SQ5 cold temp shudder during slow full lock turn
 

When performing slow full lock turns, the tires seem to break traction then regrip, resulting in a shudder noise as if the front wheels are traveling at different angles thus wanting to snag and release the tension (sort of "duh dom duh dom" noise). Seems to be happening only in cold temps when the car has been standing outside for a while, so cold temps might have something to do with it (possibly less traction in cold temps allowing the tires to skip?). Car has OEM 21" wheels with Pirelli rubber so I know I have to switch to winter rubber, but just wondering if anyone else has noticed this?

Yup, I've noticed this even with the winter wheels/tires on. I assumed it's normal, because loaner Q5 with all seasons did it too.

I guess "normal" has escalated to a new meaning.

It's an "Audi thing".. Even though there's a center differential, you still get a little bit of binding in very tight turns. All Audis since with the Torsen center diffs have done what you describe.

My 2010 S5 did the same thing

Because it drives like a snow plow. Inside wheel has more angle on sharp turns.

Then cold tires don't grip well and slip.

Thanks for the feedback. Never felt it in my S4 and A4, both with Quattro. Just hope it doesn't cause any damage, because the thud it produces is scary to the point where my passengers look at me with the "wft" face.

+2, any all wheel drive / four wheel drive vehicle does this.

+1
 

I had this even back to my first quattro--a 96 A6. More noticeable in that one than my more recent ones, but its part of the nature of full time AWD, at least Torsen style.

Mine does this and is actually booked in tomorrow for them to check it. Will report back. Mine does it hard right hand down in reverse most often.