Audi Q5 Power Steering Fluid

Learn about your Audi Q5 power steering fluid and how to replace it at home in this article from Jerry.
Written by David Ghanizadeh-Khoob
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
For models built before 2013, the recommended power steering fluid for the Audi Q5 is a CHF 11S power steering fluid. Newer models use an electronic power steering system that does not require fluid.
Power steering fluid has a pretty long lifespan, making it easy to forget that regularly changing it is an essential part of your routine car maintenance. Fortunately, if you want to save some cash, replacing it yourself is pretty easy.
In this article from
Jerry
—the trustworthy super app for comparing
car insurance
policies—we will cover what type of fluid to buy, when to change it, and how to change your Audi Q5 power steering fluid at home. We'll even go over how to save on your
Audi Q5 insurance costs

What type of power steering fluid does the Audi Q5 use?

Since 2013, the Q5 has used an electromechanical power steering system, which does not require power steering fluid.
For most models made in 2012 or earlier, the recommended Audi Q5 power steering fluid is Preston CHF 11S. Before you purchase a power sterling fluid, confirm which fluid is recommended for your vehicle by looking at the power steering fluid reservoir or cap or the owner’s manual. Deviating from the manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to unnecessary issues.
Here are a couple of options to get you started:
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

How to change Audi Q5 power steering fluid

Changing your power steering fluid at home can make for a pretty straightforward DIY project. If you were to hire a mechanic to do it for you, it would cost upward of $100, but this is, of course, an option if you want to save the time and hassle of doing it yourself.
To do a basic power steering fluid replacement, you’ll just need a few things:
  • Some kind of pump–a turkey baster or clean soap pump can do the trick
  • A fresh bottle of power steering fluid 
  • Paper towels 
  • A funnel (optional but a good idea)
  • Jack and jack stands (also optional)
Step 1: Locate the power steering reservoir and remove the fill cap
Step 2: Using your pump, pump out as much fluid as possible from the reservoir
Step 3: Refill the reservoir. Aim for halfway between the minimum and maximum fill lines. Replace the fill cap.
Step 4: Bleed the lines by starting the engine and turning the steering wheel left and right as far as it can go for a minute or two. Jack stands will help make this easier and reduce the wear on your tires. 
Step 5: Check the fluid level, and refill as needed.
You can opt for a full system flush as well, which would require you to disconnect the power steering line and let the fluid drain completely before reconnecting, refilling, and bleeding the lines. 
If you were to do a full flush, it is very important to make sure you bleed the lines well to get any air bubbles out, leaving any air in the lines can cause damage to the system.

What is the power steering fluid change interval for an Audi Q5?

The rule of thumb is to aim to change your Audi Q5’s power steering fluid every 50,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first.
Between changes, it is a good idea to inspect the quality of your power steering fluid every once in a while to look for signs of contamination or fluid leaks. Common signs that your power steering fluid requires replacement include:
  • Black or brown fluid in the reservoir. Clean power steering fluid should be clear and usually pink or amber.
  • Difficulty turning the steering wheel
  • Unusually loose steering
  • Groining sounds when turning the steering wheel

How to save on insurance for your Audi Q5

Once you’ve dealt with your power steering fluid, why not look into saving on your
Audi car insurance
? Experts recommend looking into policy upgrades every six months to ensure the best rates on insurance. Most Americans tend to put this off, settling for expensive insurance without knowing it.
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Jerry
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Jerry users save over $800 per year on average and if you want, you can have the app notify you when cheaper options become available, so you can save more down the road!
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