TireKick

Model-year record

2020 Audi Q5
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2020 Audi Q5

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

34

Reports to NHTSA, 2020

Safety recalls

6

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

25.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (24% of 34 reports), followed by unknown or other (15%).

Electrical System24% · 8 reports
Unknown Or Other15% · 5 reports
Engine12% · 4 reports
Power Train6% · 2 reports
Service Brakes6% · 2 reports
Steering6% · 2 reports
Suspension6% · 2 reports
Wheels6% · 2 reports

+ 7 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 34 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11617901, ODI 11556844, ODI 11470918, ODI 11448154, ODI 11349103.

Individual complaint reports(34)

Showing the 34 most recent reports
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11703932 · crashDetails +

Traffic stopped very quickly. The automatic breaking did not engage, resulting in a crash and a total loss of the vehicle. I bought the Audi due to quality safety features so this incident was very disappointing and costly for our family.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11703932 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2025 · ODI 11699189Details +

Purchased a 2020 Audi Q5 sold as-is. Within 30 days, the transmission malfunctioned and the vehicle lost power. A dealer estimated repairs would cost around $27,000. This sudden loss of drive ability poses a safety risk.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11699189 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2025 · ODI 11698217Details +

Our vehicle started jerking when it transitioned from EV mode to Hybrid (gas engine). I found TSB 2079556, which describes exactly the diagnostic codes our car has for all eight battery packs. This is clearly a known problem, and as the car is out of its original warranty I would have to pay for this myself. Audi should replace the battery packs free of charge as they were clearly defective.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11698217 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesOct 2025 · ODI 11694972Details +

I understand that there have been recalls for the brake booster in some 2020 Audi Q5s. I have had my brake booster light come on, but my VIN is not in the recall. My car has less than 50,000 miles on it and I should not be having this issue. I think my car should be recalled and this issue should be fixed by Audi. The cost to repair this issue is around $3000.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11694972 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2025 · ODI 11666097Details +

I purchased a pre-owned Audi in August 2023 from a franchised dealer. I was explicitly told there were no open recalls or issues. In May 2024, the vehicle suffered a complete electrical failure during use—warning lights flashed, wipers activated on their own, the steering wheel moved without input, and the windows opened/closed erratically. It was inoperable and could not shift into neutral. A flatbed tow was required, and the vehicle had to be physically forced off the truck at home. The next morning, the authorized service center initially refused the tow but later accepted it after I explained the severity. A service advisor confirmed the failure was due to an active safety recall and that a replacement control module was unavailable. I was denied a loaner until I escalated the issue to a manager. For months, I received repeated notices that there were no updates or parts available. The loaner was significantly smaller and disrupted both personal and work transportation. On June 5, 2025, the dealer said the part would never arrive and advised me to request a buyback through Audi corporate. I did so. On June 10, the dealer claimed the buyback was approved and told me to return the loaner. When I asked for verification, they changed their story. I contacted Audi corporate and was told the buyback had been denied, confirming the dealer had misrepresented the situation. This experience reflects deceptive business practices, potential violations of recall disclosure laws, and failure to resolve a known safety defect. My safety—and that of my pregnant wife—was placed at risk due to the sale of a recalled vehicle. I urge NHTSA to investigate. Their actions show a disregard for safety, federal compliance, and consumer rights. Others may not be as lucky.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11666097 at NHTSA →
Chest ClipApr 2025 · ODI 11653229Details +

The seatbelt comes loose and Nuna sent me a pad and screwdriver and refused to replace the seat. The harness won’t stay tight and I do not trust the seat to be safe for my child

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11653229 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2025 · ODI 11643069Details +

Without warning, on [XXX, my 2020 Audi Q5 stopped working. I called Audi Care, who arranged a tow to the nearest Audi dealer, the Q5 was under manufacturer warranty. Audi had previously recalled its gateway control module; resolution, put a bag over the part. Audi completed the “fix” upon recall. Failure of that part is catastrophic; it renders the vehicle disabled; it cannot even be put into Neutral. My Q5 was chain dragged onto a flatbed and taken to Audi for service. Audi confirmed the gateway control module failed, stating the component needed to be replaced. The part was back-ordered and would take 7-10 business days. After nearly 8 weeks with no part, on April 2, 2024 the Q5 and repair were transferred to the Audi dealer I purchased the Q5 from. The part was listed as “high priority”, the Q5 was not drivable. April, May, June and July passed, no part. Audi service continued to claim the part was being made in Germany. Each month I was told the part would arrive, it never did. In August 2024, I contacted VW America (Audi’s parent company), to request a buyback. Six months had passed, there was no sign of the part. VW America requested the repair order, purchase agreement, warranty info and registration. On [XXX], I submitted a buyback request with all documents. On [XXX], VW of America refused to settle, and suggested I initiate a case with the Better Business Bureau. BBB determined the Q5 was eligible and opened a claim. I uploaded all requested documents to the BBB case. Audi did not respond. The case was set to go to arbitration, then BBB suddenly determined the Q5 was not eligible; it was over three years old, it had been over three when the case was opened. Nearly 10 months after the Q5 stopped working, I contacted the dealer, asking them to intervene. Audi refused to admit it could not make the part. Their solution, buy a new car. Audi still owes me thousands of dollars for an extended warranty on a Q5 it could not repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11643069 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2025 · ODI 11639522Details +

An Electrical Malfunction has caused several safety issues causing the car engine to idle and have "drive system malfunction" The warning system being displays on the dashboard has show not only cooling issues but issues relating to the brakes and overall engine making the car unsafe to drive. The Audi Pre-sense system engages the brakes while driving a varies fast speeds usually while on the highway.

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11639522 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2025 · ODI 11639342Details +

Ecu Malfunction leading to Cooling system malfunction The car after idling more than 30 min with the A/C off has a "drive system malfunction". The warning displays on the dash and the engine runs violently rough until the car shuts itself off. The Audi has done this several times, though not while driving. This problem creates a lot of heat in the engine bay and has led to a problem in my cooling system pipes, causing multiple points of piping to burst. The coolant expansion tank also warped and leaks, as well as the upper radiator hose. The problem with safety is the car will spray coolant onto the wheel well making the brakes less effective. This problem, which seemed to arise from the car ecu overheating during idle, could cause an undesirable effect while driving, potentially leading to an accident. The other issue is that the car is overheating due to a compromised cooling system that leaks coolant fluid. This may damage the engine and other engine bay components. The warning sign and first instance i can recall the "drive system malfunction" happening was in February of last year, a month after purchase. The cooling system started leaking profusely 4 months after the first "drive system malfunction".

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11639342 at NHTSA →
WheelsNov 2024 · ODI 11623104Details +

My dealership informed me that my tires were feathering at the edges and wearing unevenly. I found information that there was a recall for this problem. There was a recall (4215) that stated there was a misalignment in the suspension creating the uneven wearing. This included my car model. I need information regarding why my car isn't listed for the recall. The car does have a weird skip in making hard turns.

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11623104 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2024 · ODI 11617901 · fireDetails +

Jul 9 2024. Plug-in hybrid battery fire. Car plugged in at 11:10am with an empty battery. At 1:45pm we noticed white smoke emitting from the battery, (rear left near charge port). Immediately unplugged. Fire Department on scene, car pushed to street. Disconnected battery, observed heat and some black residue in the battery compartment, FD deemed it no longer an immediate threat, so they departed. At 3:02pm the battery ignited and quickly developed into fully involved car fire. FD returned at 3:08pm and extinguished the fire by 3:09. Filed an insurance claim. Total loss. AudiUSA has not answered phone calls, emails, messages. They assigned a rep to the incident but he has never made any contact, despite my attempts to reach him.

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11617901 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesAug 2024 · ODI 11611646Details +

Brake Booster Brake Serví Unit faulty Making noise, took t mechanic and I was told there is a technical service bulletin on this. I called Audi of Danbury and I was told there is no recall. I was told by my mechanic it can cause car t run bad and die.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11611646 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2024 · ODI 11606175Details +

On 12-18-2024, I brought a Audi Q5 2020 from Lynbrook Audi dealership in New york, approximately weeks after the vehicle engine oil light came on to replenish engine oil. I notified the sales representative of the issue, he stated that the vehicle was serviced on 09-2023. After our conversation the vehicle engine oil light continue to light up for oil replenish every 2 to 3 weeks for the past 7 months, I contacted the manufacturer and dealership and both of them is pointing fingers at each other instead of fixing the vehicle. Every time the engine oil light came on i have to take the vehicle to the dealership to replenish. The problem was never resolved.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11606175 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2024 · ODI 11590080 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

Subject: Formal Complaint Regarding Vehicle Safety Issue with 2020 Audi Q5 Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding a critical safety issue with my 2020 Audi Q5, as advised by the New York State Division of Consumer Protection. Please find attached a copy of the Division's correspondence dated May 21, 2024, concerning my initial complaint against Audi of America, Inc., along with supporting documents pertinent to this case. On April 10, 2024, while parking in the driveway despite applying the brakes, and despite the reduced speed, the vehicle suddenly accelerated (launching/jumping forward motion) and collided with the side of the house. On April 11, 2024, my auto insurance adjuster confirmed the vehicle was towed to the Southampton Audi Dealership for an investigation, of which supporting documentation is also attached. Following this incident, I alerted Audi of America on April 15, 2024, and have since made several follow-up communications concerning the safety risks posed by the vehicle's unexpected behavior. Copies of these communications are enclosed for your reference. Unfortunately, there has been a significant lack of substantive responses from Audi of America, leaving the issue unresolved and ongoing safety concerns unaddressed. I appreciate your assistance with this matter and look forward to your assistance in ensuring that this safety concern is adequately resolved. Very truly yours

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11590080 at NHTSA →
Power TrainFeb 2024 · ODI 11572738Details +

My Transmission failed to go in forward and was racing in drive. I put it reverse and that worked but put back into drive it races then makes a bang and instantly goes into drive. I had car towed to Audi of Allentown. They initially went over vehicle couldn't find issue then it did it to them. They said it had a code for solenoid. They changed valve body and it had codes so they were in contact with Audi Hotline they had them change Mechatronic unit also and the issue was solved, They sent me video, I picked up car and gave them loaner back, I used car local after a few times then it did it again. Had car towed to Audi of Allentown again, they couldn't find issue and sent me video of car. I went to pickup vehicle and they were getting vehicle ready and it did it to them and they said they would let service know. They gave me a loaner. I've called and they haven't had vehicle do it again until today. They videoed it and sent it to Audi Hotline (engineers). There waiting on a reply from Audi. The vehicle is unsafe-- if it did it to me while entering a highway and cut out I could be hit in from rear and it would be a catastrophic accident. Or if it did this at a crosswalk that could be another issue but with pedestrians. If I get car back and it happens again then it cant be fixed and its unsafe I'll need to get a lawyer to rectify this situation.

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11572738 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11560541Details +

Complete failure of the car to start or turn on. This occurred once in 2021 and a second time in 2023. Taken to dealership. Diagnosed with a computer problem. Fixed by dealership.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11560541 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2023 · ODI 11556844Details +

We were driving today at around 11:30am and all of a sudden the “Audi Presense” light came on at the same time the car brakes abruptly slowed down the car for about 5 seconds or so and then released. Today is a beautiful sunny day and there were no vehicles anywhere or anything in roadway on the road we were traveling on. The jerking /abrupt slowdown really surprised us. We will go to Audi dealer asap but now we don’t trust when it will happen again. A car could have hit us from behind.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11556844 at NHTSA →
Back Over PreventionAug 2023 · ODI 11536289Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image was intermittently blank or distorted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and to a second dealer, Santa Monica Audi (1020 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401), on several occasions; however, the dealers were unable to duplicate the failure. The dealers replaced the rearview camera twice; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the second dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11536289 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperMay 2023 · ODI 11523612Details +

Stopped on the road, the rear window exploded with a very loud boom. I pulled over and talked to the driver behind me who also pulled over and asked if he saw anything, he said no, only heard the boom. We looked in the back of the car and no projectile or foreign object. I moved to a nearby parking lot and pushed as much of the broken glass into the car as I could so it wouldn't fall off on the road. There were no cracks or defects identifiable before hand. The car was clean and any issues would have been visible. There was no warning of the explosion. I have brought the car in to the dealer, Fletcher Jones in Chicago.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11523612 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJan 2023 · ODI 11500864 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

Incident occurred as I was waiting third in line to add fuel to my Audi. Usually when I am in a long wait I put my vehicle in neutral and to move forward then I have to put my foot on brake to change gears. In this incident I did just that when car in front moved up, but the car suddenly accelerated forward quickly and hit with force the car in front. I put car in reverse to back off with intent to shut down car to exit in order to assess damage and provide insurance information. Instead when I went into reverse the car shot uncontrollably backward 20-30 feet at high speed striking another car entering the fueling area. In either the forward motion and or the backward motion of car did the sensors or brake assistance system deploy. The car will be inspected by both Audi America and also by a third party appointed by my insurance provider.

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11500864 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceOct 2022 · ODI 11490465Details +

The vehicle is a 2020 Audi Q5 Premium Plus model with 15,525 miles on it. I was driving at 55 mph on a two lane country road and approaching an intersection at 11:55 AM ET. Road and weather conditions were perfect. Clear, sunny weather and 65 degrees. Recently paved roadway which was clear and dry. There were no vehicles in front, behind or at the intersection. No pedestrians or animals. Cruise control was off. My foot was on the accelerator pedal. Suddenly, for no apparent reason, the Audi Pre-Sense system engaged. The brakes were automatically applied which instantly reduced speed to about 40 mph. Steering wheel shook briefly, there was a brief audible alert, and then a Audi PreSense triangle warning symbol appeared on the instrument gauge cluster. I was thrown into my seat belt when the car quickly decelerated. The entire incident was probably 5 seconds although it seemed longer in the moment. I startled but maintained control of the vehicle. Luckily, I have a previously scheduled dealer maintenance appointment this coming week. This item will be at the top of the list.

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Oct 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11490465 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2022 · ODI 11486864Details +

I have this car and it "drinks" about 300mL of coolant between 800-1000 miles. I have to add coolant once a while, but not much... Went to the dealership and they did an inspection and pressure test and came back all normal. They told me the car will use coolant during summer?! I see many other people having similar issues on the Audi Forum. Please investigate as VW tends to make poor-quality water pump and I hope it is not the engine consuming it...

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11486864 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2022 · ODI 11470918Details +

The car was constantly smelling like smoke. It felt like it was going to catch fire. I got it serviced when it had to be serviced at 15k but Audi dealership did not warn of any recall and mentioned everything was great with the car. In the end I had to sell the car which was in April, 22 because I didn’t feel safe driving the car anymore. I would also constantly get airbag being deployed warnings on the screen and one time the car shut down automatically as I was driving at about 45Mph going up the mountain

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11470918 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJun 2022 · ODI 11469785Details +

Recall Number: 22V034 Audi has a current recall impacting the alignment of the rear axle. It is causing uneven and unsafe wear on the rear tires. Our tires are experiencing this greatly. We took the car into our Audi dealership. Audi, the manufacturer, rejected the request for tire replacement claiming alignment is within specification. However, if you take even a small glance at our tires, it is clear there is something wrong due to the vehicle, matching the description of the recall to a T. This is a serious safety issue that Audi is not properly addressing.

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Jun 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11469785 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2022 · ODI 11465067Details +

Sun roof exploded for no reason. No rock hit it, driving on the highway with no other cars around

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11465067 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2022 · ODI 11464750Details +

The hood has opened 3 different times with no warning while driving down the road.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11464750 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMar 2022 · ODI 11457903Details +

RECEIVED LETTER FROM AUDI REGARDING NHTSA:22V034. LETTER INDICATED THERE WAS A DEFECT WITH THE REAR AXLE SUSPENSION ALIGNMENT WHICH COULD LEAD TO PREMATURE AND EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR AND, POTENTIAL TIRE FAILURE. AFTER INSPECTION, DEALER (FLETCHER JONE AUDI, COSTA MESA, CA) SAID THERE WERE NO ISSUES DESPITE PRESENCE OF EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR. TIRES ONLY HAD 18,000 MILES ON THEM AND HAD BEEN ROTATED AT 10,000 BY FLETCHER JONES AUDI. I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD NOT DO ANY WORK, REPAIRS OR REPLACE TIRES.

Reported
Mar 2022
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11457903 at NHTSA →
WheelsMar 2022 · ODI 11457551Details +

I went to dealership to fix recall and the dealership didn't finish work on recall because they wanted me to pay for an alignment when it says it should off been fixed on your website because the recall damaged my tires unevenly.

Reported
Mar 2022
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11457551 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2022 · ODI 11448154Details +

Yesterday I driving my AUDI Q5 2020 on the expressway , then with no warning multiple warning and error messages suddenly appeared on dashboard. The Entire car immediately shut down in middle of the expressway, no time for me to put on my hazard, no time for me to safely pull over ..With difficulty moving it to safety. The car wouldn't start and I was in the middle of the expressway which put me at great risk along with my passengers and surrounding vehicles.... I was scared and shocked Very dangerous !!!!

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11448154 at NHTSA →
SteeringNov 2021 · ODI 11442139Details +

Gateway control modular failure. At dealer currently. We took pictures. Multiple reports of the exact same thing on Audi forums online. Audi confirmed same issue. While driving car it suddenly stopped and the emergency brake was automatically applied. No warning, no way to Live the car to safety, all the warning lights began to flash, windows started to rolling up and down. Then the car just turned off. Unable to start it, turn it on, move it, nothing. Needed a special tow truck to have it towed to dealer. A serious safety issue. I am 8 m pregnant, had my brother and 4 year old nephew in car. I am concerned for my safety but equally concerned for every Q5 has this gateway module in this location. Every person driving a Q5 and other drivers can be affected by the design flaw of the location/ lack of protection of this gateway module. We were lucky we were not on the highway. What if this happened on a highway at high speeds or in a curve.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11442139 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2021 · ODI 11421025 · fire · 1 injuriesDetails +

On July 14, 2020, my daughter and I drove my leased Audi Q5 to Cari’s sister’s home. As I pulled in the driveway, and before I turned off the vehicle and exited the car, smoke began to billow from the engine compartment and enter the interior. My daughter and I were suddenly engulfed by white smoke, and evacuated the vehicle immediately. With the use of a garden hose and fire extinguishers, my sister, brother-in-law, and I were able to subdue the fire until the fire department arrived and extinguished it fully. My Audi Q5 was totaled due to this fire that, suddenly and without warning, engulfed the engine compartment. After the incident, Audi inspected the vehicle. Ultimately, Audi stated that the cause/origin of the engine compartment fire was due to the turbocharger electronic waste gate malfunction. My daughter and I were stunned, shocked, and scared by the car’s sudden and unexpected combustion. Naturally, the trauma and terror of having a car ignite for seemingly no reason are significant, and weigh on my daughter and me. First, the terror of having to fend off a car fire from surrounding people and property is arduous and horrible. Second, my daughter, to this day, still thinks that a car in which she is a passenger may erupt in flames at any given moment. She does not realize that this may have been a one-off accident, and fears simply riding in a vehicle as a result. No person should have to go through the harrowing experience of pulling their daughter out of a burning car and extinguishing the fire before it can damage even more property or take a life. Importantly, the smoke that engulfed the vehicle’s passenger compartment exacerbated my asthma. For months after the incident, my breathing was strained and I suffered more severe asthma symptoms. Audi/VW made a minimal offer and I have had to engage attorneys to seek compensation for the damages my daughter and I suffered as a result of this incident.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire 1 injuries
Open ODI 11421025 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2020 · ODI 11349103Details +

I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2020 AUDI Q5. IT WAS 6 WEEKS OLD AND HAD ABOUT 2300 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. WHEN PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE THE CAR DIED. I COULD NOT GET IT STARTED NO MATTER WHAT I DID. I COULD NOT EVEN GET THE FLASHERS TO TURN ON (TO THE IRE OF THOSE TRYING TO EXIT THE LOT.) AFTER HAVING IT TOWED (I WAS ON VACATION, NO LESS!) I LEARNED THAT THE ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WAS DEFECTIVE AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. I AM JUST GRATEFUL THIS DID NOT GIVE OUT ON A 55 + MPH HIGHWAY, WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN LIFE THREATENING. ALSO, SINCE THE GEAR SHIFT IS ELECTRIC, THERE IS A WAY TO PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL FOR TOWING PURPOSES. THIS SYSTEM DID NOT WORK AND MY CAR HAD TO BE TOWED BACKWARD WHILE IN DRIVE.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349103 at NHTSA →
SteeringApr 2020 · ODI 11322405Details +

OVERALL PROBLEM: AUDI Q5 2020 APPEARS TO HAVE A COMPUTER MALFUNCTION THAT INSTANTLY DISABLES ALL SYSTEMS. VEHICLE 'SHUT ITSELF OFF' AT A BRIEF STOP AND BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL, ROLLING INTO INTERSECTION. DETAILS: I STOPPED CAR AT RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD STOP SIGN (BRIEF AND COMPLETE STOP, NO WAIT), IMMEDIATELY READY TO PROCEED FORWARD. AUDI'S 'AUTO STOP/START' FEATURE SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, THEN IMMEDIATELY ALL ELECTRONICS SHUT DOWN. THE CAR BASICALLY 'TURNED ITSELF OFF.' VEHICLE THEN BEGAN DRIFTING/COASTING INTO INTERSECTION. CONTROLS WERE UNRESPONSIVE. I REALIZED THE POWER BRAKES AND POWER STEERING WERE DISABLED. I BRAKED VERY HARD, WHICH STOPPED THE CAR. HAD TO KEEP BRAKES PRESSED VERY HARD TO KEEP CAR FROM MOVING. IGNITION BUTTON WAS UNRESPONSIVE. I THEN NOTICED A SMALL MESSAGE ON THE DASHBOARD CONTROLS WHICH READ SOMETHING LIKE 'START/STOP IGNITION SYSTEM DISABLED ' PUT CAR IN P.' (THIS WAS THE ONLY WORKING ELECTRICAL FEATURE I NOTICED, THE EVENT WAS FRIGHTENING AND DISORIENTING, BUT I'M FAIRLY SURE NOTHING ELSE WAS FUNCTIONING). I THEN SHIFTED GEARSHIFT TO PARK, AND WAS ABLE TO START THE CAR AND DRIVE AWAY. I REPORTED PROBLEM TO DEALER. DEALER CLAIMED TO INSPECT VEHICLE, AND SAID THEY WERE UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. DEALER SAID VEHICLE'S COMPUTER HAD NO RECORD/MEMORY OF THE INCIDENT. DEALER ALSO SEEMED RESISTANT TO PROPERLY DOCUMENTING THE INCIDENT ON THEIR PAPERWORK. I REPORTED THE PROBLEM TO AUDI CORPORATE IN AUBURN HILLS MI, EXPLAINING I NO LONGER FELT SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR, AND WOULD NOT DRIVE IT AGAIN. AUDI CLAIMED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN INVESTIGATION, AND THEIR BRIEF REPLY SAID THAT THEY WERE NOT OBLIGATED TO DO ANYTHING UNDER APPLICABLE LEMON LAWS. CAR WAS IN 3RD MONTH OF LEASE, ~150 MILES. PREVIOUSLY I DROVE AN AUDI A4 2017 FOR 3 YEARS SO I WAS/AM VERY FAMILIAR WITH THE WAY AUDIS OPERATE.

Reported
Apr 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11322405 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsFeb 2020 · ODI 11315339Details +

ANY TIME MY APPLE CELL PHONE SE MODEL IS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, THE SEAT BELT UNBUCKLED ALARM INTERMITTENTLY IS ACTIVATED ON THE DASH. I SEE THIS AS A SAFETY ISSUE PARTICULARLY IF A CHILD WAS IN THE BACK SEAT, SINCE IT COULD BE REALIZED AS A FALSE ALARM, BUT ACTUALLY BE A TRUE UNBUCKLING SOMEWHERE IN THE VEHICLE. THIS OCCURS WITH THE VEHICLE IN MOTION, BUT THE PHONE STATIONARY (IE. NOT TRAVELING OVER ROAD BUMPS, POTHOLES OR CORNERING) AND IS UNPREDICTABLE. THIS HAS BEEN OCCURRING SINCE I TOOK POSSESSION NOV 30 LAST YEAR AND WAS NOT ABLE TO BE RECTIFIED BY THE DEALERSHIP OR BY THEM CONTACTING AUDI CENTRAL FOR GUIDANCE. ALL THAT WAS DONE WAS RESETTING THE ELECTRONICS TO FACTORY SETTINGS WHICH DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. ONLY SUGGESTION WAS NOT TO ALLOW THE PHONE TO SIT IN THE SEAT?

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Nov 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11315339 at NHTSA →

Recalls(6)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Electrical SystemAug 2021 · 21V947000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles. A liquid spill in the rear seat, or water ingress from an insufficient body seam underneath the vehicle may allow liquid to penetrate the gateway control module, causing it to shutdown.

Risk: A gateway control module shutdown will suddenly reduce engine power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal an underbody seam as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90S9.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Structure · 19V737000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi SQ5 and 2018-2020 Audi Q5 vehicles. The rear wheel arch cover trim may loosen and detach from the vehicle.

Risk: The detached trim may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the four clips securing the forward part of the rear wheel arch trim, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 66K8.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seats · 20V505000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen ) is recalling certain 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jetta, Jetta GLI and Tiguan and Audi Q5 and SQ5 and 2021 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. Parts of the front seat frame and backrest adjuster may not have been welded properly.

Risk: In the event of a rear-end crash, the backrest adjustment could break, possibly reducing the amount of occupant restraint, thus increasing risk of injury.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seats, and, as necessary, replace the seatback frames, free of charge. The recall began September 11, 2020. Volkswagen owners may contact their customer service at 1-888-241-2289. Audi owners may contact their customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 72L1, 72K8, and 72K9.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Suspension · 21V295000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.

Risk: A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the lock nuts and, if necessary, the associated bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L1.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Tires · 22V034000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.

Risk: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 23V842000Details +

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.

Risk: 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.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2020 Audi Q5 SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Q52.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive252927
Q52.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive222824

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

These are affiliate links. TireKick may earn a fee if you use one.

Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2020 Audi Q5: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2020 Audi Q5?

Owners filed 34 NHTSA complaints about the 2020 Audi Q5. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2020 Audi Q5?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (24% of complaints) and unknown or other (15%).

How many recalls does the 2020 Audi Q5 have?

6 recalls have been issued that affect the 2020 Audi Q5, covering components such as electrical system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2020 Audi Q5 get?

The EPA rates the 2020 Audi Q5 between 24 and 27 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.