[Paulyrow]

Hi Everyone

I have a 2005 A8 quattro SE 3.0 Tdi which is excellent in every aspect except for a persistent knock from I suspect the front suspension, or second guess the gearbox/engine mounts. I have had it checked out by two different specialists to no avail.

If we were in the 1960’s or 1970’s it would be easy to diagnose as it sounds just like the exhaust knocking on bodywork when a strap has broken. It isn’t that though.

The car is due an MOT which it will pass as there is no play, or worn parts, no air leaks and the suspension operates on all levels. There are no fault codes using VCDS either

It has been suggested I have a “lazy” nearside front strut and replacing it might solve the issue. I think it is false economy changing one so I would change both sides and this leads me to the next dilemma. I can get Aerosus exchange “bags” at a fair price or Chinese manufactured ones also at a reasonable price, both with two-year guarantees.

I am not adverse to buying either, I just want the best option so any positive comments would be appreciated.

This with fitting, which I am not capable of doing myself (not a technician, no tools, no inclination and no self-confidence) means a budget of £1,000 and not a cast iron assurance that this will cure it. This makes it a gamble.

I like my cars to be as they left the factory so I do not want upgrades, go faster spec, lowered, widened or stiffened anythings bolted on. I simply want this knock resolved.

The alternative is to sell it and buy a D4, but I could conceivably spend another £7000 (minimum) and be faced with another set of elusive issues as with my buying power I would be looking at an eight-year-old car.

So, the other man’s grass may not be any greener.

What I am hoping for, is some advice, suggestions, recommendations or an offer to solve this. This cannot be the only D3 with this noise

It is annoying because apart from this knocking, which resembles a persistent door-to-door salesperson hoping to sell me Betterware, Avon, or eternal salvation, the car is great.

Any help would be appreciated