Passenger side suspension drops when sitting static.

[Nicola25]

Audi Q8 - I’ve noticed the passenger side front  suspension drops when the car is off.  No warning lights and suspension moves up when the car has started and it’s fine to drive.  It only seems to be when sitting for a long time. Could that be an airbag leak or defective pipe? Has anyone else had the same problem? Thanks 

Edited January 21 by Nicola25

[Steve Q]

Definitely could be a leaking airbag. I'd recommend a diagnostic check to see if any fault codes flag up 

[Nicola25]

Thanks.

the Car is booked in for a diagnostic check next week. Do you know the costs for repair/replacement ? 

Edited January 21 by Nicola25

[spartacus 68]

Genuine Audi Q8 suspension airbag unit will be over £1k for fronts. Doubt it's the compressor as it's going back to normal ride height on start-up, and likely to be the air suspension unit or the fixing point where the tube enters the unit via a union. These units, although I'm no expert wouldn't need to be fitted as pairs as per normal coil-spring set-up. Possible to find used parts but on a 2020 vehicle but personally I'd opt for new given you have labour to fit. There are after-market parts from reputable makers who probably make them for Audi anyway, but it's all about compatibility.

Suspect there's some sort of configuration once a new part is fitted - again access to VCDS to scan will reveal.

You should be able to find part number here: https://www.lllparts.co.uk/

Edited January 22 by spartacus 68

[Nicola25]

That’s great. I appreciate your input. The car has only done £26k miles so I would have expected to get more miles out of the car  before a new airbag would need replacing. 

Edited January 22 by Nicola25

[Francis007]

Hi Nicola

I was hoping and waiting to see if anyone could reply as I'm afraid I haven't the technical knowledge to help you with your problem.

It looks as though you have received some good advice from the other posters.

Just one thing though. May I ask where you are ? If you do have an airbag suspension problem and that sounds pricey, I do have a Audi specialist garage who I use in Hampshire. 

Matt is a brilliant technical guy who uses genuine Audi parts but he charges half the rate of an Audi main dealership.

Been using him for years on my previous VW Phaetons ( with air suspension ) my previous A8 and now my two new Q8's. I would thoroughly recommend him.

Just a thought.

[Francis007]

Hi Nicola.

Please ignore that last post of mine ! Just looked at your profile and I see you are situated in Glasgow.

Hampshire is a long way to come to save a few bob! My bad.

Hope you get your suspension sorted. 

[Nicola25]

Yes, everyone has been really helpful so far and I’ve received plenty of good advice. I live in the outskirts of Glasgow , so unfortunately Hampshire is quite a distance away. However, I do appreciate your recommendations of your garage - sounds like you’ve got a reliable one. The Audi dealership has already charged £140 for diagnostic check but wants to carry out further checks . Which they quoted £436. I’ve booked in to a local garage for a diagnostic check next week. I do have a warranty cover, but it seems the airbags are not included! 

[Nicola25]

I’ve had 3 separate diagnostics checks at 3 different garages. There are no error codes showing. The last garage confirmed there is no obvious damage, no airbag leak, no corrosion. He said it could be faulty airbag but it’s only a guess!  So I’m not further forward and car is still dropping when sitting for a few hours.  Does anyone know if  this could be an electrical issue or sensor? 

[cliffcoggin]

I doubt it is an electrical or sensor fault because the electrical system is off when the car sags. It is more likely to be an air leak from the bag, valves, or pipe. I would spray or brush soapy water on all the components and watch for bubbles.

[Nicola25]

Thanks for your input. I’m planning to take it over to a different Audi dealership tomorrow. Hopefully get it sorted!