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 front wheel. Refer to WHEELS AND TIRES .

-- Remove the shield or subframe shield upper section. Refer to SUBFRAME SHIELD, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

Q7 e-tron: 

Fig 1: Identifying Upper Control Arms And Bolts

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Disconnect the threaded connection -1-.

-- Remove the joint pins in the upper control arm -2- from the wheel bearing housing.

Continuation for All Vehicles: 

Fig 2: Drive Axle Bolts

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Remove the drive axle heat shield. Refer to DRIVE AXLE HEAT SHIELD, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Remove the bolts -arrows- that connect the drive axle and flange shaft.

-- Remove the drive axle, and do not damage the CV boot and the drive axle coating while doing so.