2013 Audi Allroad Rear Suspension Used Parts: A Complete Guide

If you own a 2013 Audi Allroad, you know it offers a blend of luxury and off-road capability. However, the rear suspension can be a common trouble spot, especially as the vehicle ages. Replacing worn parts with used components is a smart way to save money without sacrificing quality. This guide covers everything you need to know about finding and selecting used rear suspension parts for your 2013 Allroad, from identifying worn components to ensuring compatibility and longevity.

Understanding the 2013 Audi Allroad Rear Suspension

The 2013 Allroad features an independent rear suspension with multi-link setup, similar to the A4 Avant but with ride-height adjustments for off-road use. Key components include:

• Upper and lower control arms – These connect the wheel hub to the subframe and control camber and toe.
• Rear shock absorbers – Often paired with air springs in models equipped with adaptive suspension.
• Rear sway bar and links – Reduce body roll during cornering.
• Subframe and bushings – Isolate vibration and noise.
• Air springs (if equipped) – Used in the height-adjustable suspension system.

Common Wear Issues

• Control arm bushings fail – Causing clunking noises and uneven tire wear.
• Air springs leak – Leading to a sagging rear end and compressor failure.
• Shock absorbers lose damping – Resulting in a bouncy ride.
• Sway bar links break – Creating rattling sounds on bumps.

Why Choose Used Parts?

New OEM rear suspension parts for the 2013 Allroad can be expensive. A single control arm may cost $200–$400, and air springs run $500–$800 each. Used parts from reputable sources offer significant savings—often 50% to 70% off retail—while still providing reliable service. However, careful selection is critical to avoid premature failure.

Which Used Parts to Consider

1. Control Arms and Bushings

Control arms are sturdy, and used ones often have plenty of life left if the bushings are intact. Look for parts from low-mileage vehicles (under 70,000 miles) with no damage to the ball joints or rubber bushings. Avoid arms with torn boots or excessive corrosion.

2. Rear Shock Absorbers (Non-Air)

If your Allroad has standard shocks (not air suspension), used shocks can be a good buy if they show no leakage and have smooth damping. Test by compressing the shock by hand—it should rebound slowly and consistently. Any signs of oil or gas leakage mean it's worn out.

3. Air Springs

Used air springs are riskier because internal leaks are difficult to detect without installation. If you go this route, source them from a salvaged vehicle with a known working suspension. Some sellers offer short-term warranties. Inspect the rubber bellows for cracks or abrasions.

4. Sway Bar Links

These are inexpensive new, so used ones rarely offer enough savings. They often fail due to worn ball joints. Unless you get them for free, buy new.

5. Subframe and Bushings

Subframes themselves rarely need replacement, but the bushings do. Used subframes are heavy and usually unnecessary. Instead, consider new polyurethane bushings for long-term durability.

Compatibility and Fitment

All 2013 Audi Allroad models share the same rear suspension design, but there are differences between standard and adaptive (air) setups. When ordering used parts:

• Verify the part number using your VIN or a parts database.
• Confirm whether your car has air suspension – check for an air compressor under the hood or a ride-height switch.
• Ensure the donor vehicle has the same drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) or Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD). AWD models have slightly different lower control arms.
• Parts from a 2014-2016 Allroad may also fit, but confirm with a cross-reference.

Where to Find Used Parts

• Salvage yards – You can inspect parts in person. Call ahead for availability.
• Online used parts merchants – Specialized in Audi parts; they often provide photos and condition details.
• Private sellers – Through forums or local classifieds. Check seller reputation.

Avoid unknown sellers with no return policy. Always ask for the year, mileage, and condition of the donor vehicle.

How to Inspect Used Suspension Parts

When you receive the parts, perform these checks:

1. Visual inspection – Look for cracks, rust, bent metal, torn rubber, or leaking fluid.
2. Bushing condition – Rubber bushings should be firm, not cracked or excessively soft. Polyurethane bushings should have no separation.
3. Ball joint movement – On control arms, the ball joint should move smoothly without excessive play. If it grinds or feels loose, reject it.
4. Shock absorber damping – Compress and extend the shock. It should have resistance throughout the stroke. If it moves freely or makes spurting noises, it's bad.
5. Air spring integrity – Listen for hissing and check the air fitting for damage. Some sellers can pressurize them for testing.

Installation Tips

Installing rear suspension parts on the 2013 Allroad requires basic mechanical skill. Some steps:

• Always support the vehicle on jack stands. The rear subframe is heavy.
• Mark the position of the adjustment eccentrics on control arms before removal to preserve alignment.
• Use penetrating oil on seized bolts (common on subframe bolts).
• Replace any pinch bolts and nuts; they are torque-to-yield.
• After installation, get a professional alignment—especially if you replaced control arms.

If you're not comfortable with this work, have a shop do it. Labor cost is typically $400–$800 for a full rear suspension overhaul.

Cost Comparison

Here's a rough breakdown of savings using used parts vs. new OEM (per part):

| Part | New OEM | Used (good condition) | |------|---------|----------------------| | Upper control arm | $250 | $60-$100 | | Lower control arm | $300 | $80-$120 | | Rear shock (non-air) | $200 | $50-$80 | | Air spring | $600 | $200-$350 | | Sway bar link | $50 | $10-$20 |

Used parts can cut your total cost by 60% or more.

Potential Risks

• No warranty or limited warranty from sellers.
• Unknown remaining lifespan – a used part may still fail in a year.
• Compatibility errors – wrong part numbers cause return hassles.
• Hidden damage – bushing cracks or air leaks not obvious to the eye.

Mitigate these by buying from sellers who offer a 30-day return policy and by thoroughly inspecting parts before installation.

Final Recommendation

For most 2013 Audi Allroad owners, the best approach is to buy used control arms and non-air shocks from a reliable salvage yard or online parts store. These components have a long service life, and you can inspect them for obvious wear. Avoid used air springs unless you can verify they work and get a warranty. For sway bar links and suspension bushings, buy new—they are inexpensive and ensure peace of mind. Always confirm fitment with your VIN, and have a professional perform the alignment after installation. With careful selection, used rear suspension parts can restore your Allroad's ride quality without breaking the bank.