boldkitty

Hi, 14 SQ5, 132k, 21” wheels, H&R springs, original shocks

Very Very bad ride, squeaking, etc. Will I get better ride w/ 19” wheels (more sidewall) or with new B8 Bilsteins.

I appreciate any insights.

stash64

I am very happy with the Bilsteins (B6) on my plain 2014 Q5 and that would be a very good starting point. At 132k miles, there is also a good chance some of your control arm bushings have gone bad, which can result in noise and sloppy handling. The Meyle HD control arms are a popular option and run about $700 for the complete front kit. If you change out the shocks/struts, also replace the front upper strut mount bushing (including the rubber piece between the spring and strut mount) and the upper rubber mount for the rear shocks. The rubber parts are inexpensive and easy to install while you are replacing shocks/struts.