Drive Axle, Removing And Installing: Removing

-- Loosen the connection between the drive axle and wheel hub. Refer to DRIVE AXLE THREADED CONNECTION, LOOSENING AND TIGHTENING .

-- Remove the wheel.

-- Remove the coil spring. Refer to SPRING, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Remove the rear muffler with brackets. Refer to EXHAUST PIPES/MUFFLERS for engine code CALA, EXHAUST PIPES/MUFFLERS for engine codes CAED, CAEB, CPMB, CPMA, or EXHAUST PIPES/MUFFLERS for engines CCBA, CGXC, CTUB .

-- Remove the rear final drive. Refer to OVERVIEW - FINAL DRIVE for Rear Final Drive 0BC, 0BD, 0BE and 0BF, or OVERVIEW - REAR FINAL DRIVE for Rear Final Drive 0BF and 0BE - Sport Differential.

Applies Only to the Left Drive Axle

Fig 1: Identifying Tensioning Strap

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Install the tensioning strap -1-. Install the bolt -2- and tighten by hand.

-- Unlock and remove the connector -5- from the Left Rear Level Control System Sensor -G76-.

Fig 2: Releasing Connector From Left ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Unclip the wiring harness -4-, if applicable.

Continuation for Both Drive Shafts

Fig 3: Identifying Rear Speed Sensor & Bolt

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Remove the Rear ABS Wheel Speed Sensor -- -1- by removing the bolt -2-.

-- Remove the drive axle toward the inside.