Checking the dust covers of the front suspension joints
Raise the front of the car and support it on stands with the wheels hanging in the air.
Use a portable lamp to shine light on the front suspension lower ball joint dust boots (see fig 1.33) and check their condition.
Use a portable lamp to shine a light on the dust boots of the upper joints of the front suspension, as well as the dust boot of the tie rod end 1, and check their condition (see fig. 1.34).
Any wear of these covers will result in loss of lubricant and entry of water and dirt, resulting in rapid wear of the ball joints or steering gear. If there are defects, for safety reasons, at an AUDI service station, replace the relevant joint with a dust cover.
Check the tightening torque of lock nut 1 (Fig. 1.34) of the steering rod end, but do not unscrew the nut.