermarket tune (if/when available), but then there is the risk of TD1 flagging and losing all of the remaining warranty on this CPO vehicle. Any alternate options?

[B6_Dolphin]

1) The steering felt incredibly light. Not sporty at all. At parking lot maneuvering speed it was downright floaty. I recall a similar but not nearly as pronounced issue on my B8.5 S4, on which I ended up installing a Eurocode Alu Kreutz which seemed to improve it. Are there any recommended fixes for this on the SQ5?

2) With the transmission in ‘sport’ mode, and drive select in Dynamic mode, up shifts using the paddles were anemic and delayed….hit the + paddle, wait a second, then it shifts. I suppose the only workaround for this would be an aftermarket tune (if/when available), but then there is the risk of TD1 flagging and losing all of the remaining warranty on this CPO vehicle. Any alternate options?

I have a '21 SQ5 S/B w/Prestige, Sport Pack (i.e., air susp), and Dynamic Steering. The Dynamic Steering makes a difference in the steering response, but to make the ride feel more "buttoned-down", I have the 034 Strut Brace and 034 Frt & Rr Stabilizer & End Links installed. Overall, for a cross-over tuned chassis, it can be "sporty" in Dynamic/Individual, but more forgiving of interstate expansion joints in Comfort, for example.

I still have about 6 months left of the 4-yr/50k warranty, but for a little more power, I have installed the DTE Systems PowerControl X boost controller and the PedalBox Pro, for eliminating the dead spot in the accelerator pedal response.

https://www.chiptuning.com/audi/q5-f...ercontrol.html

Both the PowerControl X and PedalBox Pro settings are controlled via an iPhone app.

The PowerControl X module is installed in the engine compartment, and is easily removeable, with a wire harness that connects to 3 engine sensors.

[SteveYem]

I have a '21 SQ5 S/B w/Prestige, Sport Pack (i.e., air susp), and Dynamic Steering. The Dynamic Steering makes a difference in the steering response, but to make the ride feel more "buttoned-down", I have the 034 Strut Brace and 034 Frt & Rr Stabilizer & End Links installed. Overall, for a cross-over tuned chassis, it can be "sporty" in Dynamic/Individual, but more forgiving of interstate expansion joints in Comfort, for example.

I still have about 6 months left of the 4-yr/50k warranty, but for a little more power, I have installed the DTE Systems PowerControl X boost controller and the PedalBox Pro, for eliminating the dead spot in the accelerator pedal response.

https://www.chiptuning.com/audi/q5-f...ercontrol.html

Both the PowerControl X and PedalBox Pro settings are controlled via an iPhone app.

The PowerControl X module is installed in the engine compartment, and is easily removeable, with a wire harness that connects to 3 engine sensors.

Thank you for the info! The window sticker for the 2024 model I’m considering does not stipulate Dynamic Steering, but it does have the Sport Package (air suspension, sport diff and red calipers). That said, would you maintain that the bolt-on suspension bits you referenced would improve the steering feel regardless?

I looked at the PowrControlX info (thanks for the link!) and I’m not positive it also applies to the B9.5, but maybe it does and I just missed it. I like the idea of a plug in piggyback unit that can be removed without a trace for dealer visits; however, unless I misread the details I don’t believe this unit will change the shifting behavior (lag) in any way. Can you comment on that?

[B6_Dolphin]

Thank you for the info! The window sticker for the 2024 model I’m considering does not stipulate Dynamic Steering, but it does have the Sport Package (air suspension, sport diff and red calipers). That said, would you maintain that the bolt-on suspension bits you referenced would improve the steering feel regardless?

I looked at the PowrControlX info (thanks for the link!) and I’m not positive it also applies to the B9.5, but maybe it does and I just missed it. I like the idea of a plug in piggyback unit that can be removed without a trace for dealer visits; however, unless I misread the details I don’t believe this unit will change the shifting behavior (lag) in any way. Can you comment on that?

Yes, both the Strut Brace and the Stabilizer Bars will help with steering feel. The strut brace reduces flexing between the front sub-frame, which the steering rack is mounted to, and the unibody. The increased spring rate of the 034 stabilizer bars will reduce the suspension wallow while the suspension is loaded-up in high speed turn, such as an off-ramp.

My '21 SQ5 Sportback is a B9.5, which is the initial year for it, and so is MY2024, so this piggyback I linked to is applicable. As for the shifting behavior, even though you were in Dynamic mode, did the transmission indicate "S" in the Virtual Cockpit screen? You can be in Dynamic, but the transmission can be switched to regular "D" mode, which is a less aggressive shift pattern. The other issue with one test drive is the ECM/TCM will learn a behavior and if the previous owner was not very "sporty", it is also reflected in the learned programming of the ECM/TCM.

[GoCougs1234]

I’m in the market for a new DD and yesterday I test drove a CPO 2024 SQ5. Two aspects I noticed immediately that are giving me major pause about moving forward with the purchase:

NOTE: The drive select mode was set to Dynamic during the test drive when I made these observations

1) The steering felt incredibly light. Not sporty at all. At parking lot maneuvering speed it was downright floaty. I recall a similar but not nearly as pronounced issue on my B8.5 S4, on which I ended up installing a Eurocode Alu Kreutz which seemed to improve it. Are there any recommended fixes for this on the SQ5?

2) With the transmission in ‘sport’ mode, and drive select in Dynamic mode, up shifts using the paddles were anemic and delayed….hit the + paddle, wait a second, then it shifts. I suppose the only workaround for this would be an aftermarket tune (if/when available), but then there is the risk of TD1 flagging and losing all of the remaining warranty on this CPO vehicle. Any alternate options?

1.) Yep - this is Dynamic Steering. Quite gimmicky IMO. It firms and tightens up at freeway speeds though. Haven't tried but I can't imagine any manner of aftermarket fiddly bits will change this as Dynamic Steering = electric motor, variable ratio gearing, sensors and programming.

2.) Flappy paddle response is good (great even) but you have to be about 1/3 throttle or more in addition to being in drive mode Dynamic and transmission mode Sport. I'm APR stage 3 (ECU and TCU) and this phenomenon still exists FWIW.

[Faceman76]

Looks like you have air suspension, and I can't believe no one has mentioned the Cete lowering module yet. Fantastic product, that I will likely have on any Audi I ever have with air suspension.

Other than being able to adjust on the fly, what other advantages does it have in comparison to lowering links?

[CreoSTi]

Other than being able to adjust on the fly, what other advantages does it have in comparison to lowering links?

The main benefits of the CETE are;

1. Ability to adjust/save ride height settings for each Audi Drive Select mode independently (lower, stock, or higher). With lowering links, you're lowering by a predetermined amount for each mode.
2. Adjust ride height from their mobile app.
3. There's a "show mode" that allows you to park the car at the lowest ride height the controller allows.

If you just want to lower the car a set amount and be done with it, then choose lowering links.

For us, the versatility of the CETE is worth it. My wife drives the SQ5 to work once or twice a week so it's set to ~10mm lower on Auto, in Comfort and Dynamic (when I drive the SQ5) it's set to ~30-40mm lower, and I raised the ride height by ~10mm For Allroad/Offroad when we need the additional ground clearance (i.e. trails, camping, deeper snow, etc.). Here are the different ride heights I have our car set at in the app;

Auto


Comfort/Dynamic


Allroad/Offroad


Show Mode

[contactcr]

The wheels change in each mode too that's impressive

[Txlifter]

The wheels change in each mode too that's impressive

😆😮

[boostin20v]

If you just want to lower the car a set amount and be done with it, then choose lowering links.

I knew I'd never dick around with the controller, so I saved myself over 1000.

The wheels change in each mode too that's impressive

🤣

[CreoSTi]

The wheels change in each mode too that's impressive

Like magic...