2014 Audi Q5

The rear sub frame has completely rusted through, on both driver and passenger sides. This makes the vehicle extremely unsafe to drive. It is a 2014 q5 with 160k miles. There is a hole on the bottom of the frame on both sides due to a poorly designed cover that traps salt and other road debris leading to premature failure.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Post fix EDR cooler failure causing coolant fluid loss " enough complaints pressure on Audi Reference EA189 emissions fix Subject: Goodwill Assistance Request – 2014 Q5 TDI EGR Cooler – VIN [XXX] Audi Customer Experience Team, I am writing to request goodwill assistance for my 2014 Audi Q5 TDI, VIN [XXX] , with 105,000 miles. Vehicle Issue The car is losing engine coolant with no external leaks. Symptoms are consistent with a failed EGR cooler: low coolant warnings every few weeks, white smoke on cold starts, and no puddles or visible leaks. This is a documented failure mode on the 3.0L TDI V6 engine, especially after the emissions modification. Warranty Background - Original in-service date: [XXX] - Emissions modification completed: 2018 - Current mileage: 105,000 I understand the EGR cooler is a covered component under the TDI Extended Emissions Warranty as an emissions-related part. While the 10-year time provision from the in-service date expired [XXX], I am well under the 120,000-mile limit. The 4 years/48k miles from the 2018 modification also places the failure directly within the spirit of the extended coverage. Basis for Goodwill Request The EPA-approved emissions modification increased EGR duty cycles and thermal stress on the cooler. This failure is a direct consequence of that modification. Repair quotes from Audi dealers are 1,200-2,000 due to the labor involved to access the cooler in the V of the engine. The vehicle has been maintained with VW 507.00 specification oil and has no aftermarket modifications. I intend to keep the vehicle long-term if repaired. Request I respectfully request Audi cover the diagnosis and replacement of the EGR cooler under goodwill. I am happy to have the work performed at an authorized Audi dealer in Houston. I appreciate your consideration and can provide service records or additional photos if needed. I can be reached at [XXX] or this email. Thank you INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Severe corrosion of the rear subframe crossmember on a 2014 Audi Q5 Premium Plus, purchased with 65,464 miles. Two independent inspections in South Carolina confirmed structural failure. Audi of Greenville, an authorized Audi dealership, marked the condition as VERY DANGEROUS on the service invoice and quoted $4,711.52 for subframe replacement. They were unable to perform a wheel alignment due to the severity of the corrosion. Yoder's Automotive in Westminster, SC independently confirmed the subframe was rusted beyond repair on both sides. Fist-sized holes have corroded through the structural metal on both sides of the subframe. The vehicle has plastic stone guard covers bolted over the subframe from the factory. These covers trapped road salt and moisture against unpainted mild steel, accelerating concealed corrosion that was invisible until the covers were removed during inspection. The vehicle is undriveable and has not been driven since the defect was discovered in approximately March 2026. This defect pattern is documented in at least 16 prior NHTSA complaints for Audi Q5 models spanning model years 2010 through 2018. Audi has revised the subframe part number at least five times (8R0505235F through 8R0505235N) but has issued zero recalls and zero consumer notifications.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

This vintage 2014 Audi A5 has a well known serious rust perforation issue with the rear subframe. The corrosion / rust through of two major holes, approx 3 inches in diameter, causing structural failure of the sub frame. This is a major saftey concern with these cars from model year 2009 thru 2017. The only remedy is replacement of the sub frame under Audi's 12 year rust perforation warranty or good will.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that while exiting the vehicle, the fuel odor was also outside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a leaking fuel pump. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V298000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The dealer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed that the recall repair was performed in 2017. The contact was informed that a protective film was applied during the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the recall repair had a one-year warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am filing a safety complaint regarding a progressive engine defect. Beginning as early as 2019 (approximately 84,000 miles), I repeatedly reported excessive oil consumption and related engine concerns to authorized Audi dealerships. These complaints continued over several years. At no point was I informed that these symptoms could be associated with a known defect pattern or progressive engine failure. The condition has now escalated to a severe engine malfunction. The vehicle began exhibiting engine misfires, flashing check engine light, EPC warning, and unstable operation. The dealership confirmed misfire fault codes and oil contamination affecting the ignition system. Engine replacement was initially recommended. Excessive oil consumption leading to internal contamination and misfires presents a significant safety hazard. Loss of engine power or sudden failure while driving can create dangerous conditions, particularly at highway speeds or in traffic. Despite the long history of reported symptoms, Audi of America has declined to provide assistance, citing only warranty status and failing to address the defect progression. The vehicle has now been inoperable at an Audi dealership for approximately 60 days (nearly two months), with no resolution. This situation raises concerns regarding a safety-related defect, failure to disclose a known issue, and a potential broader pattern affecting similar vehicles equipped with this engine. I am requesting that this issue be reviewed for potential defect investigation. The dealer provided diagnostic findings with Failure Codes via a temporary link that is no longer accessible. I am requesting a copy of the full report and will upload this (once received), along with other documentation.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle rear subframe comes with plastic covers that trap road salt and cause severe corrosion. Issue only presents itself when plastic covers are removed, revealing rust/corrosion and lost material, and a risk of the subframe to split resulting in lost of vehicle control on the road. This was found as a preventative action due to reports from other car owners and is confirmed by Audi Dealers as a common issue. Labor and parts estimate around $6000 (including $2000 in parts)

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On Tuesday, September 2nd, I was in a car accident on the freeway. A car jump out in front of me and did not go quickly enough, I hit my breaks, but still hit them going around 55-60 MPH. When the impact occurred, my car turned itself off and I saw smoke coming out of the dash / center area of the car. I was able to start my car and get it off of the freeway safely. My airbag did not deploy, and it appeared the charge went off. The airbag light is now illuminated on the dash. There are no open recalls on my car, and I am truly concerned there is an issue with the airbags and do not want anyone else to get hurt if their airbags do not go off. I spoke with the local dealership on Friday, and they recommended that I reach out directly to Audi. I contacted Audi, answered all of their questions, sent photos and the police report. This is the response I received from them today, 9/22: "Our engineer has completed the review of all the documentation you provided. Here is his assessment: Damage to this vehicle is to sheet metal and composite material components of the hood, fender, headlight, bumper cover, and radiator core support. The impact is offset to the right, outside the bumper reinforcement system with no apparent damage or longitudinal compression of the bumper deformation elements or frame long members. The progressive deformation of the components listed above absorbs crash energy over a longer period of time, lowering the vehicles rate of deceleration below the threshold criteria for airbag deployment. This vehicle performed as designed." I do not believe this is accurate because there was smoke inside the car, and now the airbag light is illuminated.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

The rear subframe of my Audi Q5 has extensive rot and holes per an inspection done and deemed unsafe to drive. However I’ve only had the car about 3 years. To fix this will cost me around $5800.00.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

2014 Audi rear subframe is rusted through. 92,000 Mi. My independent mechanic found the problem when performing suspension work. It has not been inspected by the dealer yet but will be soon. With the history of the subframe failures on these models and years, there is a danger to the public driving these vehicles on the road. Audi needs to fix these problems

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The front subframe has experienced catastrophic failure due to severe and premature rust-through corrosion. Multiple holes have perforated the component, compromising the vehicle's structural integrity. The part is available for inspection upon request. The safety of my family and others was put at significant risk, as the subframe is the primary component that mounts the engine, suspension, and steering rack to the vehicle. A failure of the subframe while driving could cause a complete loss of steering control and the collapse of the front suspension, leading to a serious or fatal crash. The problem was independently reproduced and confirmed by both an independent service center and an authorized Audi dealership. Both establishments have deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive due to this specific issue. The manufacturer (Audi of America) has been made aware of the issue through their dealership network. They have acknowledged the defect by offering a "goodwill" repair to replace the subframe, confirming their awareness of this failure mode. However, the manufacturer has made this safety-critical repair contingent on the owner first paying for several thousand dollars of unrelated maintenance items, creating a financial barrier that prevents the safety fix from being implemented. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure's discovery. This is a silent failure that provides no warning to the driver. It was only discovered during a routine service visit when the vehicle was on a lift.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Under Recall 19N4, the electric coolant pump was replaced in July 2019 at 73,496 miles. That replacement pump failed prematurely in March 2025 at 109,628 miles — lasting only 36,132 miles. This was a safety-related recall part intended to fix a known defect with the original pump. Audi refused to provide goodwill reimbursement for this premature failure. I am reporting this to request further investigation and possible expanded remedy.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

2014 Audi Q5 TDI with 115000 miles. Rear subframe inspected individually, by independent shop, and by Audi dealership. Found to have severe rust with perforation underneath where plastic debris covers are mounted. It is currently installed on vehicle at time of complaint. The failure of the subframe can disable the vehicle while driving, disconnect the axle and surrounding components, and cause an accident with one or more vehicles on the road. Audi has a 12 year/unlimited mileage warranty but claims it is not covered under warranty. Repair is quoted around ~$6000 including parts and labor.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Invoice from mechanic states my water pump failed along with other engine components which led to a domino effect of system failures and leaks with potential to cause fire. Similar recalls have been issued for 2014 Audi Q5s

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I have noticed 2 times that my engine burn out oil very quick before the next predicted oil change and lead to safety risk of boosting engine while driving long distance if there is no auto one near. After speaking with one of the maintenance guy the last time I went for oil change at Jiffy live, He told me that there was a recall for the same problem with some other Audi models. How could we expect your help to address this safety concern with the manufacturer. This is very dangerous situation that you can’t neglect. Best regards,

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I took my Audi Q5 TDI to the Garage for servicing and was told of heavy rusting on both sides of the rear subframe. The rusting is bad and can almost break the subframe It seems to be a known issue in Audi Q5 models, however, the dealership and Audi of America have refused to cover it as a manufacturing defect. The car has 88000 miles, and at this point, I think it may not be safe to drive. I am urging NTSB to review this issue and see if the issue can be resolved by the manufacturer at their cost.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle briefly lost motive power and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the daughter's residence. The contact stated that weeks before the failure, while the vehicle was being serviced at the dealer, it was determined that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the first failure. The failure mileage was 72,919.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Dec 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the EPC (Electronic Power Control) warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was determined that the vehicle was under recall; however, parts were not available. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer when parts became available and the vehicle as repaired; however, the failure reoccurred approximately 6 years after the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

May 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

There is severe rust in the rear subframe. It's so bad that the rust has made holes right through the subframe - compromising its integrity. This is a serious safety issue as the subframe holds the suspension and wheels and could break at any point. This is not normal wear and tear. This is a manufacturer's defect and a major safety issue that needs to be addressed immediately.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

It has been very cold here in the North East. Under freezing for more than a month. My door lock sensors stopped working about 4-5 weeks ago. Two days ago I was driving and the power steering stopped working. Then after about 2 days it began working again. Just as the temps went above freezing. And the door lock sensors started working again. I had noticed over the last month or so that papers I had behind the front seat when I went to retrieve them were very wet, soaked. I took my car to my mechanic today and he told me that the computer is under the front seat. And water in this area may be causing the failure of the power steering and the door locks. So he said I should report it to you and you could possibly help.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Took my vehicle in for an alignment, was told by my local Audi dealer the rear subframe has rotted through and will need to be replaced. I asked how could this happen on a vehicle under 10 years? They said they see a lot of Q5's with similar rust issues due to a design flaw where a plastic protective cover cups and holds water directly on the structural part of the vehicle. They quoted me $8,000 to fix and offered no assistance on the price. Many, MANY others in forums and social media pages have the same issue and are forced to pay out of pocket for this issue caused by Audi.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle stopped while driving!!! Middle of the driving. Very dangerous. And it happened twice. With that as the headline, another known problem with this vehicle has been the engine oil needing to be filled literally every month. And time to time it resulted in “engine light” to come. So we kind of ended up in a “wolf cry” and really didn’t act. However, we did take care to Audi service for oil refill and they IGNORED to do the inspection on engine light well under 100,000 miles and 10yrs on warranty. So our recent car stopped when we were just about 2 months over 10yrs and 3,000 miles over 100,000 mile warranty Audi has for the problem needs repaired. Please help. Now Audi is saying we needed to pay almost $6,000 to get that repaired. Which they have seen for months prior to the 10yrs and 100,000. It’s really a unfair business practice.

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

May 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at 10 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The engine and EPC warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who stated that the failure was due to the timing chain, piston rings, and a hole in the valve. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Oil consumption Burns a lot of oil

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Timing chain went out

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Dec 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 12/1, around 7:20am my fiancé and I were getting ready to leave for work; there was frost on the car so my fiancé went out to start it and turn on the defrosters. After starting the car, he turned on the heater and front and rear defrosters, he then went inside to retrieve some items we needed to load into the car. He was inside for about 5 minutes before coming out to see smoke emanating from right side of the trunk, which quickly turned into a small fire, whose point of origin was the rear fuse compartment. He ran inside to grab water to try and put it out, but due to how quickly it was spreading, as well as the fact that it was electrical nature, the water only served to temporary diminish but not extinguish the flames. We then used an ABC rated fire extinguisher from our kitchen, which did suppress and extinguish the fire. The vehicle still started, and we were able to drive it from our driveway to the side of our home, however, with the risk of it igniting again or creating any other failures, in addition to the guidance provided by our insurance company and Audi Corporate, we had the vehicle towed to an Audi dealership for further investigation. There was no indication prior to this that would lead us to believe the car would catch fire. We consider ourselves to be lucky that we were not driving as we would have no way to extinguish the fire on the side of the road. Since this incident, an investigation was done by Audi corporate. It was determined that there was corrosion within the right trunk compartment caused by water at some point which caused a short considering the body module and fuses are located there. However, Audi claims no responsibility in the water getting into the trunk or any manufacturing defects. Upon our own research though, we’ve seen many reports of Q models have sunroofs draining into the interior. The car has since been totaled by insurance due to repair estimates nearing $29,000 and taken to Copart auction.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Dec 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The car has a known "oil consumption issue" that has led to engine failure that Audi has failed to take responsibility for. This is a 2104 Audi Q5. The car is in San Francisco and available for inspection. The car vibrates and can't be safely driven at highway speeds, if the engine suddenly lost power on the highway it could be a major safety issue for the driver and other drivers. The dealer has reproduced the issue and diagnosed it as needing new Pistons and Rings at 99,000 miles (but it has had this issue since in the 60,000 mile range, they just said keep adding oil). It has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives, just the dealers. I'm sure some warning lights came on, but could not say which ones or when.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

May 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

P235/55/R19 105V Tire at 4/32s is developing some peeling/de-laminating tread on all tires. One tire developed crack that when moved exposes the internal belts. At risk at sidewall failure.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In 2017 while driving in 10 degree weather, the overheat warning light and message to turn off engine came in. The car was not actually overheating and we took it straight to the dealership. They were not able to get it to replicate and advised it was possibly a faulty sensor. Fast forward to fall of 2023, the same warning light came on as soon as the car was turned on. Still no actual overheating per the dial in the car. We did check the coolant level and it was low. Dealership looked at and stated the didn't see any leaks and suggested replacing thermostat. Took to another shop and they found a small leak in the water pump so we had it replaced. Car has less than 60k miles on it. Engine failure, fire are all concerns. Especially when commuting at high speeds on a highway. We're either dealing with a faulty water pump or thermostat.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Sep 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and lost motive power. The contact's son was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Unknown, but can assure the gas tanks has cracks and leaking gas, along with the smell of gas inside the car and outside the car. Called Audi and spoke with a rep but they dont want to acknowledge the recall which was issued for the vehicle. I made an appointment with Audi New Orleans, but the earliest appointment to get the vehicle check is August 28th, 2023. I have to go to work and the car can possibly catch a fire to the tank actually leaking. This is extremely dangerous and life threating. I definetly need help because let Audi tell it they dont see a recall at all for my vehicle.

Reported

Jul 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I recently discovered that my Q5 tubular rear subframe/crossmember (part # 8R0505235N) has rusted thru near a bushing that supports the rear transaxle. The rust thru area at the transaxle is about a foot long. This subframe supports the rear axle and all the rear suspension components. I brought my Q5 to the local Audi dealer and they took a video showing two areas on the subframe that have rusted thru, the bushing area supporting the transaxle and also an area supporting the left rear suspension. The dealership did not allow me to take the Q5 back and gave me a loaner vehicle to drive until the subframe can be replaced. The dealership contacted Audi North America and Audi agreed to pay 40% of the cost to replace the rear subframe. I think Audi should pay 100% as this is a serious safety issue. My Q5 has no other areas of corrosion except a slight amount of surface rust on the exhaust and is otherwise in excellent condition with only 50,444 miles. It has always been garaged since purchased new and has been in no accidents. The Audi service tech even complimented me on how clean my Q5 was at 10 years old. PS - How can I include an attachment of the video taken by the Audi dealership?

Reported

Apr 2023

Incident date

Apr 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Steering shaft rusted and sized. Water and mag chloride got passed the seal causing the slip joint of the steering shaft to corrode and size. The outer tube of the shaft was almost corroded through with visible holes in the metal. I believe this to be a safety concern do to the possibility of the shaft braking while driving. I am a certified Audi technician and have seen this problem on other similar vehicles. This is my personal vehicle and I have the old steering shaft for inspection if needed.

Reported

Feb 2023

Incident date

Feb 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I bought my 2014 Audi Q5 in September of 2019 with 74, 291 miles from a reputable dealership in Cleveland, OH. After a few months of driving, I began to notice that the vehicle did not retain oil. This caused oil leaks which led to internal spillage, subsequent parts damage and random stalling. As a result, in May of 2022, during rush hour traffic, my car failed to accelerate mid-intersection, leaving myself and my passengers in danger of collision. After dealership and independent inspection, it was determined there was an issue with the piston rings in the 2.0 Turbo engine. After speaking with the mechanic, Audi USA and conducting online research, I found that this has been noted and reported to Audi on several occasions for makes and models dating as far back as 2012. Because this is major engine issue, I fear for what other repercussions may result from the negligence. Upon further research, I also found that several class action lawsuits have been filed country-wide due to concern of this factory malfunction. These vehicles are large and capable of irreparable damage. Whatever steps can be taken to avoid sudden engine failure similar to my own is of highest priority.

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Aug 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Engine oil consumption between every 200miles and 300miles spends a quarter of complete engine oil

Reported

May 2022

Incident date

Sep 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am reporting Audi Side Assist System fault. Audi assist among other things provides blind spot warning and is major safety feature in the car. Basically when I am switching lanes on, I get existance of car in blind spot. When driving in January I received warning message that said Audi Side Assist System fault. I scheduled service for Feb 3 and the car was repaired by Feb 4. Originally they suspected accident or repair work done around the back bumper. Later they realized that none was done and fixed the issue by "alignment". During that work they found out that the two assist modules have different versions which is surprising since all my service was done at Audi San Jose dealership and never repaired that function. This means that my car original parts has version mismatch. The function worked OK for several weeks but failed again on April 1. I still did not repair it but I am scheduled on May 10 (earliest date). The fault is still on!

Reported

May 2022

Incident date

Apr 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Timing chain, turbocharger and high pressure fuel pump has to be replaced for the car with 75000 miles on it. Was advised by the shop supervisor that it’s caused by faulty engine. That this type of damage is highly unlikely for the car under 100000 miles. Turbocharger is under extended warranty from the previous Audi recall.

Reported

Apr 2022

Incident date

Apr 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Check engine light on and diagnostic test shows particular matter sensor malfunction. This is apparently under recall, but my VIN is not included

Reported

Feb 2022

Incident date

Jan 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I have a 2014 Audi Q5 Premium Plus with 3.0 liter engine. I was in Wolfeboro NH this past weekend and it was very cold, -15 at night. My vehicle has 123000 miles on it and has run with no issues to this point. Luckily , I parked the car to go into store and when I came out DSC red warning light came on , could not budge the steering wheel. Looked up issue in manual and said do not drive. I am from CT so no car now in NH. I had vehicle towed to closest Audi dealer , 60 miles away for service. It turns out to be I need a whole new steering column due to cold temperatures. If this happened while driving it would have been devastating. My issue is there was a recall on the 2014 SQ5 for the exact same issue. I have found numerous complaints for the same issue for the same vehicle, why has there not been recall? This could have ben a deadly incident in the wrong situation. Vehicle at Audi dealer to the tune of $3600 for repairs.

Reported

Jan 2022

Incident date

Jan 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Seatbelt tensioner and air bags failed to deploy when the vehicles was in a severe frontal collision when another vehicle ran a stop sign exiting the highway.

Reported

Jan 2022

Incident date

Dec 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash 1 injuries

My 2014 Audi Q5 2.0L Turbo, at 84339 miles, is consuming oil between oil changes. 4300 miles after my last oil change by the Audi dealership, I had to add oil. The dealership, Gwinnett Audi, 3190 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30090, said that Audi is paying for the oil top off for all customers. Seems odd that if this is normal that Audi would voluntarily reimburse the dealership for this expense. I am concerned, based on internet searches, that this will continue to get worse and I will be adding more and more oil without getting the problem resolved. The dealership told me it would cost $7,000 to fix the engine and there is no longer a warranty. This vehicle should not be burning oil at $80,000 miles. Audi needs to make permanent repairs to fix the problem, not just put a bandaid on it. I am not the only Audi owner with this problem.

Reported

Aug 2021

Incident date

Aug 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am writing about an incident that happened to my wife while she was driving my car from Los Angeles, CA to Phoenix, AZ on June 16, 2021. My wife was driving the Audi Q5 at approximately 75mph and 125 miles west of Phoenix (near the CA/AZ border) when the car suddenly loss power. She stepped on the gas and noticed the speed gradually dropping. Fortunately, she had the presence of mind and barely had enough time to pull over to the shoulder. It was at this point that she called to tell me that the car would no longer start and the “check engine” and “EPC” light indicators were illuminated. This occurred at approximately 12:30 noon during a severe heatwave where the outside temperature was 117 degrees. I asked her to wait for 10 minutes to try to restart the car; the car would not restart. She called AAA Towing and was told the wait would be over one hour because of the rural location (Quartzsite, AZ). She ended up waiting a little over 3 hours in her car, without air conditioning, in 117 degrees for a tow truck driver to arrive. The car was towed to her sister’s house in Goodyear, AZ at a cost of $673. The next day, she had the car towed to the Audi Dealership in Peoria, AZ where it was diagnosed the car had suffered a fuel vapor lock due to the heat. The car has less than 28,000 miles on the odometer when the incident happened. Audi Peoria kept the car for a couple of days because the parts had to be ordered from Los Angeles. Ultimately, the repair bill from the dealership came to $1,983. I felt helpless and scared for my wife that I was not able to assist her as I was 3 hours away. What if my wife (or another driver) was unable to pull over to the side of the road? The chances of an accident are dramatically increased if the vehicle was stuck on the highway. As you can imagine, my wife has been traumatized by this incident and we are both fearful that this incident can happen again. Therefore, we request that NHTSA investigate this incident.

Reported

Jun 2021

Incident date

Jun 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

This SUV has a 2.0 engine that consumes oil. I have to add a quart every 200-300 miles as the IP light indicates the engine is at the minimum oil level. This is not normal to be adding oil this frequently. Audi/VW has had problems in the past with vehicles that used excessive amounts of oil and a settlement was reached with owners. It seems they have not fixed the issue and I believe an investigation is needed and corrective action should be taken again by Audi/VW to make owners whole and to finally fix the problem. They need to find the root cause of this problem and fix it.

Reported

Jun 2021

Incident date

Jun 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

WHILE DRIVING, THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING FAILED, ALMOST CAUSING A HEAD ON COLLISION. MY DAUGHTER WAS TURNING LEFT WHEN SUDDENLY SHE WAS UNABLE TO PROPERLY STEER. THANKFULLY, SHE WAS ABLE TO VEER OFF THE ROAD SAFELY. THIS PART HAS BEEN RECALLED ON THE AUDI SQ5, BUT NOT THE Q5. ACCORDING TO MY RESEARCH, MULTIPLE AUDI Q5 OWNERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE.

Reported

May 2021

Incident date

Apr 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

SLIGHT OIL LEAK FROM OIL COOLER LINE SLIGHT LEAK AT THE COOLANT RESERVOIR. BURNS OIL QUICKLY

Reported

Apr 2021

Incident date

Jul 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

WHEN CLOSING THE TRUNK THE DASH MARKS AS IF IT WERE OPEN. I HAVE TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE TRUNK SEVERAL TIMES SO THAT IT STOPS MARKING AS IF IT WERE OPEN.

Reported

Apr 2021

Incident date

Apr 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

SQUEAKS AND/OR RATTLES ARE HEARD FROM THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF AREA.

Reported

Apr 2021

Incident date

Apr 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

AFTER 53661 CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON,AFTER DRIVING IT IT WENT OFF ONLY TO COME BACK ON AND STAY ON. AFTER TAKING IT TO THE DEALER "FOUND TIMING CHAIN STRETCHED. REPLACED TIMING CHAIN AND TENSONER"

Reported

Feb 2021

Incident date

Feb 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING OUT OF HIS DRIVEWAY, HE LOST CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME LOOSENED. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUDI GAINESVILLE (1920 N MAIN ST, GAINESVILLE, FL 32609) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE RACK & PINION AND ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST STEERING SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000. *LN CONSUMER STATED POWER STEERING SHUTS DOWN IN COLD CONDITIONS AND SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER.*JB*LN*JB

Reported

Jan 2021

Incident date

Dec 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

SERIOUSLY DANGEROUS STEERING FAILURE IN 2014 AUDI Q5: WARMED THE CAR UP, DROVE 15 MINUTES TO A GAS STATION, TURNED IT OFF TO FUEL UP AND WENT TO RESTART AFTER ENGINE WAS OFF FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES, UPON START UP AND THE MESSAGE DISPLAYED "STEERING DEFECTIVE" DO NOT DRIVE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING WAS NON FUNCTIONAL AND THE WHEEL ESSENTIALLY LOCKED UP. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE, BOTH AT VERY COLD TEMPERATURES (ONCE AT -40 DEGREES BELOW AND ONCE AT -15 DEGREES BELOW ZERO). SOME QUICK INTERNET SEARCHING LEADS TO LOTS OF COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME SITUATION FOR 2014-2015 Q5'S. THE SQ5 OF THE SAME YEAR HAS A RECALL FOR THIS VERY ISSUE BUT THE Q5'S FOR SOME REASON DID NOT GET THE RECALL. IT SOUNDS LIKE IN SOME INSTANCES ITS A SIMPLE SOFTWARE UPDATE AND IN SOME CASES ITS AN ENTIRE NEW STEERING RACK REPLACEMENT COSTING UP TO $5,000. IT SOUNDS LIKE AUDI HAS NOT COVERED THIS ISSUE UNDER WARRANTIES NOR HAS IT ISSUED A RECALL TO COVER THE SAME ISSUE ON THE Q5'S AS WAS EXPERIENCES WITH THE SQ5 OF THE SAME YEAR (RECALL #48M1 & NHTSA #11184036). I AM 300 MILES FROM THE NEAREST AUDI DEALER. AUDI SAYS THEY WILL NOT COVER IT BECAUSE ITS OUT OF WARRANTY. I EXPLAINED IT MATCHES A RECALL FOR THE SQ5 AND BELIEVE THE Q5 WAS OVERLOOKED WITH THAT RECALL, THEY WERE OF NO ASSISTANCE. AUDI SAYS I CAN PAY SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS TO HAVE IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP BUT THEY ARE NOT LIKELY GOING TO COVER ANY OF IT SINCE THERE IS NO RECALL. SEEMS AS THOUGH THERE ARE A LOT OF US OUT THERE THAT HAVE THE SAME SAFETY ISSUE, WHAT CAN BE DONE TO GET THIS SAFETY ISSUE FIXED BY AUDI? LUCKILY I WAS STATIONARY ON BOTH OCCASIONS OTHERWISE THIS WOULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS CRASH AND POSSIBLE INJURY. IM SCARED TO DRIVE IN COLD WEATHER ANYMORE. I WOULD THINK AUDI WOULD CARE ABOUT SUCH A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE!

Reported

Dec 2020

Incident date

Dec 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sedan and Audi Q5 vehicles, 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles and 2013-2016 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can either become blocked with debris from the cooling system causing it to overheat or can short-circuit from moisture within the pump.

Risk: A blocked pump or a short-circuited pump can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the pumps, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number's for this recall is 19N3/19N4. Note: This recall is in additional to the coolant pump software update applied as a remedy under recall 17V002.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Cabriolet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad and Q5 vehicles. Contact corrosion within the electrical connector for the auxiliary heater may cause the heater wires to overheat or melt.

Risk: The melted wires can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the auxiliary heater and, as necessary, update the software, free of charge. The Recall began November 27, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 80C5 and 80C6.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Audi Q5 and 2013-2017 Audi Q7 vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump flange if cracks are present. Flanges that do not have cracks will have a protective film applied. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 3, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20Z8. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 16V-660.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Audi Q5 vehicles. The sunroof drainage system may allow water to soak into the foam surrounding the side head air bag inflator canister resulting in the corrosion of the canister. If this happens, the corrosion can weaken the canister and the inflator could fracture without air bag deployment, propelling fragments into the passenger compartment, striking and causing serious injury to vehicle occupants.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator and either coat it or replace it, as necessary, after removing the surrounding foam, free of charge. The recall is expected to began March 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69P1.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 vehicles, 2013-2016 Audi Allroad and Audi A4 vehicles and 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can be blocked with debris from the cooling system, resulting in the pump overheating.

Risk: If the coolant pump overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will update the software so that the power supply to the coolant pump is deactivated if the pump becomes blocked with debris, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 19M1.