ST X Coilovers Audi Q5 8R/8R1 08-19

ST X Coilovers for Audi Q5 8R/8R1 (2008-2019) – 40-85 mm Lower, Height Adjustable, Fixed Damping

This ST X kit replaces the standard springs and dampers on the Audi Q5 8R/8R1 (2008-2019) with a height-adjustable coilover set. It lowers the car by approx. 40-80 mm at the front and 45-85 mm at the rear, which sharpens the steering, cuts body roll and closes up the wheel arch gap. The ride height is set on threaded struts, so you can go for a subtle drop or use the full approved range, and change it again later.

The ST X is the entry point to the ST range. It is built around a damper setting that ST have matched to this specific car, so there is nothing to adjust beyond ride height. Shaped (progressive) springs keep the ride compliant over small bumps and firm up as the suspension compresses, which makes it a good fit for a daily driver that needs to look lower and feel tighter without becoming harsh. ST is part of the KW automotive group, and the kit is developed and made in Germany using KW engineering.

ST makes 2 versions of the X kit for the Audi Q5 8R/8R1, split by front axle weight. Between them they cover the 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TDI quattro, 2.0 TFSI quattro, 3.0 TDI quattro, 3.0 TFSI quattro, 3.2 FSI quattro, SQ5 TDI quattro, SQ5 TFSI quattro. Use the table in the Fitment section to find the right one, then choose it from the drop-down.

Specifications

• Front lowering: approx. 40-80 mm (varies by version)
• Rear lowering: approx. 45-85 mm (varies by version)
• Height adjustment: Stepless, on threaded strut housings
• Minimum ride height (wheel hub centre to arch edge): front 395 mm, rear 395 mm
• Damping: Fixed, pre-set by ST for this vehicle
• Springs: Shaped progressive springs
• Strut housings: Galvanised steel
• Approval: Parts certificate (German §19.3)

Lowering figures are ST's, measured against the standard car. The actual drop varies with engine, equipment and tolerances on each car, and the springs settle slightly after the first few hundred miles.

Key Features

• Stepless ride height adjustment on a coarse, dirt-resistant trapezoidal thread
• Damper setting developed by ST for this vehicle, so no setup is needed beyond ride height
• Shaped progressive springs for a comfortable ride with firmer support in corners
• Galvanised, multi-sealed steel strut housings for long-term corrosion protection
• Composite spring perches with stainless steel inserts that stay easy to adjust for years
• Dust covers and bump stops protect the damper seals and act as an extra spring under heavy load
• Developed and built in Germany, based on KW engineering
• Supplied with a parts certificate and fitting instructions

What's in the Kit?

• 2 x height-adjustable front coilover struts with springs
• 2 x rear dampers
• 2 x rear springs with height-adjustable spring seats
• Composite spring perches with stainless steel inserts
• Dust covers and bump stops
• Parts certificate and fitting instructions

Please note: the photos are ST's own images of the kits for this car. Choose your version to see its kit. Small details such as brackets can differ from the photos.

Fitment

• Audi Q5 8R (Nov 2008 to Apr 2019)

Which version do I need? Find your engine, then match the body style, drivetrain and front axle load. The axle load is on your VIN plate (door pillar or under the bonnet, the line marked "1-"). Not sure? Send us your registration and we will check.

Not suitable for: any vehicle not listed above. Contact us with your registration if you are unsure.

Adaptive dampers: if your car has electronically controlled dampers, the system must be switched off with a cancellation kit (sold separately) to stop warning lights and fault codes: electronic damping: KW cancellation kit (part no. 68510144).

Installation

Fitting means removing the original struts, springs and dampers and fitting the ST units in their place. We recommend a qualified workshop experienced with coilovers. A spring compressor is needed to strip down the original front struts. The original top mounts, bearings and fixings are reused, so check them for wear and replace any that are worn. Set the ride height within the approved range, tighten the suspension bolts with the car's weight on its wheels, and torque everything to the manufacturer's figures. A four-wheel alignment is required once the car is at its final ride height. Re-check the height and alignment after the first few hundred miles, once the springs have settled.

The fitting instructions and parts certificate for each version can be downloaded from its specification table once you choose your version.

Before you start:

• Disconnect any ride height sensors (headlight levelling or self-levelling) before removing the old struts.
• Clean the threads before adjusting, and start with the height adjusters in the middle of their range.

After fitting:

• Do not go below ST's minimum height, measured from the wheel hub centre to the wheel arch edge: front 395 mm, rear 395 mm.
• Expect the car to settle a further 5-10 mm once it has been driven, then re-check the height.
• Check there is at least 5 mm clearance between the tyres and the suspension through the full steering and suspension travel.
• Have the headlight aim reset, along with any other height-dependent systems.
• ESP/ABS warning lights can appear after fitting. Some clear after a short drive, others need full steering lock both ways or a reset with a diagnostic tool.
• On cars with radar or camera driver assistance systems, have the calibration checked after lowering.

Which version do I need for my Audi Q5 8R/8R1?

Start with your engine in the Fitment table, then match the body style, drivetrain and front axle load (on your VIN plate). If more than one row fits, or your car isn't listed, send us your registration and we will confirm the right part number.

Will this fit my Audi Q5 8R/8R1?

It fits the Audi Q5 8R/8R1 (2008-2019) with the 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TDI quattro, 2.0 TFSI quattro, 3.0 TDI quattro, 3.0 TFSI quattro, 3.2 FSI quattro and more. Check the Fitment section for the body styles and exclusions, or send us your registration and we will check.

How low will my Audi Q5 8R/8R1 sit?

ST quotes a drop of approx. 40-80 mm at the front and 45-85 mm at the rear compared with standard, depending on the version. The exact drop varies from car to car with engine, equipment and tolerances. ST also sets a minimum: the distance from the wheel hub centre to the wheel arch edge must stay above approx. 395 mm at the front and 395 mm at the rear.

Can I adjust the damping?

No, the damping is pre-set by ST to suit the springs, so there is nothing to set up. You only adjust the ride height. If you want adjustable damping, look at the ST XA.

Will the ST X make my Audi Q5 8R/8R1 ride harshly?

The ST X uses progressive springs and a fixed damper setting chosen by ST for this car, so it is firmer than standard but still suits everyday driving. Lowering a long way or fitting low-profile tyres will firm up the ride more than the coilovers themselves.

Do I need an alignment after fitting?

Yes. Changing the ride height changes camber and toe, so a full four-wheel alignment is needed once the car is at its final height, and again after any later change.

My car has adaptive dampers. Will this kit fit?

Only with the correct KW cancellation kit, which switches off the electronic damper control so no warning lights appear. The kit number is in the Fitment section. Some versions are not suitable for adaptive dampers at all, so contact us if you are unsure.

Is it road legal in the UK?

Yes. It is designed for road use and comes with a German parts certificate. Keep the ride height within ST's approved range and tell your insurer about the modification.

Is it covered by a warranty?

Yes, ST covers it against defects in materials and workmanship. If a part ever needs replacing, contact us with your vehicle details and order number.