Steering wheel trim A4 8K

Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:11.

Hi,
Are these rubber-metal bushings on the guide rods at the rear of the front axle, connecting to the body (are they broken/defective according to TÜV standards)?
Both show cracks running around the entire rubber surface.
If so, is it worth replacing the bushings with that mileage (170,000 km), or should I just replace the entire steering rack?

For the ball joint separator, Audi uses the part number T40010A. It's available at a high price as the Hazet 1790-4, and slightly cheaper as the Kukko 129-3-A. Does anyone know of a good, high-quality alternative?
hg
Herbert.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:12.

Is this photo taken when the device is powered on or off?

Does noticeable play exist, and if so, does the car feel unstable or "floaty"?

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:13.

Hi,
The vehicle is on its wheels. No complaints regarding the driving.
hg
Herbert.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:13.

To be honest, with such minimal cracking and no impact on handling, I wouldn't do anything... new handlebars are more likely to break.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:13.

Hi,
The question is, what the people in the pit lane are saying. Because I have to go through there. The cracks are already more than 1mm deep and extend beyond the surface.
hg
Herbert.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:14.

My Dekra inspector has a lenient approach, so it would probably pass.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:15.

Go back to Go.

Quote:

Hi,
Are these rubber-metal bushings on the guide rods at the rear of the front axle, connecting to the body (are they broken/defective according to TÜV standards)?
Both show cracks running around the entire rubber surface.
If so, is it worth replacing the bushings with a mileage of 170,000 km, or should I just replace the entire steering column?

For the ball joint separator, Audi uses the part number T40010A. It's available at a high price as the Hazet 1790-4, and slightly cheaper as the Kukko 129-3-A. Does anyone know of a high-quality alternative?

hg
Herbert.

dieselschrauber · Translated on 05-07-2026, 16:17.

Quote:

For the ball joint, Audi calls the extractor T40010A. It's available at a high price as the Hazet 1790-4, and slightly cheaper as the Kukko 129-3-A. Does anyone know of a high-quality alternative?

Hi,

I use some specialized tools, such as pullers and extractors, from brands like BGS, SW-Stahl, and TengTools.
For me, the quality is comparable to Hazet!
If these manufacturers have the product I'm looking for and the price is right, I would buy it without hesitation!

At relevant trade shows (Automechanika, Essen Motor Show, etc.), you can often find discounted (hand) tools, including Hazet

, thanks to special offers.

Best regards, Richard.