Audi A3 suspension: wishbones, control arms and fitment by generation
Which A3 generation do you have?
| Generation | Built | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8L | 1996–2003 | First generation |
| 8P | 2003–2013 | Sellers often call it the "MK2". Shares its platform with the VW Golf Mk5 and Mk6, so many titles list both cars |
| 8V | 2012–2020 | Facelift from 2016. Sold in the US from the 2015 model year |
| 8Y | 2020 on | Current generation |
Production overlaps when one generation replaces the next, so a 2012 or 2013 car can be either 8P or 8V. On many European-market cars the 7th and 8th characters of the VIN are the generation code (for example WAUZZZ8V…). Your V5C or an Audi dealer can confirm it.
What the current listings say
The table reads each listing title for the years, generation code, position and part number the seller states. It is rebuilt every time the listings are checked.
Titles that also name the A1, Q2, Q3, TT, VW Golf, SEAT or Skoda are claiming shared fitment. Confirm it with the part number.
Positions and part types
- Front lower wishbone (control arm): the main arm under each front corner. Sold singly (left or right) or as a pair.
- Rear lower and rear upper arms: the rear axle uses several arms per side. Adjustable rear upper (camber) arms are for setting rear camber, usually on lowered cars.
- Strut top mount and bearing: sits at the top of each front strut, under the bonnet.
- Brackets: hold a wishbone's rear bush to the subframe. They are a separate part from the arm.
- Kits (6, 10 or 12 pieces): bundle arms with drop links, tie rod ends or ball joints. Read what the kit contains before comparing prices.
Signs of worn arms or mounts
- Knocking or clunking over bumps, especially from one corner
- Vague or wandering steering, or the car pulling to one side
- Uneven tyre wear on the inner or outer edge
- A knock from the top of the strut when turning the steering at low speed (top mount)
Worn bushes or ball joints cause most of these. A garage can tell you which part has worn before you order.
Before you buy
- Generation and year. 8P, 8V and 8Y arms are different parts.
- Position. Front or rear, upper or lower, left or right. In UK titles O/S (offside) is the right-hand side and N/S (nearside) the left.
- Part number. Compare the number on your old part, or in a parts catalogue, with the listing.
- Version. Within one generation, rear suspension can differ with engine power, quattro four-wheel drive or sports suspension.
- What is included. Single arm, pair or kit, and whether bushes and ball joints come fitted.
Fitting
Support the car on axle stands, never on a jack alone. Rubber-bushed arms are normally tightened with the car at ride height so the bush is not twisted, using the torque figures in the workshop manual. Have the wheel alignment checked afterwards. If you are not sure, use a garage.
FAQ
Which Audi A3 generation do I have?
The 8L was built from 1996 to 2003, the 8P from 2003 to 2013, the 8V from 2012 to 2020 and the 8Y from 2020. Cars from the changeover years can be either generation, so check the VIN, your V5C or ask an Audi dealer.
Do VW Golf Mk5 or Mk6 control arms fit an Audi A3 8P?
The A3 8P shares its platform with the Golf Mk5 and Mk6, so many arms are the same part and sellers list both cars. Versions within each model differ, so compare the part number before you buy.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing A3 wishbones?
Yes. Front lower arms and rear upper or camber arms set the wheel angles, so have the alignment checked after replacing them.
What is in a 10-piece or 12-piece control arm kit?
Kits usually combine wishbones with drop links, tie rod ends or ball joints for both sides of one axle. Contents vary between sellers, so read the listing description.