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- Fig. 1 Luggage compartment: Ball joint for towing bracket (example)
Applies to vehicles: with removable towing bracket
Special care is required when fitting and removing the towing bracket.
The removable ball joint attachment for the towing bracket is stored under the floor panel in the luggage compartment Fig. 1.
The ball joint can be fitted and removed by hand.
Equipment mounted on the towing bracket
Please note that the ball joint attachment can be damaged by using unsuitable equipment that is mounted onto the towing bracket (e.g. bicycle carrier). Due to the material construction, such damage to the towing bracket dramatically increases safety risks and in extreme cases could lead to breakage of the towing bracket while towing WARNING!.
Therefore, ensure before buying such equipment that it is suitable for mounting onto the vehicle's towing bracket and that it is approved for this purpose. In order to avoid damage to the ball joint from unsuitable equipment we recommend that equipment for the towing bracket be acquired through an Audi dealer. Also refer to Link.
- Only mount equipment on the towing bracket of your vehicle if you are certain it will not damage the bracket. Use of unsuitable equipment can result in severe damage to the towing bracket. The towing bracket could then break while pulling a trailer and cause an accident.
- Never use tools of any kind when fitting and removing the ball joint. This could damage the mechanism which locks the ball joint in place and impair its safety (accident risk).
Note
- Do not attempt to modify or repair the ball joint or other towing bracket components.
- Should you have any difficulties when using the towing bracket, or suspect that it is not fitted properly, contact a qualified workshop.
- Before setting off, always check that the ball joint is secured properly Link.
- Never disengage the ball joint with the caravan / trailer still hitched or with a bicycle rack or similar accessory still attached.
- Detach the ball joint when you are not towing a trailer. Check whether the plug is properly inserted in the mounting fixture and that the bumper cover is fitted.
- The ball joint must be removed if you intend to clean the car with a steam cleaning attachment. Check whether the plug is properly inserted in the mounting fixture and that the bumper cover is fitted.
- For installation and removal of the ball joint we recommend that the gloves provided be used.