SurfTek's B9 SQ5 Build

[SurfTek]

Hello all,

I've been a lurker for some time, but decided about 50 days ago, I was tired of looking/driving my bone stock SQ. Big thanks to the community here since it was pretty easy to find the right parts for my needs. See reviews, photos, experiences ect. I started the build with getting the car to look right. Then the go fast mods to follow. I have a 2018 (no black optics for this year) so I first had to figure out what was the best way to get the trim to be gloss black. I ended up deciding to go with wrap vs paint. Some pros to this route are no overspray, no labor costs to remove parts, removable if wanted, cost effective. I found a local shop to basically replicate the black optics for $325. He probably regrets not charging more! lol. I'm sure the german engineers did not consider vinyl wrap when creating the grill/bumper shapes, and a good amount of skill in wrapping is needed. (Update) The wrap has failed on the horizonal elements on the front grill and fog grills. Professional painting is the proper route in my opinion if you despise your alu-optics trim.

Some breakdown from my experience you might find helpful. I personally could not pay $120 for a single plastic OEM black ring. I found all my rings and badges on ebay for about $100 total. Badges front/rear and front/rear rings from seller eurospeedtrend. These all feel/look just like the OEM badges I took off.

For painted orange reflectors I found both left and right reflectors for $85 shipped at carparts.com, I used a local shop to paint them body color for $50 Total $135.

Completed:
-Removed the V6 T badges
-Removed the black plastic extended wheel arch trim pieces
-Replaced front and rear audi rings with gloss black
-Replaced front and rear SQ5 badges with gloss black
-Gloss black wrap of all window trim
-All other alu-optic trim professionally painted gloss black
-Carbnlabs RS grill
-RS style fog inserts
-BC Forged HCS02 in 21X10 ET 30 295/35/21 tires
-CETE suspension module
-Audi OEM carbon fiber mirror caps
-Body color matched front reflectors
-Audi genuine parts slimline carbon fiber license plate frame
-Integrated Engineering Stage 1
-Integrated Engineering Stage 2 TCU
-Integrated Engineering Intake (non carbon)
-Integrated Engineering Turbo Inlet
-Forge Motorsports intercooler
-R1 Concepts drilled/slotted rotors and pads

Future mods:
Unclear atm, leaning towards enjoying the current state of the build and picking up a "B10" SQ5.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50367972192_45e870e178_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jJR2kE)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174302_a4a93e0f36_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFv9)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174117_9abe4d31c4_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFrX)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50367942697_705743764e_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jJQSz8)

[Andor]

Wow beautiful build man!

I just got mine 3 days ago and placed the same order as you for the black rings and badges through the same place. Going OEM is too much $.

Interested in the interior trim you did. You have any pictures?

[Seattle996]

Looks great.... well done. Nice and clean! How did the tune transform the car? EPL unlocked our ECU.. just waiting for them to finish so we can upload.

[SurfTek]

Wow beautiful build man!

I just got mine 3 days ago and placed the same order as you for the black rings and badges through the same place. Going OEM is too much $.

Interested in the interior trim you did. You have any pictures?

Hey Andor, thanks, and congrats on your SQ. The trim I wrapped was all exterior. I have some pics of what I sent my wrap shop below so they know what I wanted, all that was silver on my car. In 2018 there was no black optics, and no info when, or if ever that it would be offered. Audi better not pull that again!! [facepalm] S and RS cars should always have black optics as an option. I'm sure they sold less SQ5's in 2018 because of not offering it..

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[SurfTek]

Looks great.... well done. Nice and clean! How did the tune transform the car? EPL unlocked our ECU.. just waiting for them to finish so we can upload.

Thank you. Tune made a good bit of difference. The car is much smoother, and it now feels proper quick. Likely the best bang for the buck performance mod atm. The turning off the auto start/stop function was icing on the cake.

[phillyquattro]

Looking good! Nice color selection on those wheels and perfect tire choice. Did your tire mounting shop not use the valve stems that BC Forged provides? The last picture in your post makes it look like you're running different ones.

[SurfTek]

Looking good! Nice color selection on those wheels and perfect tire choice. Did your tire mounting shop not use the valve stems that BC Forged provides? The last picture in your post makes it look like you're running different ones.

Actually good question. Looks like they used the old ones, or new ones. Not sure why they didn't use the BC stems. Do they not work with TPMS or something? I also had these on the stock wheels which might of factored somehow..

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[phillyquattro]

Actually good question. Looks like they used the old ones, or new ones. Not sure why they didn't use the BC stems. Do they not work with TPMS or something? I also had these on the stock wheels which might of factored somehow..

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They should work just fine. The shop that mounted mine broke the first one as I guess they're a bit trickier to work with the mounting machine, but they got the rest of them just fine and later I had them replace the one they broke once I got more stems from BC.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Actually good question. Looks like they used the old ones, or new ones. Not sure why they didn't use the BC stems. Do they not work with TPMS or something? I also had these on the stock wheels which might of factored somehow..

Looking fantastic Ian!

You don't have direct TPMS (no sensors in wheels). They should have used the stems that BC provided.

[BLT10]

Hot. Those BCs look so good.

[SurfTek]

Installed some paint matched front reflectors today. While I didn't have to take off the wheels, or bumper. This wasn't the easiest of projects. It's only 3 torx screws>go offroad driving mode>crank wheel to opposite side>pull back fender lining. I had to destroy the stock reflectors to get them out. Then you must remove all the (old) adhesive tape on the inside of the bumper. If you don't do this, the new reflectors will not sit right. This was the most time consuming, as there is not much room for your hand, and there is large internal bumper pieces in the way. Also very easy to cause damage to the lip. A blister on each hand, and finally can call it done. Definitely worth all the effort though!! [up]

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835015126_056379fb95_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVKtLJ)reflectors (https://flic.kr/p/2iVKtLJ)

[Andor]

Nice. They look really good and the match is right on point.

I remember doing them on my MKV GLI back in the day. Such a PITA but once I took the OEM ones out, they came out much easier.

[phillyquattro]

It's such a small detail but it looks soooooo much better without the amber. Nice job earning those blisters!

[bryan03tls]

Wow. The paint is really spot on.[up]

[1S32K16]

Great work looks great, I had a shop install mine. They turned out great as far as color match but don’t seem to be as flush as they are supposed to. They probably didn’t get all the previous adhesive off. I have tried to stick my hand back there and really give it a good press but the drivers side is pretty tight for space.

[SurfTek]

Updated some of the build photos to reflect progress. Need to get someone with a proper camera to get some shots soon.

[subaruski]

Did you buy these from Tag?


Installed some paint matched front reflectors today.

[SurfTek]

Did you buy these from Tag?

No way! lol The 3-4 week wait and $230 wasn't acceptable to me. I found both left and right reflectors for $85 shipped at carparts.com, and used a local shop to paint them body color for 50$ Total $135 & 8 day turnaround.

[subaruski]

Could you share the part number for the front reflector?

Not seeing it on any of the online schematics.

https://dz310nzuyimx0.cloudfront.net/strapr1/924fac77a55ac0af933efb77853fbe49/255f5c64e19eb707bfde4e5ae97aa22e.png

Part numbers 80A-945-071-A & 80A-945-072-A

[SurfTek]

After testing out many height settings with the CETE for weeks. I have landed at a "sweet spot" for my liking. Dynamic mode /Front 34 /rear 30 seems to be the best combination of ride quality and stance (pretty bad roads near me). I took the car in for an alignment (sweet spot height), it very much needed one after the drop and wheels. They were able to get all four wheels in the green, so no uneven tire wear, but not completely back to factory spec. For those with the CETE, did you have a similar experience in regards to alignment?

[Bezlar]

Never aligned mine. Tire wear seems fine. I think I run mine a bit lower. I’ll have to look. I drive like an old grandma so our roads don’t bother me much. Lol


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[subaruski]

Have not yet aligned mine either. Tire wear seems ok too.

Dynamic setting at -40 front & -37 rear.

[Bezlar]

Have not yet aligned mine either. Tire wear seems ok too.

Dynamic setting at -40 front & -37 rear.

[emoji106] that seems like where mine are.


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[tonytonitone]

I ride at -40/-40, that's what Mops suggested when I asked the oracle. Once in awhile on a hard hit I'll pop a trim piece out but it's no big deal. I have my CETE set to return to regular height at speeds over 75.

[SurfTek]

Quick update, I ordered an RS grill from Mops. At least half of the decision to change the grill, was the wrap has started to fail on the horizonal grill elements/also on the fog grills. I believe the wrap will fail again if fixed. Updated my build recommendation to stay away from wrap except for the window trim. With a black optics grill costing about 1K, this option is out. To professionally paint the OEM grill, it would be about $500 (mostly labor cost to remove the bumper), so thought why not go RS grill for a little more. While the bumper is off I'm having all the other trim (minus the window trim) professionally painted gloss black as well.

Also had a freak accident where a large rock hit my passenger side front window on the highway. The impact spidered the glass from top to bottom. I had no choice but to replace the glass. If you have a prestige, glass cost is about x3 from the regular glass. I needed to re-tint so went with ceramic tint all around. If you have only your front two windows tinted. Consider doing your whole car. The privacy glass does not provide any heat rejection like tint does. Did 20% front, and 60% for the rest. Car feels a lot cooler after baking in the sun, and 90 degree weather lately.

[Niko702]

I have a 2019 sq5 and am highly debating on getting the cete. I am a little worried about voiding the warranty and also am not sure it'll be low enough for the investment.
Are you happy with your results with the cete?

[SurfTek]

I have a 2019 sq5 and am highly debating on getting the cete. I am a little worried about voiding the warranty and also am not sure it'll be low enough for the investment.
Are you happy with your results with the cete?

Hi Niko, the cete is removable so if you were worried about warranty issues you could always take it off before service or claim. The cete only allows you to manipulate the stock air suspension. It's not like putting a non OEM suspension into the car which tends to be worse for warranty arguments. If you do not excessively lower the car, bottom the suspension often ect, the suspension components should not fail any faster than "normal". In the end it's down to your dealership's service department and how "cool" they are with mods. My dealership knows about my cete, and they only ask that I raise the car up to stock dynamic height for work bay clearance. The cete will go VERY low. So low it has a safety feature to not allow the car to be driven at speed. I change the height often, and use taller comfort mode on longer trips. The height variation is so easy, and one of the upsides of the B9 SQ. I'm very happy with the results, stance, height, ride quality, and would buy it again.

[SurfTek]

Happened to find a new ebay listing that appears to finally be a SQ5 specific RS style fog insert. Got them on order, and will update here with install and pics when they come in. The venting location is interesting vs. OEM, but they look like they will match the main RS grill much better than the Q5 designed RS inserts.

New SQ5 specific RS style inserts (on order)
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Off vehicle OEM inserts for reference
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[S4MAXSPEED]

Just had my alignment done on Tuesday. In dynamic I'm at 36 Front and 34 Rear. The tech said it definitely needed it. He couldn't get it to his liking on the front with the factory adjustment points, so he broke the subframe loose and realigned it, and was able to get in back in specs that way. I took it to a Porsche/VW/Audi specialty shop here in Denver, Berg Performance. They do a lot of high end cars and really try to go above and beyond and are really car enthusiasts which is awesome.

So anyone who thinks you don't need an alignment with the CETE controller is probably way farther out of specs then they realize.

[SurfTek]

Just had my alignment done on Tuesday. In dynamic I'm at 36 Front and 34 Rear. The tech said it definitely needed it. He couldn't get it to his liking on the front with the factory adjustment points, so he broke the subframe loose and realigned it, and was able to get in back in specs that way. I took it to a Porsche/VW/Audi specialty shop here in Denver, Berg Performance. They do a lot of high end cars and really try to go above and beyond and are really car enthusiasts which is awesome.

So anyone who thinks you don't need an alignment with the CETE controller is probably way farther out of specs then they realize.

Agree with you. Alignment is one of those things where, until it's back in the green you don't know how bad it was off. I could feel the bad alignment particularly in corners before bringing it in. Felt so much better to drive after. Sounds like a great shop. I'm at dynamic F/33 R/29 now. Many driving in the 40's, should be even worst in the red/out of spec than our "modest" settings. Good news is we don't require an aftermarket camber kit just to get back to green/spec, which likely would make even more not care to deal with alignment.

[SurfTek]

The RS style fog inserts came yesterday. They are much more THICK than I imagined. Not flimsy at all so that is good. The OEM fog grills pull right off. Need to start pulling from the side closest to the main grill for both OEM inserts. Good news is they fit! They also provided a ACC solution for those that don't have one. That fits too. They are left and right specific, the fake acc. The snag I ran into is I don't have ACC, so I need to install the fake ACC. The bolts and nuts provided are great and will work, however to get the nut behind the bumper while holding the ACC and aligning the bolt for three holes is not something one can do with the bumper on in my observation. That stopped my install. My main grill is in the mail now so I will wait to install the fake ACC and new fog inserts when the bumper comes off for everything. If someone already has ACC it's a 5 min install. I do have one concern though, there is clearly air flow "raceways" in a middle orientation that leads to a fin stack on both sides when you take off the OEM inserts. Can anyone provide detail on what they are cooling? The new RS style inserts will cover up and block that air flow. They have air flow but all the way on one side and that does not lead directly to the fin stacks. Why the manufacturer made this design decision I would love to hear. Doesn't make sense. I almost think it would be best to try and dremel out some of the mesh holes in the middle to get that air flow back. They are thick, so will be a task no doubt. It also may not effect anything but will have to test/see.

ACC bolts to the three holes here, fits well. Not much leverage to get the nuts behind and align to the bolt without taking things apart
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Here you can see the air channel that leads to a fin stack (both sides)
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Nice gloss black that will match the main grill well
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Back
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Front
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[sweet2bad]

The RS style fog inserts came yesterday. They are much more THICK than I imagined. Not flimsy at all so that is good. The OEM fog grills pull right off. Need to start pulling from the side closest to the main grill for both OEM inserts. Good news is they fit! They also provided a ACC solution for those that don't have one. That fits too. They are left and right specific, the fake acc. The snag I ran into is I don't have ACC, so I need to install the fake ACC. The bolts and nuts provided are great and will work, however to get the nut behind the bumper while holding the ACC and aligning the bolt for three holes is not something one can do with the bumper on in my observation. That stopped my install. My main grill is in the mail now so I will wait to install the fake ACC and new fog inserts when the bumper comes off for everything. If someone already has ACC it's a 5 min install. I do have one concern though, there is clearly air flow "raceways" in a middle orientation that leads to a fin stack on both sides when you take off the OEM inserts. Can anyone provide detail on what they are cooling? The new RS style inserts will cover up and block that air flow. They have air flow but all the way on one side and that does not lead directly to the fin stacks. Why the manufacturer made this design decision I would love to hear. Doesn't make sense. I almost think it would be best to try and dremel out some of the mesh holes in the middle to get that air flow back. They are thick, so will be a task no doubt. It also may not effect anything but will have to test/see.

ACC bolts to the three holes here, fits well. Not much leverage to get the nuts behind and align to the bolt without taking things apart
194702
Here you can see the air channel that leads to a fin stack (both sides)
194703
Nice gloss black that will match the main grill well
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Back
194705
Front
194706

Looks good! Did you paint yours? they look silver (or maybe my eyesight is worse than i thought..lol)

i just got mine a few days ago as well - thanks for the pointers!

Those 'mini' radiators behind the fog inserts, are exactly that...mini (auxilliary) radiators. They are connected to the main cooling system exactly how your main radiator is connected. Apparently you can remove them with no 'notable' side effects (theres a few ppl who have removed them (for various reasons) on their audi's and they havent reported anything negative....So i dont think the slightly less airflow with the new "RS" inserts will not affect the 'auxiliary' radiators too much

[highPSI-S4]

The fog light insert look great and should compliment the RS grill perfect. My buddy said he doesn't like the OEM black optics fog light inserts against the RS grill since its so much gloss black and the fog inserts are matte black, you can barely see the gloss black accents on them.

Looking to see what you come up with for the air flow to the cooler if you decide to modify them.

[maximusBH]

While looking to buy the same RS type fog lights grills, I have found this ones which is fully perforated so might not have the question mark about the cooling of the auxiliary radiators!
What do you think guys?


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200906/100ec0904f25fbc154044122d0b46293.jpg

[kai_doy]

Can you guys give some links to these specific grills? Thanks.

[maximusBH]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/164347904027

Envoyé de mon SM-G955F en utilisant Tapatalk

[cheewy16]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/164347904027

Envoyé de mon SM-G955F en utilisant Tapatalk

Those don’t have the parking sensor holes that are needed to work with ours.

[SurfTek]

I ordered from this seller. https://www.ebay.com/itm/Black-RSQ5-Front-Honeycomb-Fog-Lamp-Grilles-Cover-For-Audi-Q5-SQ5-2018-2019/174398966457?fits=Year%3A2018%7CModel%3ASQ5%7CMake %3AAudi&hash=item289afd0ab9:g:jyMAAOSw91pfO0Ge

[kai_doy]

Thanks maximusBH and SurfTek

[SurfTek]

Got my carbnlabs RS style grill in. Here is both the main grill, and fog inserts together. SQ goes into the shop next week, these will be installed. All wrap removed and painted instead. Can't wait!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50330470117_6ae8de804f_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jFwPha)

[sweet2bad]

Got my carbnlabs RS style grill in. Here is both the main grill, and fog inserts together. SQ goes into the shop next week, these will be installed. All wrap removed and painted instead. Can't wait!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50330470117_6ae8de804f_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jFwPha)

Looks great! Mine is on its way, somewhere between China and Canada lol

Why do the left and right sigh fog inserts look different? It appears the passenger side honeycomb is partially blocked, and the drivers side honeycomb is completely unblocked - am i seeing that correctly?

[SurfTek]

Looks great! Mine is on its way, somewhere between China and Canada lol

Why do the left and right sigh fog inserts look different? It appears the passenger side honeycomb is partially blocked, and the drivers side honeycomb is completely unblocked - am i seeing that correctly?

The venting is the same for both, think what your seeing is light reflection.

Here's a daylight shot.
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[BrockDM]

That's going to look awesome! I don't think I've seen an B9 SQ with RS style grill yet

[Chris.green]

That's going to look awesome! I don't think I've seen an B9 SQ with RS style grill yet

Hey! Get back in the s4 forum!

There have been a few people so far that have put them on

[BrockDM]

Hey! Get back in the s4 forum!

There have been a few people so far that have put them on

Haha I guess I need to lurk more often then! [emoji102]

Any RS grill plans for you Chris??

[Chris.green]

Haha I guess I need to lurk more often then! [emoji102]

Any RS grill plans for you Chris??

Not at the moment, one day I probably will though!

[djsnowman777]

will these fit on the sq5 even if i dont have those center lens ?


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[djsnowman777]

nevermind, i just read the entire post. i like the fogs. might pull the trigger. dont have the acc but you say it works so


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[sweet2bad]

nevermind, i just read the entire post. i like the fogs. might pull the trigger. dont have the acc but you say it works so


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The fog inserts are designed to fit the acc model and non-acc models; the seller asks for confirmation which one you have before they ship.

The acc specific insert fits around/over your acc sensor (the acc sensor status in its original position)

The non-acc insert comes with a 'block-off' cover that mimics the acc sensor look

As mentioned earlier, these inserts are very sturdy; i was quite surprised seeing as it's a knock off eBay special. I was expecting cheap flimsy plastic; I've bought similar inserts for my previous s5 and they would crack of you looked at them the wrong way

[SurfTek]

Well have about 4 hours into this grill. My local shop took the car apart. Front bumper, flush rails and rear bumper all came off for alu-optics painting. I took over the grill prep. I called around and asked what methods people use for the front camera. One mentioned adhesive. I chose to go with adhesive. I wanted the cleanest cable routing and the less behind the grill the better. Here's some pics and some info you might find helpful. I used what I had on hand, including industrial strengh velcro (pointy side) and put it over the adhesive as an extra fail safe. Lastly clear silicone on the front and back of the camera mount/hole. So water can't even get to the adhesive. I fabricated a mount for the OEM SQ5 badge, and changed out the quattro letters. If you want to change the rings, the 4H0853605B2ZZ part number fits the RS grill.

I used two different types of adhesive. Both strong marine grade/waterproof. First was liquid based, other was thicker. The liquid I used first, used painters tape on the camera and camera hole from the front to stop the glue getting where it shouldn't. This worked well. Used the thicker glue to build up a few layers on the back of the grill. It's solid and not going anywhere.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357210072_9cb3ec2e6d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTS8S)

If you cut off the cable ties/clips you can route the top cable run into the top. I used the thicker adhesive at a few points to keep it down. If you route in this way it can't be seen thru the grill.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50356347188_799e6b5476_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHPrCy)

For the parking sensor run, there is a gap to route the cable into if you remove the clips. The sensor cables are a little short so it will not go 100% into the gap. 4 points of adhesive here I beleive.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357050326_ef01917b3f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHT3DC)

Very small amount of anything showing thru. All that time spent seems to be worth it.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50356347598_675396882d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHPrKC)

[SurfTek]

Finally the end result. Love the new look. My shop did a fantastic job getting it painted and put back together. Additional items I asked they do. Remove the foam and paint the crash bar black. Modify the OEM fog insert air channels for maximum intake from the new venting on the RS style inserts. What do you guys think?

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174302_a4a93e0f36_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFv9)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174117_9abe4d31c4_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFrX)

[Chris.green]

This looks great! The issue I always had with doing an rs grill was the non matching lower grills. This makes me want to do it a lot more.

I also noticed today when I had my bumper off is that they have updated the cooling system I guess. I only have a extra rad on the drive side. There is nothing at all on the passenger side and the lower grill is actually completely closed to prevent any air flow at all.

[DiscoDan]

Very clean install [up]

[cheewy16]

Front end now looks 🔥

[Mops@Nemesis]

Looks awesome Ian!

[Bezlar]

Wow. Looks great.


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[1S32K16]

Looks awesome 🔥🔥🔥. The lower grilles really make it fit better.

[phillyquattro]

Yeah....that's looking soooooooooo much better. Wow. Moar pics! Can you snap one at an angle like this (https://www.flickr.com/photos/fractionofawhole/50256602568/in/dateposted-public/)? Would love to see what the 3/4 front angle looks like.

[Makes Centz]

Finally the end result. Love the new look. My shop did a fantastic job getting it painted and put back together. Additional items I asked they do. Remove the foam and paint the crash bar black. Modify the OEM fog insert air channels for maximum intake from the new venting on the RS style inserts. What do you guys think?

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174302_a4a93e0f36_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFv9)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50356312198_174352b6e5_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHPgeh)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357174117_9abe4d31c4_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHTFrX)

Can i just add that this looks ridiculously SICK AF. Good shit bro. How much was the grill and fog inserts?

[SurfTek]

Yeah....that's looking soooooooooo much better. Wow. Moar pics! Can you snap one at an angle like this (https://www.flickr.com/photos/fractionofawhole/50256602568/in/dateposted-public/)? Would love to see what the 3/4 front angle looks like.

Yes sir, will do.

[SurfTek]

Can i just add that this looks ridiculously SICK AF. Good shit bro. How much was the grill and fog inserts?

Think it was...
$560 main grill
$200 fog inserts

[SurfTek]

Yeah....that's looking soooooooooo much better. Wow. Moar pics! Can you snap one at an angle like this (https://www.flickr.com/photos/fractionofawhole/50256602568/in/dateposted-public/)? Would love to see what the 3/4 front angle looks like.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50365522712_0b8044230e_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jJCtcf)

[sandman00]

Beautiful well done [emoji106]


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[phillyquattro]

Yeeeesssssssssssssss. That's looking very, very nice. I tweaked that photo a bit to bring out the details in the grille a bit more. The fog inserts really complete the look. Making it difficult for me to not go spend some money right now. lol.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50367991178_b9686b8165_h.jpg

[SurfTek]

[QUOTE=phillyquattro;14289994]Yeeeesssssssssssssss. That's looking very, very nice. I tweaked that photo a bit to bring out the details in the grille a bit more. The fog inserts really complete the look. Making it difficult for me to not go spend some money right now. lol.

Do it!! You know you want too lol

[AR_Motorwerkz]

New grille looking great!

[Freddyb5s4]

Looks incredible!

[SurfTek]

Ordered a Forge intercooler from MOPS. After seeing the detailed IAT temps/graphs from APR. I'm thinking an intercooler really isn't optional especially with a tune. I needed black to stay with my darker theme, and Forge does make some great IC's. Plan to DIY on the install.

[SurfTek]

Thought I'd put this here just in case it helps someone else. With a RS grill and no US plate mount this is what I came up with for when I need to run a front plate. It's not perfect, but the plate is secure and not going anywhere. Also a few mins to take off. I don't like off center or low plates so this fit the bill.

The two solid grill holes on the RS grill is where you can screw or bolt/nut the front plate. You already should have two screw holes from the manufacturer pre-attaching a euro plate. So your not even putting new holes in your new RS grill. I got these two items and it securely mounts.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I cut up the silicone and glued it to the back of the bracket. No chance of damage to the grill. Also did another OEM audi slimline carbon plate frame for a pop of carbon to match the carbon mirrors.

Silicone backing to protect the grill
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344911_f59d01c632_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHMH)

Front of bracket. Plate gets 4 strong points of contact and secures well.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344891_991e94e765_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHMn)

Two long screws and washers will secure it to the grill. The bracket allows room to adjust.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510508372_7cef9d8a75_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXryo1)

Mounted
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50509632918_53b7a03519_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXn58Y)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50509632988_087c03b520_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXn5ab)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344861_0d82be013a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHLR)

[sweet2bad]

Thought I'd put this here just in case it helps someone else. With a RS grill and no US plate mount this is what I came up with for when I need to run a front plate. It's not perfect, but the plate is secure and not going anywhere. Also a few mins to take off. I don't like off center or low plates so this fit the bill.

The two solid grill holes on the RS grill is where you can screw or bolt/nut the front plate. You already should have two screw holes from the manufacturer pre-attaching a euro plate. So your not even putting new holes in your new RS grill. I got these two items and it securely mounts.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I cut up the silicone and glued it to the back of the bracket. No chance of damage to the grill. Also did another OEM audi slimeline carbon plate frame for a pop of carbon to match the carbon mirrors.

Silicone backing to protect the grill
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344911_f59d01c632_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHMH)

Front of bracket. Plate gets 4 strong points of contact and secures well.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344891_991e94e765_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHMn)

Two long screws and washers will secure it to the grill. The bracket allows room to adjust.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510508372_7cef9d8a75_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXryo1)

Mounted
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50509632918_53b7a03519_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXn58Y)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50509632988_087c03b520_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXn5ab)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50510344861_0d82be013a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jXqHLR)

I got my "rs" grill and fogs mounted last week... Surprised everything went in so easy/no complications.

I just left my front plate off, because it takes away from the RS grill visual effect.... Yes, the plate is required by law here, but as anal as the cops are here in Ontario, they don't pay too much attention when they see it's an suv (and the driver is not some young guy)

[SurfTek]

I got my "rs" grill and fogs mounted last week... Surprised everything went in so easy/no complications.

I just left my front plate off, because it takes away from the RS grill visual effect.... Yes, the plate is required by law here, but as anal as the cops are here in Ontario, they don't pay too much attention when they see it's an suv (and the driver is not some young guy)

Nice! So you didn't end up waiting until after winter? Agree prefer it without a plate. Been keeping it that way since install and haven't been hassled yet. Would love to see a pic of your SQ if you care to share.

[sweet2bad]

Nice! So you didn't end up waiting until after winter? Agree prefer it without a plate. Been keeping it that way since install and haven't been hassled yet. Would love to see a pic of your SQ if you care to share.

yeah...i caved and i did the grill..i was getting bored and couldn't wait until spring (winter is a long season here)....

The grill is really sturdy, so i have confidence about it standing up to snow/ice hitting it (knock on wood)

i know i'll have to pull the bumper off again in spring if i get the intercooler...but thats like 6 months from now

I powder-coated the rims a month ago (i wasnt ready to drop thousands on new wheels and rubber) and blacked out (well bought matte black) emblems for the entire truck
https://photos.app.goo.gl/xEimqJGARE7e8GbZ9


Here's the grills done (the truck hasnt been washed in like 3 weeks...woops)
https://photos.app.goo.gl/CWE5AJbP3QEGtGc29

[SurfTek]

yeah...i caved and i did the grill..i was getting bored and couldn't wait until spring (winter is a long season here)....

The grill is really sturdy, so i have confidence about it standing up to snow/ice hitting it (knock on wood)

i know i'll have to pull the bumper off again in spre=ing if i get the intercooler...but thats like 6 months from now

I powdercoated the rims a month ago (i wasnt ready to drop thousands on new wheels and rubber) and blacked out (well bought matte black) emblems for the entire truck
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fGkEipPv7n_NaAhv5Ac435yc4xKOc4BlwiTXp_Pol7UcLbM_Ri SLNAOR9VCF4qZaI6IoHjQjG4QP9CsjHCw-nFbIqpbgyN2dt-OCePxcBWg_P-ghVir6uXIGxqrcz1i5Dkeca2DkfH9Mwb3iTcUsYsB92iQMS8Vs C56iDKM-1vn_GWSaJ6_VzkC3oY_p4H-0jWAput0MqT9ZwFIFPSy1h6ZiQbdYXkBurV7MW0EIzhIFqtfMl oHbZOZ-gvDvXx1SMT-gHe2f6wqpl7XGxJTutcYLLtsIEpblp4LOrM2P8Zoa9iWdaM34R vgCpDeoSSs7-DqiSaYNCuQ3Z0cSeIJ085hT9cOb9AR9LF3lL0Q9OyLtRVXmB0I eQ1XPv-1nuEbbD6bgp88IiY5WQrwQftQB16hjXt_yQ0BcDCtgrfayXNR_ AbIKLkhFD8EiRVaTyMcwDp8PWFGFtvzGMyDImJmo5oIw43i7dV XogMwBe2rUHbx95kB1OlC5wNCKcoNBW0d-qU7J8rKEWwPTzF_RXGhN62s-_VQ414MEkvuSh73nlT9qkUs4Y3ZokjrOTRCSor5ikDuZitmlHN KbrmwIfiUM27CGPwLZI6A1KzMh_bLHplhIn_tyyhSLWYfDq7KD YKq_OSdb0VBiH0mVNCqkrrfEY92ytSK2MeKl1ZVJ9X2kPdKhPE H4nCLS5yDQXFvKYg=w1920-h910-no?authuser=0


Here's the grills done (the truck hasnt been washed in like 3 weeks...woops)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ehrWq2AqnXdOqCESLT0E8Y-kNqHcmqHRIVOZPDeAEWBnULkq7QICHBecAclfUiApXZImcjlTB J1oc_Jz_e8E1ywXT13Pv7Bws9UcsXUlX24vRQZjGq4o-Obwu5g11L6dKZh4DbrDBulzWRuwkR-41RT0tVV6BbGas873dy7_Bb9qOu4omgjsdmM4F1CfkqAxBe5eT vUg_XmVbWpcshYtMd0VsZimKFHR6bcikHJal75d2yIdi5ICT6N HB4m3NNPTWLgUx_NmY-L_3QiFFoi11uwS4NVp46rlG_pl3NbXRiH74m3E9Rcnm9yTDdeH iZcvVoxZhYpCgQoXtwqp76oxdhHAVv-4viZqjxMVW69jVE1B89jgguk-EecZkOCFGE98VWrA1v8K-zFB_HGatnOQDc9vPsR1Qm5Z5w54hkxlj9UUpUPOdAHYA5lZpTq p2Mo4z0M2wQyz_k5e_JkuakvLnmDdgZlxtDYEZ-DTgOWygpmVLtJJ4D9Kg-2sI0czGdXH8lBC0E_nvz-YACm2T1kNe5Zj2r_QtDIX4McDg4WFkZlJxG5LC45V5qkJvUgsR GJkohG_q9w2BT3DfTcDWenjeGaVKVTkhBAXEslFwE3gMoi78RO xAlmaGJgMJDpgwqd2O5CbRCZBEAdRHzjNOi7iyllTLvtV2K0qN FRQkh_FtnLh0hE0ErwWMQd8gShONw=s969-no?authuser=0

If you put an attachment, or web link. Not seeing it show up.

[sweet2bad]

If you put an attachment, or web link. Not seeing it show up.

i added the link...'should' work now

[SurfTek]

i added the link...'should' work now

Nice![up] Looks great with the DG color

[sweet2bad]

Nice![up] Looks great with the DG color

Thanks!

i'll black out the mirrors and window trim next spring (like you did)....possible lower it or do intercooler

speaking of window trim, how did you black it out? did you pull the trim out (which i've done on previous cars, but was a REAL PITA), or...?

[SurfTek]

Thanks!

i'll black out the mirrors and window trim next spring (like you did)....possible lower it or do intercooler

speaking of window trim, how did you black it out? did you pull the trim out (which i've done on previous cars, but was a REAL PITA), or...?

My window trim was wrapped professionally with the trim on. The wrap seems to be fine with the window trim shape and has held up well 7+ months later. It's the only parts the wrap didn't have issues though. Can't tell it's not paint like the rest so left it on.

[SurfTek]

Installed the Forge IC. Did the work myself and it's a pretty straight forward install. A few pro tips if you DIY that I haven't seen mentioned. Remove the crash bar! (only 4 bolts) This will make your install a lot easier. I had to modify the passenger side air guard/seal. Not by much, but you have to remove some plastic to get it to go back on once the Forge is bolted up. Area to modify is right above where the inlet hose attaches. Also this is a good time to remove rocks/leafs/trash/bugs that have built up. If you pay a shop to install, make sure they don't leave that stuff.

Passenger side, you can also see where I modified the aux rad air channels
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50544544382_c8f332bdca_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2k1s16L)

Drivers side
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50543683713_113b028d47_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2k1nAfD)

All bolted up
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50543670948_ca890ff88c_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2k1nwsy)

The OEM IC looks comically small compared to the Forge
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50543668178_0835bb1bd7_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2k1nvCN)

Looking real stealth behind the RS grill.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50544389316_720b96adfd_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2k1rd1d)

[Mops@Nemesis]

Well done Ian 👏🏼 Fantastic unit, too.

[SurfTek]

Well done Ian 👏🏼 Fantastic unit, too.

Thanks Ben, and appreciate the fast shipping!

[chrizatch]

Hey there, awesome upgrade! @Surftek

I'm checking out the Carbnlab package on their website, two questions please. 1. Did it come with the for lamp pieces at the $599 price point, it's not clear on their site. 2. Did you go for the chrome or black Audi rings, in some of your pics they look to have a bit of chrome others look black.

Thanks!

[Hostile]

Nice, another Virginia SQ5!

[Chris.green]

Hey there, awesome upgrade! @Surftek

I'm checking out the Carbnlab package on their website, two questions please. 1. Did it come with the for lamp pieces at the $599 price point, it's not clear on their site. 2. Did you go for the chrome or black Audi rings, in some of your pics they look to have a bit of chrome others look black.

Thanks!

Carbnlab doesn’t sell the lower bumper grills. eBay will be your best bet for them.

[SurfTek]

Hey there, awesome upgrade! @Surftek

I'm checking out the Carbnlab package on their website, two questions please. 1. Did it come with the for lamp pieces at the $599 price point, it's not clear on their site. 2. Did you go for the chrome or black Audi rings, in some of your pics they look to have a bit of chrome others look black.

Thanks!

The fog grills are sourced from ebay. The seller is linked earlier in this thread. I used gloss black for all my rings and badging.

[SettlingAbyss96]

I got my lower fog grilles today and noticed that they completely block off the radiators behind them, instead directing air into a different part of the bumper. Has anyone had issues with this? I tried cutting out the honeycomb shape, but because of how thick the plastic is that's not really plausible. I'm considering drilling them out then cleaning it up with a Dremel.

[ccoop6]

Got my carbnlabs RS style grill in. Here is both the main grill, and fog inserts together. SQ goes into the shop next week, these will be installed. All wrap removed and painted instead. Can't wait!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50330470117_6ae8de804f_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jFwPha)

Where did you get the fog inserts? Thanks! I just got my Floret Silver B9 and love the blacked trim like you did to yours.

[SurfTek]

Been enjoying the SQ5 with the current state of the build for awhile now. My B9 is out of warranty, so been looking at the new tuning options, interesting, but higher stages look like a downpipe is required. I don't see anyone mentioning that shops will not install it, everyone stuck with DIY? Also what is everyone doing to pass state required emissions/inspection testing?

I have the old G APR stage 1 tune, the first and only tune at the time in April 2020. It's been great, stable, and smooth. I have the 1.0 file, and now there is a 2.1. I'm first going to update to the new file $70 vs. jumping ship. There was a huge torque increase added. I'll update here and in the APR tread, since I haven't seen anyone talk about from old to post 2022 update. Also time for new rotors and pads, got a killer deal on R1 concepts for both axles so updates to follow.

[SurfTek]

R1 Concepts rotors and pads for all four wheels. $530 shipped. Geomet drilled/slotted and European
ceramic pads. These pics were after days of hard rain, these rotors do not rust up like the stock ones do. Highly recommend planning to replace the brake pad sensors as well. DIY job, fairly easy, just takes time.

295160


295159


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine Forum (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=87676)

[BrosephSQ5]

R1 Concepts rotors and pads for all four wheels. $530 shipped. Geomet drilled/slotted and European
ceramic pads. These pics were after days of hard rain, these rotors do not rust up like the stock ones do. Highly recommend planning to replace the brake pad sensors as well. DIY job, fairly easy, just takes time.

295160


295159


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine Forum (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=87676)

Looking good my man!


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine Forum (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=87676)

[ccoop6]

R1 Concepts rotors and pads for all four wheels. $530 shipped. Geomet drilled/slotted and European
ceramic pads. These pics were after days of hard rain, these rotors do not rust up like the stock ones do. Highly recommend planning to replace the brake pad sensors as well. DIY job, fairly easy, just takes time.

295160


295159


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine Forum (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=87676)

Looks good! Any weight savings?


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine Forum

[1RAudiSQ5]

My B9 is out of warranty, so been looking at the new tuning options, interesting, but higher stages look like a downpipe is required. Also what is everyone doing to pass state required emissions/inspection testing?

I have been wondering the same. Seems like the only option would be to remove it before VA emissions?

[Hostile]

I have been wondering the same. Seems like the only option would be to remove it before VA emissions?

Catted downpipes don’t pass VA emissions?

[SurfTek]

I have been wondering the same. Seems like the only option would be to remove it before VA emissions?

Seems like that would be a PITA at once a year

[SurfTek]

Catted downpipes don’t pass VA emissions?

Unknown.... anyone in VA with a downpipe that can confirm or deny?

[1RAudiSQ5]

Catted downpipes don’t pass VA emissions?

From what NGP told me... No. HFC would have to be removed and put the stock one back on. That is what my buddy with a B8 does.

[sunofnun]

Question for you Guys about the lower grills.. has anyone put additional fog/driving lights in there (obviously for those without acc)

I'm about to do a full set of grills, and am looking around for something cool that will work for out application.

[Sam3006]

Car looks wicked. Did you have to use 90 degree parking sensors or cut the crash bar at all when you installed the grill?

Also did you remove the polystyrene cover on the crash bar? Yh and

[SurfTek]

Been off the forum for awhile thought I'd update the build. Added I.E's Stage 1 tune and Stage 2 TCU tune. Also added an I.E. Intake and turbo inlet. The car was so quiet before, hearing some turbo noises has really improved the enjoyment of pedal mashing. Car is paid off and still enjoy this platform til this day. Does everything I need. Curious when, or if we will see a B10 SQ5.

[SurfTek]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20250125/243ec9f745a2e3f098a09c48fab98ce4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20250125/48095325099bf0e56461f88ee5e241a0.jpg

[SurfTek]

Car very recently popped a sport diff malfunction. Pops every time the car starts. Replaced battery, cleared and it’s back. Scan says a hard code for control module generic B[emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji6[emoji640][emoji637]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]][emoji[emoji638][emoji639][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji640]]] number. Anyone have experience with this issue, or know the next item to check/replace?