2016 Audi Sq5 problems

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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.

2016 Audi Sq5

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Common 2016 Audi Sq5 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2016 Audi Q5, several common problems have been reported:

  • Sudden Acceleration: Some owners reported issues with sudden acceleration, which can be dangerous and affect the vehicle's drivability .
  • Excessive Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption has been noted in some 2016 Audi Q5 models, which can lead to engine problems and the need for frequent oil top-ups .
  • Electrical Glitches: Common electrical issues have been reported, particularly related to the air conditioning, boot switch, and the tire pressure monitoring system. These glitches can affect the overall functionality of the vehicle.
  • Gearbox Failures: There have been reports of gearbox failures, especially with the S tronic automatic gearbox, which can be costly to repair. It's crucial to ensure proper servicing and conduct thorough test drives to detect any issues.

These problems highlight various safety, performance, and reliability concerns that owners of the 2016 Audi Q5 have faced. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to any warning signs, and staying informed about recalls are essential to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.

2016 Audi Sq5 engine

Is SQ5 expensive to maintain?

Audi SQ5 Maintenance

Maintenance and repair costs for an Audi SQ5 will amount to $3,388 after 5 years. Expenses include scheduled maintenance, normal wear and tear items and expected repairs.

What is the most common problem of Audi Q5?

What are common Audi Q5 problems?

  1. Excessive oil consumption. Turbo Q5 models, specifically the 2011 model, suffer significantly from excessive oil consumption. ...
  2. Defective timing chains. ...
  3. Start-stop system issues. ...
  4. Sunroof concerns. ...
  5. Leaky fuel pump flanges.

What is the problem with the Audi SQ5 3.0 TDI?

Problems? Well, some Q5 3.0 TDIs weren't trouble-free, pre-2012 models in particular suffering from excessive oil consumption (a litre every 1,500 miles), leaky fuel pumps, problems with the start-stop system, timing chain and tensioner failure and in one case at least complete transmission blow-up.

Does 2016 Audi SQ5 have air suspension?

Thankfully, the Audi SQ5 is a lot more comfortable than most of them. Its standard adaptive suspension will let you choose between sporty or more comfortable settings, but the optional adaptive air suspension irons out bumps better than any other sporty SUV.

What is the most common problem of Audi Q5?

What are common Audi Q5 problems?

  1. Excessive oil consumption. Turbo Q5 models, specifically the 2011 model, suffer significantly from excessive oil consumption. ...
  2. Defective timing chains. ...
  3. Start-stop system issues. ...
  4. Sunroof concerns. ...
  5. Leaky fuel pump flanges.

What is the problem with the Audi SQ5 3.0 TDI?

Problems? Well, some Q5 3.0 TDIs weren't trouble-free, pre-2012 models in particular suffering from excessive oil consumption (a litre every 1,500 miles), leaky fuel pumps, problems with the start-stop system, timing chain and tensioner failure and in one case at least complete transmission blow-up.

Does 2016 Audi SQ5 have air suspension?

Thankfully, the Audi SQ5 is a lot more comfortable than most of them. Its standard adaptive suspension will let you choose between sporty or more comfortable settings, but the optional adaptive air suspension irons out bumps better than any other sporty SUV.

What is the fuel consumption of Audi SQ5 2016?

Audi SQ5 2016 Fuel consumption

Fuel consumption for the 2016 Audi SQ5 is dependent on the type of engine, transmission, or model chosen. The Audi SQ5 currently offers fuel consumption from 6.8 to 6.8L/100km.

2016 Audi Sq5 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi Sq5 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Engine problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Audi Sq5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2016 Audi Sq5 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Audi Sq5.

2021-04-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-25
  • VIN: WA1CCAFP4GA
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE ORIGINAL ENGINE WATER PUMP FAILED AT 18,313 MILES ON MAY 12, 2019. THE REPLACED ENGINE WATER PUMP HAS FAILED AGAIN AT 24,700 MILES ON APRIL 25. 2021. THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE AND UNSAFE.
2021-04-24

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-02
  • VIN: WA1VCAFP2GA
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT IS A KNOWN DEFECT ON EVERY MLB-PLATFORM AUDI MODEL. MY SQ5, LIKE THOUSANDS OF OTHERS, HAS DEVELOPED A KNOWN DEFECT THAT CAUSES A SQUEAKING/CREAKING THAT CAN BE FELT IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN TURNING THE WHEEL. IT CAN ALSO BE FAINTLY HEARD. INSTEAD OF INITIATING A RECALL TO FIX THE ISSUE, AUDI HAS RELEASED TONS OF TSBS THAT ONLY COVER IN-WARRANTY CARS, EVEN THOUGH MAY CARS DEVELOP THIS PROBLEM WITH AS LITTLE AS 20,000 MILES. AT 53,000 MILES, MY CAR HAS THIS ISSUE NOW AND I'LL BE FORCED TO PAY HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS FOR A REPAIR THAT EITHER INCLUDES REPLACING PARTS OF THE STEERING SHAFT OR DISASSEMBLING PART OF THE STEERING SHAFT AND LUBRICATING IT. IT IS A BIT SHOCKING THAT 10 YEARS LATER AUDI IS STILL NOT RECALLING THESE CARS TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE ONCE AND FOR ALL. AS THIS ISSUE PROGRESSES, THE STEERING CAN PROGRESSIVELY GET HARD AND HARDER FOR THE DRIVER TO TURN POTENTIALLY INCREASING CHANCES OF AN ACCIDENT.
2019-06-11

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-31
  • VIN: WA1CCAFPXGA
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: THE AUDI SQ 5 LOSES POWER STEERING IF THE RACK/PINION POWER STEERING UNIT IS EXPOSED TO WATER. THIS DOES NOT REFER TO FLOODING OR SUBMERGED CAR AUDI CONSIDERS WEATHER AN OUTSIDE INFLUENCE AND DOES NOT HONOR THE WARRANTY THE CAR RETAINS FULL PROPULSION BUT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO STEER THE ELECTRICAL MECHANISM ON THE POWER STEERING IS DANGEROUSLY EXPOSED , AND APPARENTLY NOT WEATHER PROOF I MADE A LEFT HAND TURN IN A HEAVY RAIN STORM UP THE APRON OF A DRIVEWAY TO A PARKING LOT. I DROVE THE CAR 100-150 FEET TO A SECURE SPOT TO WAIT OUT A HEAVY HOUSTON RAINSTORM . THE DASHBOARD INDICATOR CAME ON SIGNALLING LOSS OF POWER STEERING AS THE CAR SAT IN THE SPOT FOR OVER 1 MINUTE I ASSUME THE WATER I PUSHED UP IN FRONT OF ME AS I WENT UP THE APRON GOT UNDER THE CAR AND INTO THE MECHANISM THE CAR WAS NEVER STATIONARY IN ANY DEEP WATER, AND NEVER IN WATER DEEPER THAN 3 INCHES THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS THE CAR MAINTAINED FULL PROPLUSION
2018-02-22

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-19
  • VIN: WA1CCAFP6GA
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I HAVE A REPEAT OF MY ISSUE 10971202. WHILE IT MIGHT NOT SEEM LIKE A BIG DEAL- THAT THE CAR LOCKS ITSELF AFTER I PLACE MY PURSE WITH MY KEYS ON THE BACK SEAT AND CLOSE THE DOOR- IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE FOR A WOMAN IN A MALL. I GET LOCKED OUT OF MY CAR, AND SOMETIMES MY PHONE IS IN MY PURSE, LEAVING ME STRANDED. AUDI CLAIMS THAT NO ONE HAS REPORTED THE ISSUE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THE CAR DOES NOT LOCK ITSELF IF IT DETECTS THE KEY INSIDE, UNLESS IT DETECTS A SECOND KEY OUTSIDE THE CAR. THIS WAS NOT MY CASE.
2017-04-07

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-08
  • VIN: WA1CCAFP6GA
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I AM WRITING TO EXPRESS MY EXTREME ANXIETY OVER MY RECENT EXPERIENCE WITH THE SENSOR-KEY. I TYPICALLY KEEP THE KEYS IN MY PURSE, OPEN THE REAR DOOR (BEHIND THE DRIVER DOOR), AND LEAVE MY PURSE ON THE SEAT OR THE FLOOR, CLOSE THAT DOOR, THEN OPEN THE DRIVER DOOR AND DRIVE. A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO (MARCH 8TH, 2017), THE CAR WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY. I UNLOCKED THE REAR DOOR, PLACED ALL MY BAGS INSIDE, CLOSED THE DOOR. THEN I WENT TO PUT A BUMPER STICKER ON. MUST HAVE TAKEN LESS THAN 5 MINUTES. I HEARD THE CAR LOCK ITSELF- WITH MY KEYS (CAR AND HOME) INSIDE. I MOST DEFINITELY DID NOT TOUCH THE DOOR HANDLE TO LOCK THE CAR! AND THE CAR DOES NOT LOCK ITSELF AFTER SOME TIME- I HAVE FOUND IT UNLOCKED WHEN THE DOOR HANDLE TOUCH SOMETIMES DID NOT WORK. LUCKILY, IN THIS INSTANCE, I WAS ABLE TO GET INTO MY HOUSE AND GET MY SECOND KEY- BUT WHAT IF I WERE ELSEWHERE? I CAN IMAGINE ME LOCKED OUT OF MY CAR (WITH KEYS AND PHONE INSIDE) AND COMPLETELY STRANDED! - WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR, I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT YOU CANNOT LOCK THE CAR FROM THE OUTSIDE WHEN THE KEYS ARE INSIDE- AND THIS IS TYPICALLY WHAT I HAVE EXPERIENCED (UNTIL MARCH 8TH.) - EVEN THOUGH MY DOOR LOCKS ARE SET TO 'UNLOCK ALL DOORS' SOMETIMES, I FIND THE DRIVER'S DOOR NOT UNLOCKED, WHEREIN, I OPEN THE BACK DOOR, BRING MY BAG OUT TO UNLOCK THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR, AND THEN PUT IT BACK. AUDI CLAIMS THAT THE CAR LOCKS ITSELF AFTER A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF IDLE TIME- WHICH DOES NOT MAKE SENSE IF THE KEYS ARE INSIDE THE CAR. AUTO LOCK AFTER A CERTAIN TIME WHEN THE KEYS ARE OUTSIDE THE CAR MAKES SENSE. NOT THE DESCRIBED BEHAVIOR
2016-03-24

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-22
  • VIN: WA1CCAFP6GA
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 AUDI SQ5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SIZE AND PLACEMENT OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE MIRRORS CAUSED A BLIND SPOT WHEN MAKING TURNS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT DUE TO THE FAILURE, HE NEARLY CRASHED INTO A PEDESTRIAN. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE ROAD WAS UNABLE TO BE VIEWED WHICH COULD RESULT INTO A CRASH DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 3,000. UPDATED 05/04/16*LJ *TR

Negative 2016 Audi Sq5 car reviews

  1. Emerald Hegmann 2024-10-24

    If you're interested, I have some experience with Audi ownership that might be helpful. I've owned a 2002 Audi S8 (which unfortunately had a massive engine failure despite an excellent service history), a 2014 Q5 TDI (which I affectionately refer to as the 'Expensive Vibrator'), and a 2008 S5 Coupe (which has been reliable so far, but I'll be parting with it soon). So, I'm not coming at this review from a place of inexperience. Now, let's get to the point - I'm currently dealing with a Lemon Law situation in Florida. I was disappointed with the delivery of the car, as the interior felt cheaply made. The standard seating is not up to par, and there are constant buzzers and alarms going off. The car is marketed as a Sport Utility Vehicle, but the utility aspect is a joke. The doors lock when you don't want them to, and there are constant alarms and warnings. Between Health & Safety regulations and the accountants, the car is a bit of a letdown. These are all minor annoyances, though. The real trouble started on a long road trip, shortly after the 5,000 mile service. About 300 miles into the trip, the add oil light came on. I pulled off at a service station and couldn't find the oil dipstick. I called the dealer (Reeves of Tampa, who I've dealt with before for my other Audis and Porsche, and have always had a good experience with) and was informed that they don't have dipsticks. Long story short, I had to add about 1/3 of a quart every 500 miles. When I got home, I brought the car in and they had it for about a week. They said it was fixed, but within 110 miles, the light came on again. They had it for another two weeks (bringing the total to 15 days for Lemon Law), and once again the light came on. The purpose of this car is for my commute to work, from Tampa, FL to outside New Orleans, LA. I can't afford to be late because I'm looking for Audi dealers to see if I need oil or not. So, I started the Lemon Law process. Audi had 10 days to respond, but took 14 days. I took the car back to Reeves for the final repair attempt. They are allowed 10 days, but took 15 days. They told me it was fixed, but the lights are on again.The Better Business Bureau, which is the organization one must go through, stated today that Audi considers the car fixed. However, I just took it to the dealer again today to have them manually check the oil before my next road trip. I am disappointed with Audi Engineering (which seems to be run by accounting these days) and their customer support. I have never received a courtesy call from Audi where they sincerely apologize for my situation. Instead, they just ignore the timelines set forth by the State of Florida. Whether that is due to arrogance, incompetence or being understaffed (due to more accountant management), I cannot say, but it is not very impressive whatever the case is. I requested that this be resolved by 23 December as I have to travel for business again, but that request was not acknowledged. Perhaps Audi should revise their slogan from Volkswagen has agreed to give me what I had been requesting for over a year, and they have also agreed to pay my attorney's fees. However, due to the way I was treated during this process, I have decided to part ways with Volkswagen and the local dealership, Reeves Audi of Tampa. I have been a loyal customer of theirs for 15 years with Porsche and Audi, but unfortunately, the poor treatment I received has left a bad taste in my mouth. I have reported their unfair and deceptive business practices to the Federal Trade Commission and the Florida Attorney General's office. I recently received an email from Edmunds to update my review, but I have nothing more to add or edit. Thank you for your understanding.

  2. Connor Franecki 2024-09-14

    That's a very nice car! However, if you're planning on driving it a lot, be prepared to change the tires every 15-18KIm. I'm currently at 42k and have already had to change the tires twice. I'm eagerly waiting for the SQ7!

Positive 2016 Audi Sq5 car reviews

  1. Marquis Wilkinson 2024-11-27

    Very fun car to drive! I've had 2 S4s (2012 and 2014) and now own a 2016 SQ5 and I couldn't be happier. By the way, did you know that the next Q5's are going to be made in Mexico?

  2. Peyton Spencer 2024-11-07

    I really love this vehicle! I recently purchased a 2016 Audi SQ5 Prem package with 19,000 miles on it. It was previously leased. Before buying, I heard a lot of discussion about the tech on board, mainly the lack of a USB port for older models. However, I don't think this is a big deal. There are two 12v chargers and Bluetooth syncs beautifully. If you really need it, there are aftermarket capabilities for Apple car play. Overall, I love the power, the handling, and just seeing those 4 rings gives me goosebumps. You should definitely consider getting one!

  3. Emil Yundt 2024-10-16

    Firstly, I wanted to mention how great Edmunds price promise was. With all the dealers offering different discounts, it was a relief to find the best one that had the SQ5 with all the options we wanted. Although we've only had the car for 2 weeks, we recently completed a trip to Canada and it was an absolute pleasure to drive. Having owned other sports cars before and having just traded in a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the Audi, I can confidently say that there is no comparison. The Audi is in a league of its own. I'm looking forward to enjoying it for years to come!

  4. Junior Becker 2024-09-19

    Just got mine a month ago and I absolutely love it! The ride, build, and looks are all fantastic. It's still a bit early for me to give a full review, but so far I'm really enjoying it!

  5. Monserrate Blick 2024-08-13

    The 2015 SQ5 has a great drive! However, the MMI system can be a bit overwhelming with its many buttons, levers, and dials. It can take some time to find what you're looking for and can be distracting while driving. Overall, the car is fun to drive, a good size, and fairly comfortable. Although it is a bit expensive and the visibility could be better, it's still a great choice.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Audi Sq5 problems:

2016 SQ5 common problems? Carbon blast, maintenance ...
2016 SQ5 common problems? Carbon blast, maintenance ...
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/q5-sq5-mki-8r-discussion-129/2016-sq5-common-problems-carbon-blast-maintenance-nightmare-etc-2988398/

Feb 21, 2020 ... 5 Q5/SQ5 is very dependable. The only areas that seem to fail prematurely depending on year are the water pump/t-stat/oil separator. Also some ...

Common Problems with SQ5 or 3.0T | VW Vortex - Volkswagen Forum
Common Problems with SQ5 or 3.0T | VW Vortex - Volkswagen Forum
https://www.vwvortex.com/threads/common-problems-with-sq5-or-3-0t.9425297/

Aug 12, 2020 ... The more common issues are with the thermostat and waterpump. They can leak or fail causing overheating issues, so I would recommend replacing ...

SQ5 Common Faults, issues, qualms? - AudiWorld Forums
SQ5 Common Faults, issues, qualms? - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/q5-sq5-mki-8r-discussion-129/sq5-common-faults-issues-qualms-3032419/

Jan 12, 2022 ... SQ5 Common Faults, issues, qualms? · Water pump and thermostat issues. · PCV under the supercharger. · Noisy timing chain tensioners on cold ...

2016 Q5 Oil Issues (as always) | Audi Q5 Forum
2016 Q5 Oil Issues (as always) | Audi Q5 Forum
https://www.myaudiq5.com/threads/2016-q5-oil-issues-as-always.81092/

Mar 3, 2023 ... Even though the owners manual say the 2.0 Turbo will use approximately a quart every 1000 miles, these engines are using quite a bit more due to ...

2016 Q5 common problems? - AudiWorld Forums
2016 Q5 common problems? - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/q5-sq5-mki-8r-discussion-129/2016-q5-common-problems-2900007/

May 4, 2016 ... 2016 Q5 common problems? · 1. Panoramic roof rattle - Just started, so I will be watching closely. · 2. B pillar exterior black glossy trim ...

Other years of Audi Sq5

audi sq5 2017 photo
Sq5 2017
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10

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audi sq5 2018 photo
Sq5 2018
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20

5

9

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audi sq5 2019 photo
Sq5 2019
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13

5

12

  • 5
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audi sq5 2020 photo
Sq5 2020
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5

4

16

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audi sq5 2021 photo
Sq5 2021
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5

5

17

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audi sq5 2022 photo
Sq5 2022
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2

15

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2016 Audi Sq5 photo