06' A8L suspension
 

Hi all,

I've recently moved from a D2 LWB to a D3 LWB, and at this stage I cannot say I am impressed with the ride quality.

While suspension goes up/down and has no leaks or fault codes, it doesn't seem to be doing a very good job at ironing out the bumps. Any road imperfection is picked up and felt throughout the car.

I have followed "Suspension gone harsh since battery disconnect" with no luck.

Car is higher mileage (192k) but previous owner has taken great care of the car so that isn't really my concern.

Is it possible that the shock absorber part of the system has failed causing harsh ride?

+++

Is it lowered?

Completely standard.

Is it still harsh on lift?

It seems less harsh on lift.

Could well be the shocks past their best if ride is better with extended travel

Can they be replaced separately or it's whole assembly only?

In theory, you can replace them but I haven't seen any for sale (although not looked specifically).

I understand they are not cheap new.

If the shocks were worn I suspect it would be softer but bouncier. They could go hard if it was electrical problem and valve stayed completely closed all the time but it happening to all shocks at the same time is unlikely. Get somebody familiar with the D3 to have a look.

Wheel size and tyre make, model and pressure can make a big difference. Also for some aftermarket suspension arms the bushes transfer more shock than OEM so could be that if they have been changed. Not sure if track rod ends for D3 have rubber inserts but on D2 and C5 they do and it makes noticeable difference if using aftermarket solid TREs without rubber insert.