Top Audi Q5 fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Audi Q5 faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Audi Q5
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

The Audi Q5, while practical and comfortable, has common faults including water pump failure, DPF issues, electrical problems, suspension issues, and excessive oil consumption. Owners should be aware of these issues and their potential repair costs, which can range from £100 to over £1,000.

Water Pump Failure

Water pump failure is a frequent issue in Audi Q5 models from 2010 to 2017. Symptoms include coolant leaks and overheating. This is a DIY job if you have some mechanical experience. The water pump costs around £100-£150. Garage labour can add £150-£250 for the job. If not replaced, it can lead to engine damage.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues

DPF issues commonly affect diesel engines from 2012 onwards. A blocked DPF can trigger warning lights and reduce performance. A temporary fix is to perform a forced regeneration, costing about £200-£300. Permanent solutions may involve replacing the DPF, which can be £500-£1,000 at a garage.

Electrical Problems

Electrical faults are known to affect various components, especially in models from 2015 to 2018. Common issues include malfunctioning sensors and failing infotainment systems. Diagnosing these problems can be complex and often requires a garage. Costs can vary widely, but expect to pay £100-£300 for parts and labour.

Suspension Issues

Suspension issues, particularly with the front control arms, are noted in Q5s from 2009 to 2017. Symptoms include a rough ride and uneven tyre wear. If you’re handy, you can replace control arms yourself for about £150-£250 in parts. Garage labour can add another £200-£300.

Oil Consumption

Excessive oil consumption is a concern for some Q5 models, particularly those with the 2.0 TFSI engine from 2008 to 2012. Owners may notice frequent oil top-ups. This is often a sign of worn piston rings or valve seals. Fixing this can be expensive, often requiring a garage and costing upwards of £1,000.

Audi Q5 MOT record

From 116,966 recorded MOT tests, 13.8% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20234202.6%25,222 mi
20229,4056.2%27,625 mi
202111,2388.0%36,322 mi
20208,6798.0%44,304 mi
201911,8369.0%51,833 mi
201812,94511.5%59,179 mi
20179,88115.5%68,389 mi
201611,08614.7%79,085 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn30.6%
  2. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements30.3%
  3. A tyre seriously damaged15.4%
  4. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm13.7%
  5. A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc10.0%

Figures cover every Audi Q5 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Audi Q5 official figures

Median across 12 variants on sale, diesel electric, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
40.4 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
164.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults with the Audi Q5?

Common faults include water pump failure, DPF issues, and electrical problems.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Many issues can be fixed DIY, but some may require professional help.

How much does it cost to fix a water pump on an Audi Q5?

Parts cost around £100-£150, with garage labour adding £150-£250.

What should I do if my DPF light comes on?

Consider a forced regeneration or replacement, which can cost £200-£1,000.

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Sources