4 shocks in as many months

[el_ringo]

Hi,

Sorry to drag up the old DRC debate but I have managed 4 new shocks in nearly as many months. In May I had both rear shocks including both the valves done. The next month the OSR shock leaked and was replaced on its own and then today the OSR has been replaced for the third time.

What is the current guide about what should be replaced? Should the valves be replaced with a shock? I was expecting a few visits a year with the DRC but it is getting silly.

R

[GardinerG]

The valves only need to be replaced if the pressure is too low due to leaks IIRC.

I'm having it ripped out and the Bilstein PSS9 put in.

[nrf]

Mine is currently having all four shocks and both valves done. Dealer actually said to me "only two shocks are leaking but as they are both at the front that means we need to do all four and both valves". Two of the shocks were done in December last year (previous owner) but not sure the valve was done. The best bit is that the warranty is paying for it - that and I now get to discover how its meant to handle!

[Dave500]

Two of the shocks were done in December last year (previous owner) but not sure the valve was done.

Hi mate you still got the car then its it now behaving..... As far as I know they didn't replace the valve.

[nrf]

Yup - still have it! Engine management light issue fixed when they found a sticky valve in the emissions control system which was confusing the system. I had loan cars for my first 3 weeks of owning the RS! Have had 3000 touble free miles now. Even starts when its warm! God knows how much they spent on it tracking down that valve! DRC now finally being addressed too. Thanks for your help!!

[Dave500]

Its good to hear everything has now been sorted out. The car must be like new

[el_ringo]

I have to admit, the car has been the best it has been with this new shock. I wonder how long it will last?

[HyOctane]

Anytime you replace any shocks, you must also replace the corresponding central valves as well as properly refilling the system (shocks and lines) from a negative pressure (vacuum). The operating pressure should be between 12-14 bar. It can be checked with a special gauge by your tech to see if it is properly pressurized. Anything under 12 bar means improper repair/function and needs to be redone. the good news is that Audi will soon be offering a special toolkit that will allow the central valves to be recharged rather than having to purchase new ones every time. This should speed up repairs and reduce costs significantly.

Cheers!

[Jani]

My suspension is now giving a squeeking sound when driving, is this normal with DRC-failure? Even standing still, if you push the rear to make suspension move, it makes a squeeking sound.

I would appreciate a print or a link to official guidelines with DRC. What does the factory maintenance manual say, what is the correct procedure to fix the suspension?

[rs6nick]

I spoke to the Audi technician in Aberdeen who advised when replacing DRC parts to replace the alluminium washers belween the valve-hose-shockers with brass washers. Apparently failure often occures due to corrosion at these connections.