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: 2012
Congratulations on your new Q5! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the comfort and driving experience of your new car. The Q5 seems to be a step above the Acura MDX in terms of comfort, handling, and power. It's also great to hear that you're getting good gas mileage, which is even better than your previous car. While the tech features may take some getting used to, it's worth it for the added convenience. The Q5 is the perfect size for a couple of empty nesters, although it may be a bit small for a family trip. Happy driving!
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Vehicle year: 2014
I recently purchased an Audi Q5 TDI Premium Plus in Scuba Blue with a Chestnut interior and ash inlays. Although the delivery took 82 days, the wait was worth it! The engine response is very good, and while some articles mention a slight lag, I haven't noticed any real-world issues with merging or passing. So far, I've driven about 350 miles - 100 miles in town and 250 miles on an Interstate Highway road trip (70 mph). I'm happy to report that I'm getting around 24 mpg in town and an overall average of 31.4 mpg. The car also has an auto-shutdown feature, but the start-up is so fast that there's no need to worry about keeping people waiting behind you. If you prefer, you can always turn off this function from the dash.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I recently traded in my 2015 Golf sport wagon TDI, albeit reluctantly, to take the cash settlement. It was a great car with zero problems on my end, but I needed more ground clearance, AWD, and torque/power for towing my 2000 lb Aliner (hard sided pop up). After reading many reviews and talking to a few Audi TDI owners, I was able to find one online with low miles. Let me tell you, this SUV far exceeded any expectations I had! When towing the camper, I routinely get 26 to 28 MPG at 65 mph, both in the mountains of Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, and on the highway. I honestly don’t even notice the camper is being towed (except when you hit a poorly maintained road). When not towing, I routinely get 38 mpg on the highway at 72-75 mph. On secondary roads (we have many in Florida) at 65 mph, it is common to hit 40-41mpg. With an almost 20-gallon tank, it has a very long range. I have several good friends who I would respectfully call “motor heads” and who know a lot about cars and trucks. I have heard them ask more than once (while a passenger in the TDI), “Are you sure this is a diesel? It is way too quiet!” The AWD traction on steep gravel roads (especially when towing) is excellent. This was a weakness with the front-wheel-drive Golf. Merging on highways while towing is effortless with all this torque, and climbing a mountain pass is actually fun with all the power the engine has in reserve. The only negative about this car is that, sadly, VW/Audi are no longer allowed to bring them into the States. But, if you take your time, you can still find some low mileage 2015 and 16’s out there.
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Vehicle year: 2013
This cross-over is such an amazing vehicle to drive! It handles just like you would expect an Audi to handle. The exterior is so sleek, sexy and screams confidence, while the interior is well laid out. If you're looking for an optional upgrade, the navigation system is a must-have. Plus, the panoramic roof lets the world into the cabin as you cruise around town. Although the steering may feel a little artificial at low speeds, as the car picks up, the tightness and Audi feel really kicks in. And let's not forget about the 2.0T engine - it hums and outperforms the 3.2! Overall, this is definitely a car worth checking out.
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Vehicle year: 2013
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that my wife and I recently took delivery of a White/Cinnamon Q5 2.0T Premium Plus that we custom ordered. We've been really pleased with the car so far - it's been meeting all of our expectations in terms of comfort, utility, handling, and ride quality. The only thing we're missing is the backup camera's computer chip, which we were told is months behind in production from the Japanese supplier due to the tsunami. Despite this, the car has an okay power rating of 211bhp and is very torquey, which makes for excellent off-the-line acceleration and passing power. We opted for the B&O sound system, which sounds fantastic and was definitely worth the extra $750. My wife says that driving it feels like wearing a comfortable pair of jeans, and I couldn't agree more - when she's happy, I'm happy!
Are you having problems with your Audi Q5?
Kristopher Oberbrunner 2025-09-11
Vehicle year: 2023
The motor recall has less than 1500 miles on it, yet the battery goes dead if it sits for 2 weeks, even with a tender on it. I cannot recommend this brand and suggest considering other options.
Candelario Bailey 2025-09-11
Vehicle year: 2013
This car has some amazing features. Its suspension makes long interstate trips incredibly comfortable and the space is adequate for long trips. It handles well too. However, at low speeds, it tends to jerk a lot (under 20 mph). Unfortunately, we had some issues with it and ended up spending over $6000 dollars in repairs alone in just one year, despite performing all regular maintenances prior to the breakdowns. It broke down on us twice in one year and each time cost an arm and a leg to fix. It got to the point that we didn't even want to drive it anymore, so we traded it in for something less expensive to repair.
Daron Crooks 2025-09-09
Vehicle year: 2012
When I was searching for a new car, I had my heart set on a sporty SUV, but unfortunately, the one I wanted wasn't available in the color and specs I desired. That's when my husband and I stumbled upon the Audi Q5. Initially, we were hesitant due to the name, maintenance costs, and unfamiliar controls, but after taking it for a test drive and seeing its low mileage (off of a lease), we both fell in love with it. The car is sporty, luxurious (with a black w/brown leather interior), and just the right size. Although I was initially concerned about the 4cyl engine, coming from a Lexus RX300 6cyl, the sport mode provided enough power to satisfy me. After owning the car for almost 9 months, I can confidently say that it's a great SUV. The interior and exterior are both stylish, and the sound system is fantastic. The gas mileage is impressive, and the trunk and roof are spacious. The turbo/sport mode provides nice power for a 4cyl engine. However, there are some downsides. The multimedia system is not intuitive, and the location of the controls can be distracting while driving. The FM stations don't always come in unless I hit my presets, and the Bluetooth hookup is not as easy as other cars. The Navigation is outdated, and the brake dust is a constant issue. The backseat is a bit tight, especially for three people. Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and would recommend the Audi Q5 to anyone looking for a stylish and sporty SUV.I noticed that the maintenance schedule recommends changing the spark plugs at 35k, which seems a bit early to me since spark plugs usually last between 75k-100k. Overall, I really like the look and feel of the Q5, but I have found that the maintenance costs at Audi are quite high. Despite doing my research and finding many good reviews, I don't think I would buy a used 4cyl again at this price point ($35k) due to certain issues and limitations. However, I plan to keep this car for a few more years and then pass it on to my son, hoping it will last as long as my Lexus. In the future, I will likely switch to a 6cyl SUV that is sporty and has more user-friendly controls with fewer issues.
Jaiden Jast 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2014
As a used car buyer, I wanted to provide an honest review of the reliability of the 2014 Q5. Many reviews only focus on the reliability of vehicles in their first years, but the true measure of reliability is the longevity of ownership. Unfortunately, the 2014 Q5 has some issues with oil consumption that persist even in newer model years. I personally experienced this issue with my own Q5, which began using more and more oil with every oil change until it was using a full quart every 600 miles by 100k miles. Additionally, there were other costly repairs needed, such as replacing the CV axle boots at 90k miles, the timing chain at 120k miles (costing $3k), and the camshaft at 128k miles. Unfortunately, my experience is not unique, and many owners have had to rebuild their engines by 128k miles. If you plan on leasing or buying a new Q5 and not keeping it beyond the warranty, it may be a reliable vehicle. However, if you plan on owning one for an extended period, it's important to consider the potential repair costs.
Richard Powlowski 2025-09-07
Vehicle year: 2016
I really like the way the Q5 drives and handles, it's very smooth and mobile with good power. However, I would not recommend it due to the outdated tech and hard-to-use features for simple things. It's surprising that push start only comes standard on the premium plus model, and that you have to make sure the Q5 you want to buy comes with the technology package to get Bluetooth. The wipers can be difficult to control, and the MMI is not user-friendly. It would be great to have shortcut buttons and quick push buttons for presets. Additionally, ending a call on Bluetooth can be a bit of a pain. The gas remaining indicator is also not very helpful, as you have to restart the engine and look closely for a quick flash to see how many miles are left until empty. Lastly, it's disappointing that a 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus does not tell you which tire is low, only that the tire pressure is low. Overall, while I like the vehicle for its driving and handling, the outdated tech and difficult-to-use features make it hard to recommend.