Why does the Audi Q5 jerk when turning the steering wheel?
3 Answers
Audi Q5 jerks when turning the steering wheel because the power steering oil encounters resistance when passing through the high-pressure oil pipe during the process. The high-pressure oil pipe is a component of the high-pressure oil circuit, which requires the pipe to withstand certain oil pressure and have certain fatigue strength to ensure the sealing requirements of the pipeline. Automotive high-pressure oil pipes are mainly found in high-pressure injection diesel engines and direct-injection gasoline engines with high-pressure injection, capable of withstanding the oil pressure required during engine operation. The Audi Q5 is a mid-size SUV model under FAW-Volkswagen Audi, with dimensions of 4629 mm in length, 1898 mm in width, and 1655 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2807 mm. In terms of power, the domestic version of the Audi Q5 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which has a maximum power of 169 kilowatts and a maximum torque of 350 Newton-meters.
I've encountered the Audi Q5's jerky steering issue several times. The most likely culprit is a problem with the power steering system. Audi uses electric power steering, and the steering motor might be sticking or the torque sensor could be malfunctioning, causing the power assistance to lag when turning. Another possibility is wear in the steering tie rod ball joint. When I helped a friend diagnose this issue last time, the grease in the ball joint had dried into powder, resulting in clunking sounds when turning. There's also the case where the front wheel alignment is off and tire pressure is incorrect, causing uneven tire wear that looks like dog bites. If the problem is particularly noticeable during low-speed turns, it's probably due to a seized universal joint in the steering column intermediate shaft. Don't underestimate this issue - a single steering hesitation could lead to an accident. You should immediately visit an Audi dealership to read the fault codes and have technicians thoroughly inspect the chassis on a lift.
If you notice a jerky sensation when steering your Audi Q5, there's an 80% chance the steering gear is acting up. If the control module of the electric power steering system malfunctions, it may intermittently cut power, making the steering wheel unusually heavy. Another possibility is loose suspension links causing wheel movement to desynchronize with steering input – like last time I encountered this issue and found the lower control arm bushings split into three pieces. Out-of-round tires are more common; if the tread is worn like a washboard, you'll feel a jerk with every rotation. A less obvious culprit could be floor mats obstructing the steering column, making steering difficult. When in doubt, don't force it – a proper inspection of tie rods and ball joints on a lift is the way to go.
