DSG-equipped Audis — the B8/B8.5 (A4/S4/RS4, A5/S5/RS5, Q5/SQ5, Allroad) and B9/B9.5 (A4/S4, A5/S5, Q5/SQ5) generations — both use a factory transmission mount with a rubber insert that softens noticeably with age and mileage, showing up as extra vibration through the cabin and a looser, less connected feel on gear changes under load. Like the MQB engine mount insert, the fix is a direct insert swap rather than a full mount replacement.
Tools You'll Need
Make sure you're ordering the correct generation for your car — the B8/B8.5 and B9/B9.5 mounts are not interchangeable even though the symptom and installation process are nearly identical. You'll also need a jack and stands, a floor jack with a padded block, and standard hand tools for the mount bracket fasteners.
How to Tell If It's the Mount
With the engine idling in neutral, a helper watching from the engine bay while you blip the throttle should see excess movement concentrated at the transmission mount if it's worn. A clunk or extra vibration specifically on gear changes under load, rather than a constant vibration at all times, points toward the mount rather than an engine mount or driveline issue.
Step 1: Support the Transmission
With the car raised and supported, position a padded jack under the transmission and take up just enough weight to unload the mount — not lift the whole powertrain.
Step 2: Remove the Mount Bracket
Unbolt the mount bracket from the transmission and/or subframe per your specific generation's fastener layout, supporting the mount housing as you separate it.
Step 3: Press Out the Old Insert
Remove the worn rubber insert from the housing and inspect the housing itself for cracks or corrosion before installing the new one.
Step 4: Install the New Insert
Seat the correct-generation aluminum insert fully and evenly into the housing, reinstall the bracket, and torque all fasteners to factory spec.
Step 5: Remove Support and Road Test
Lower the jack slowly, confirm the mount is taking load smoothly, and drive through the same conditions that originally showed the symptom to confirm it's resolved.
Common Mistakes
- Ordering the wrong generation insert — confirm B8/B8.5 vs. B9/B9.5 before purchasing; they look similar but don't interchange
- Fully lifting the powertrain instead of just unloading the mount — can stress other mounts and hoses
- Reusing stretched or corroded mount bolts — cheap insurance against a repeat job
See our full Audi tool lineup for more B8 and B9-specific chassis parts.