Audi A4: Subframe Crossbrace, Removing and Installing

Special tools and workshop equipment required

• Torque Wrench 1331 5-50Nm -VAG1331-
• Engine and Gearbox Jack -VAS6931-
• Puller - Ball Joint -T40043-
• Gearbox Support -T40173-
• Locating Pin -T40334-

  Caution

This procedure contains mandatory replaceable parts. Refer to component overview and parts catalog prior to starting procedure.

Mandatory Replacement Parts

• Bolts - Subframe Crossbrace to Subframe
• Bolts - Subframe Crossbrace/Steering Gear to Subframe
• Bolt - Clip to Subframe Crossbrace

Removing

  Note

During installation, all cable ties must be installed at the same location.

- Remove the noise insulation. Refer to → Body Exterior; Rep. Gr.66; Noise Insulation; Noise Insulation, Removing and Installing.

- Remove the left and right nuts -arrows- for the subframe shield.

- Equipment version with SCR system: free up the SCR delivery line -1- with the bracket -2- on the crossbrace.

- Free up the wires on the crossbrace.

- To protect the threads, remove the nut -arrow- on the left and right from the guide link joint pin just until it is flush with the joint pin threads.

  WARNING

There is a risk of injury from falling components.

When pressing off, the tie rod end loosens abruptly from the wheel bearing housing. Use, for example, the -VAS6931- to secure.

- Press out the guide link joint pin with the -T40043- from the conical seat. Do not damage the CV boot while doing so.

- Remove the nut and free up the guide link on the wheel bearing housing. If necessary, counterhold the joint pin with a TX 40 socket to do this.

- If required, free up the wiring harness and the SCR delivery line.

- Support the crossbrace with the -VAS6931- and the -T40173-.

- Secure the crossbrace with the transmission support tensioning strap -arrow-.

  Caution

There is a risk of damaging the threads on the subframe threaded connection to the body.

• The subframe bolts on the body must not be loosened or tightened with an impact wrench.
• Always install all bolts by hand for the first few turns.

  Note

To secure the steering gear, a -T40334- must be screwed in at -1 and 2-.

- Replace bolts -1 and 2- with -T40334- and tighten to 60 Nm.

• The steering gear is now secured.

- Remove the bolts -arrows-, lower the subframe crossbrace -3- using the -VAS6931- and remove it.

  Caution

There is a risk of damaging the suspension components.

• If the subframe mount, steering gear or subframe crossbrace are not installed correctly, do not rest the vehicle on its wheels.
• Supporting the vehicle at the subframe or the subframe crossbrace (for example, using a floor jack or similar device) is not permitted.

Installing

Install in reverse order of removal and note the following:

- Bring the crossbrace into the installation position and tighten. Refer to → Fig. "Subframe Crossbrace - Tightening Sequence".

Tightening Specifications

• Refer to → Chapter "Overview - Subframe"
• Refer to → Body Exterior; Rep. Gr.66; Noise Insulation; Overview - Noise Insulation.

Subframe Shield, Removing and Installing

Special tools and workshop equipment required

• Torque Wrench 1410 -VAG1410-

Left Subframe Shield, Removing

- Remove the rear noise insulation. Refer to → Body Exterior; Rep. Gr.66; Noise Insulation; Noise Insulation, Removing and Installing.

- Remove the threaded connections -arrows-.

- If equipped, free up the bracket -2-.

- Remove the shield -1-.

Right Subframe Shield, Removing

- Equipment versions with gasoline engine: remove the front muffler. Refer to → Rep. Gr.26; Exhaust Pipes/Mufflers; Front Muffler, Removing and Installing.

- Equipment versions with TDI engine: Remove the front exhaust pipe with SCR catalytic converter. Refer to → Rep. Gr.26; Exhaust Pipes/Mufflers; Front Exhaust Pipe, Removing and Installing.

- Remove the subframe shield.

Installing

Install in reverse order of removal.

Tightening Specifications

• Refer to → Chapter "Overview - Subframe"
• Refer to → Rep. Gr.26; Exhaust Pipes/Mufflers; Overview - Muffler.
• Refer to → Body Exterior; Rep. Gr.66; Noise Insulation; Overview - Noise Insulation.

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