Audi Q5 problems

The Audi Q5 is a series of compact luxury crossover SUVs produced by the German luxury car manufacturer Audi from 2008. The original first-generation (Typ 8R) model was the third member of the B8 family to be released after the Audi A5 and fourth-generation A4, all being based on the Audi MLB platform. The second generation Q5 (Typ 80A) debuted in 2016 and shares the Audi MLB Evo platform with the corresponding B9 versions of the A4 and A5.
First generation (Typ 8R; 2008)
Audi Cross Cabriolet quattro concept (2007)
A concept vehicle for the then upcoming Q5, this was a 2-door convertible with a 3.0 TDI engine rated at 240 PS (177 kW; 237 hp) and 500 N⋅m (369 lbf⋅ft) torque, quattro permanent four wheel drive, 8-speed automatic transmission, Copper Sunset body, LED headlights, 21-inch wheels with 265/35R21 tyres, seats with White Stone leather upholstery, MMI, 505W Bang & Olufsen sound system and internet radio, CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorbers, electric ride height adjustment (40 mm), 380/356 mm front/rear ceramic brake discs with 6-piston monobloc aluminium front, and floating rear callipers, Audi Drive Select. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Initial version
Q5 (2008)
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, and later at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Early models include the 2.0 TFSI quattro (211PS), 2.0 TDI quattro (170PS), 3.0 TDI quattro.
Initial vehicle models for US, Canada & Brazil include the 3.2 FSI.
The Q5 commenced shipments in October 2008 for Europe, and in the first quarter of 2009 for North America.
The US model went on sale in March 2009 as a 2009 model year vehicle. Early models include 3.2 FSI quattro and the 2.0 TFSI quattro (211PS) was added in 2011 model year.
Indian models went on sale in June 2009, and were initially built by Audi's Ingolstadt facility, but are now being built at its Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India plant. Launch models include 3.0 TDI, 2.0 TFSI (211 PS).
Middle East models went on sale in 2009 Q2. Launch models include 2.0 TFSI (211 PS), 3.2 FSI.
Japanese models include 2.0 TFSI quattro (211 PS), 3.2 FSI quattro.
Social links
Audi Q5 model years
Common Audi Q5 problems
The Audi Q5, a popular compact luxury SUV, has had its fair share of common problems reported by owners over the years. Here are some of the most significant issues, based on the search results:
- Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 Q5, along with other Audi models with turbocharged engines, faced problems with excessive oil consumption. A lawsuit was filed against Audi for this issue, but the company settled without admitting fault.
- Defects in the Start-Stop system: The 2017-2020 Q5 models have experienced problems with the vehicle's Start-Stop system, leading to issues like delayed acceleration response and power steering and brake shut-offs, making the car dangerous to drive.
- Leaking fuel pump flanges: The fuel pump flange supplied to Audi developed hairline cracks, leading to small leaks. This issue posed a risk of fire due to flammable liquid coming into contact with internal components.
- Automatic transmission failure: The 2009-2010 and 2012 Audi Q5 models have experienced issues with automatic transmission failure, including problems like sudden transmission lockup, rough shifting, and complete transmission breakdown, requiring expensive repairs or replacements.
- Sunroof leaks and failures: Sunroof leaks and operational failures have been reported in the 2009-2017 models, often due to faulty seals or drainage issues, leading to water ingress and potential damage to the interior and electronic components.
- Faulty steering: The 2014-2017 Audi Q5 models have had issues with stiff steering and unusual noises during low-speed maneuvers or while the vehicle is stationary.
- Electrical issues: The 2009-2016 models have faced a range of electrical problems, affecting everything from dashboard warning lights and exterior lighting to the infotainment system and electronic rearview.
- Suspension woes: The 2009-2012 models have faced suspension-related complaints, with most owner-reported issues centering around airbag and seatbelt problems, fuel system issues, and automatic gearbox failures.
These issues highlight the importance of thoroughly researching a vehicle's history and potential problems before making a purchase, especially when considering a used Audi Q5.
Is the Audi Q5 a reliable car?
Common Audi Q5 Problems. According to RepairPal, the Audi Q5's reliability rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, rated Average. If you're going to buy a used Audi Q5, here are some of its most common reliability woes: Defective timing chains: 2011-2012 Q5's timing chains were reportedly prone to early failure.
What are the problems with the Audi Q5?
Q5 3.2 V6 Problems
The 3.2 V6 is one of the more reliable engine options for the Q5, but it was only offered in the first couple of years of production. Some of the most common problems on this engine are coolant leaks, thermostats, secondary air, and oil filter housing leaks.
What is the engine failure of the Audi Q5?
(Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q5, 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas FL, and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.
How many miles will an Audi Q5 last?
Based on available information from reputable sources and customer accounts, the Audi Q5 can reach between 150,000 and 200,000 miles before encountering significant problems. However, achieving this mileage range will require steadfast maintenance and conservative usage.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi Q5 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi Q5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi Q5 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi Q5 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi Q5 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi Q5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi Q5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi Q5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Q5 model years
A total of 49 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Q5 model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Q5 model years
There were a total of 43 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1023 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi Q5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi Q5 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WA1ANAFY9J2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: My truck was part of a recall regarding my water pump and coolant leaking. I went for service at the Naperville Audi dealership and they basically gave me the run around and didn’t honor the recall lied and said they replaced my thermostat and never did. I had my car towed twice on 10/22 basically left stranded. Audi corporate advised them to fix my car due to the recall and they failed to do so.
Audi Q5 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: WA1LFAFP3FA
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Recently purchased a used vehicle from this dealership that there is a major issue with the drive train including the cv axel and also an issue with the tires that are on the vehicle. One of the tires had gone flat so I took it to the local Les Schwab to have it inspected and was told that I could not repaired it and that they could not sell me and put on the one tire because the vehicle manufacturer size was not met and that it can cause a danger on my 2015 Audi Q5 premium plus. The tire size that was on the vehicle that was purchased is 255/35ZR19, the manufacturers size is 235/55R19 per the les Schwab it can damage the vehicle and decrease the performance of the function of the vehicle which also impacts the speedometer reading and also the mileage tracking adding additional strain on the vehicle as well as decreasing its value faster. The vehicle is an all-wheel drive car and have the incorrect size is a safety concern as well as increasing the amount of mile that are driven that are artificial, also messing with the speedometer reading to have to go 10 mile over the limit to make it go the correct speed, this makes the computer think the vehicle is driving more mile than it is. I have informed the dealer of the issues, and they have refused to help and state that there is nothing to be concerned about. This information was not disclosed to me when purchasing the vehicle.
Audi Q5 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: WA1LFAFP9DA
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The rear subframe has plastic "stone guards" to protect the frame from being damaged in off-road conditions. Where these stone guards are attached, the subframe has rotted/rusted large holes. Water and salt from winter seasons can get trapped behind these guards. A subframe on a vehicle at this age should NOT have complete holes rotted through. Let alone a vehicle brand such as Audi, known for quality. The rear subframe connects the rear suspension and AWD drivetrain to the unibody of the vehicle. This is a major safety concern. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer; my Audi dealer denied this could happen. I am part of a few Audi groups/forums with others facing the same issues, and Audi replacing the subframe under the corrosion warranty. This is a widespread issue amongst the forums. There are no warnings or symptoms as of yet. I noticed the holes 3/17/24. The vehicle has been somewhat sufficient to operate. I just don't want to be traveling down the road with my family in the vehicle if the subframe collapses. I am afraid to fully remove the stone guards as others on the forums claimed that Audi would do nothing for them after removing the guards. Being that they are "protection".
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: WA1BNAFY3J2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: On 06/13/24, milage 61023, I experienced a failure in Left Tail Light. There was no damage to the housing unit, ie a crack in the lighting unit, but I was advised that the entire housing unit needed to be replaced as there was water in the housing unit that corroded the light socket for the led light. The repair was $470.00 for parts and $100 in labor subtotal $570.00 before tax and a dealer discount of $57. 03 total $541.51. I was shocked that it was over $500 to replace a brake light. Then 09/12/24, milage 63515, (3) months and 2,492 miles later I experienced a failure in the Right Tail Light. Again, there was no damage to the housing unit and I was advised that the entire housing unit needed to be replaced as there was water in the housing unit that corroded the light socket for the led light. This repair was provided to me with a dealer discount to the price after tax $481.59. When I asked if this was a recall item I was told no it is not. I asked if there was after-market replacement part as this seems to be a product defect I was told no there are no after-market parts available. I was told that these parts are kept in stock as this is a know issue for all Audi's with the tail brake lights close to the bumper. This is a safety issue as you can not drive the car with a defective brake light. I called Audi USA and reported my complaint and asked for some compensation but more importantly wanted to document this safety issue and after review was offered $200 off future repairs at my local dealer. This is safety issue and there is no reason to pay $1,023.10 for required brake lights repair due to housing unit that does not keep moisture out.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: WA1BNAFY6J2
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: When going in for an oil change and tire change the dealer noticed both rear springs were broken.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- VIN: WA1CNAFY3J2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,ENGINE
- Summary: The comfort control module in the trunk of the car was sitting in water due to an ingress of water coming in the car. The car would not start due to this water ingress and could have shut off completely on the freeway or while driving. This caused my car to completely shut off and malfunction. There were no warning lamps or messages of the problem. I found out about the problem by taking the car to the Audi dealership. They originally thought the problem was the gateway module which has already been recalled due to the same problem of an ingress of water. The Audi dealership has claimed that the ingress of water is from a clogged drain pipe in the sunroof. They said there is nothing you can do to prevent this from happening.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: WA1BNAFY3J2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The panel showed vehicle lights malfunction. The side marker lights are on all the time. This happened without any accident or changes of the setting.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: WA1BNAFY3J2
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Such incident happened two times: when I was driving at normal speed, another vehicle quickly approached me from back while switching to my lane. Out of any instruction, my vehicle applied brakes to decelerate. This almost caused crash and put my safety at high risk!
Audi Q5 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: WA1CMAFP3FA
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Level sensor on left rear suspension failed, causing headlights to be pointed downward and not safely lighting the road ahead. The sensor failed due to poor design, metal-to-metal ball and socket linkage in a corrosion-assured location under the car. When the metal-to-metal ball and socket corroded and froze, resulting load caused the sensor linkage to break. A search of Audi forums indicates that this problem is not uncommon, and this same sensor design is used in other Audi models and variants.
Audi Q5 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: WA1LKAFP2AA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Rear Subframe has severe rust through caused by plastic covers that trap moisture. This is a danger as the rust is so severe it will impact suspension, lower control arm in the rear. It was not inspected by anyone other than myself. No warning lamps. I noticed one of the plastic pieces hanging down from the vehicle that led me to inspect the cause of this part coming loose.
Audi Q5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: WA1L2AFP8GA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle engine no longer works. The coolant line broke without warning, and the whole engine needs to be replaced. The vehicle no longer works
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: WA1BNAFYXJ2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the turn signals were inoperable. The contact pulled over and noticed that the rear lights including brake lights and turn signals were not operational. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the cause was diagnosed as a sunroof drain line leakage that caused electrical damage due to water build-up, which damaged the control module. The contact stated that the drain lines needed to be unclogged and the control module needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was at the dealer awaiting the repairs. The contact was concerned that the Owner’s Manual did not guide sunroof maintenance to prevent the failure. The contact opened the rear hatch and found water accumulation under the mat. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: WA1BNAFY9J2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Starter button does not work. use of emergency start only. Dealership says rain water running off car towards the back, gets into the wiring and causes massive damage. getting a bill of over $11,000 There are recalls on this for other Q5 years but not 2018.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: WA1ANAFYXJ2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, upon reaching the destination, the contact became aware that the headlights would not turn off. After which, the vehicle failed to restart, and the vehicle was towed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V947000 (Electrical System, Structure); the VIN was included, but the vehicle had already been repaired under the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Audi Q5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: WA1BNAFY9J2
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My dealer informed me during a routine inspection that the rear coils springs were about to break and needed replacement at only 66653 miles. Web search revealed many others who have actually failed. Manufacturer will not cover 'out of warranty' repair. As a mechanical engineer with 45 years in the light vehicle industry - 30 in safety - I can say that coil springs do not routinely fail, especially at this mileage. If the do fail at speed I'd certainly expect potential loss of control by the surprised diver.
Latest 5 recalls Audi Q5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 79 recalls for different components of the Audi Q5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi Q5 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
- Model: Audi Q5 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-13
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
- Model: Audi Q5 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-13
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
- Model: Audi Q5 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-13
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
- Model: Audi Q5 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-13
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
Latest negative Audi Q5 car reviews
Latest positive Audi Q5 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2010
That's a really nice car! The interior design and quality are impressive, and it handles exceptionally well. The power is faultless, giving you a feeling of total control over the driving experience. I love that everything is lit at night, so there's no fumbling for any controls. It's also great that it's easy to integrate with your cell phone and iPod, and the voice commands work well. The stock stereo with satellite radio is outstanding. While the navigation controls can be confusing at first, they do get better over time. There's still lots to learn about how to get the most out of the electronics, but it's worth it. Plus, the roof rack is exceptionally easy to put on. Although there is a long list of suggested improvements, it's still a killer car!
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Vehicle year: 2020
We purchased this vehicle in June 2020 as a service loaner from another state, with only 3400 miles on it, making it feel like brand new. From the start, the front sensors were acting up inappropriately, going off for no reason. However, the local dealership service was amazing in trying to figure out the problem. It took three trips, the third time leaving it there for a week. Finally, they discovered that by simply switching the sensors around, it took care of the problem. Weird! Other than that, we absolutely love this car. It's even better than the 2015 BMW X-3 diesel we had prior, which had several issues with the exhaust system. Although it doesn't handle quite as well as the Beemer, it's still better than most SUVs out there. It's also quieter and, in my opinion, more elegant than the X-3. Plus, from what I've heard, it will probably be more reliable overall. We love that the Apple Car Play is included and it's forever, unlike the paid subscription that BMW offers. The controls are also more intuitive and the dash configuration, with the map availability in both the screen and the driver's dash, is second to none. The only minor inconvenience is having to turn off the start/stop feature each time you drive. The seats are comfortable both front and back, with the rear seat tilting back just a little for added comfort. The engine is quiet and quick enough for most folks. If you want a rocket, get the SQ5 instead. The rear cargo has a little bit less room back there than the X-3, but it's still fine for the two of us for road trips. We opted for a gray interior, so I know it will require more cleaning than the basic black, but I love the look. So far, so good!
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Vehicle year: 2013
Congratulations on passing 20k miles on your 2012 2.0T Premium Plus and celebrating the one-year anniversary of owning this great crossover SUV! It's wonderful to hear that you found it to be a reliable vehicle during the Chicago Winter, and that the AWD was especially helpful on icy roads. At 6'3
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Vehicle year: 2010
I just picked up my Q5 and I'm absolutely thrilled! This is my first luxury SUV and I'm already blown away by the quality. The ride is fantastic - it's solid, responsive and so much fun to drive. Audi has really hit the mark with the 2010 Q5 - it's the perfect combination of looks, performance and fun! I've started reading the owner's manual to get to know all the features, and while there's a lot to learn, it's definitely worth it. I went for the Meteor Gray (which is a great color) Premium Plus and added 19
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Vehicle year: 2014
The acceleration is fantastic at any speed, with torque equivalent to a big block V8. The gas mileage is outstanding, with many drivers reporting 37MPG on long trips. In my own experience, I have averaged 32.2MPG over 18,000 miles of ownership. Traction is excellent with quattro, although I believe it could be further improved with better tires than the OEM Michelin Latitude's. Shifting is smooth in all gears, although the shift from 1 to 2 only after the idle stop was engaged is the slightest bit rough. The interior materials are first-rate, and the layout is very intuitive. The MMI is very good, and the navigation system takes only a few minutes to start up on initial startup. I really appreciate the lack of a touch screen nav system, as everything is controlled through the selector wheel and buttons. This means that my hands are closer to the wheel, and I don't have to stretch for the nav screen, which keeps my eyes on the road. Cargo capacity is okay, but you know that when buying this vehicle - if you need a Suburban, go buy a Suburban. Audis tend to be a bit more sporty than Mercedes, and on par with BMW. Consequently, the ride is never harsh, but a bit firmer than you may be used to coming out of a Merc, or certainly a Lexus, which places a higher priority on comfort over better handling. Having said that, this is a heavy vehicle, and the center of gravity will be higher than any sedan you compare it to. Comparing this size SUV to any other comparably sized SUV, it's hard not to appreciate everything it offers. The price is a reflection of the technology, materials, and performance you get, which is to say, it doesn't come cheap. With its comfort, room, performance, fuel efficiency, quality of materials, and build quality, you won't find everything this vehicle - as a TDI - delivers anywhere else.
Sebastian Mraz 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2018
I have owned my Q5 for 7 months and 6700 miles. While I appreciate some of its features, there are a few areas that could use improvement. For example, the pre-Sense anti-collision assistance can be overly sensitive, causing unnecessary activation of the ABS. Additionally, the transmission can be clunky and slow to respond, which can be frustrating in certain situations. While the paddle shifters are a nice touch, the car can override manual input at times. Finally, acceleration can be delayed, which can be concerning in high traffic situations. Overall, I believe that Audi could make some improvements to the Q5 to make it an even better car. I would recommend thoroughly test driving the car and considering all options before making a decision. It is important to note that the dealership may not be able to provide much assistance in these areas.The Audi corporate may not always prioritize individual customer concerns and may refer them back to the dealer, but once the car is in motion, it provides a comfortable ride. However, it may require some attention to keep it straight and it may tend to drift left. Despite Audi's assurance that this is typical of front-wheel drive biased all-wheel drive cars, it is not always the case. It is important to note that this car is not a high-end model and there are better options available for the price. Thank you for reading.
Floy Block 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2010
The Audi Q5 is a great vehicle, but I have had some issues with the transmission. Unfortunately, I have had to have it replaced three times in the past two months. I have had some trouble with customer service from both the corporate and dealer standpoint, but I am hopeful that we can work together to find a solution. I have experienced some lurching and hesitation when coming to a stop, which has caused a couple of near accidents. I just wanted to share my experience with you, but please don't let it discourage you from considering the Audi Q5. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Finn Hodkiewicz 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2022
Hi there! We're sorry to hear about the issue you experienced with your new Q5. We understand how concerning it must have been for you. We're glad to hear that the Audi dealer was able to identify the problem and replace the gateway module. We hope that this resolves the issue for you. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further concerns or questions.
Torrey McLaughlin 2025-09-20
Vehicle year: 2010
The car runs well, but during the first service, we were informed of a leak in the water pump which was promptly replaced. However, a small transmission leak was later discovered and the dealer was advised by Audi to replace the transmission. Despite some initial setbacks with the programming, the transmission was eventually replaced. Although the process took longer than expected, we are confident in the dealer's ability to resolve the issue and eagerly await the return of our car.
Simeon Koss 2025-09-18
Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Audi Q5 that I bought new in 2012. Before that, I had a VW Passat wagon which handled like a dream, but unfortunately couldn't handle upstate NY pot holes. I've always been very diligent about maintaining my Audi through the dealership and making sure all recalls were taken care of. However, at around 80,000 miles, I started noticing that I had to add oil before the next oil change service. When I asked the dealership about it, they told me that it was to be expected because of the age of the vehicle and advised me to keep adding oil. This went on for 2 and a half years, with the dealership continually reassuring me. Unfortunately, the oil light started coming on more frequently and I had to keep adding more oil. Two months ago, I went to a different dealership (since the original dealer is no longer dealing in Audi) and they told me that my pistons were bad and that something had been manufactured incorrectly. Apparently, there had been an issue that Audi knew of, but to rectify the problem would cost me $6000. The dealer again told me to just keep adding oil. I did some research on the internet and found out about a class action suit from years 2008-2011. My car is an early 2012 model manufactured in 02/12. I contacted Audi and they told me to pay for an oil compression test, which unfortunately didn't happen in time. Now my car is currently sitting in my driveway with 109,000 miles, undriveable and awaiting a tow truck because it suddenly doesn't go more than 23 miles an hour. Audi's not sure what my outcome will be and they've advised me to prepare myself for the outcome. It's definitely been a frustrating experience, but I hope this helps anyone who's considering buying an Audi. Maybe it's worth looking into a Mercedes, BMW or Volvo instead. Take care!