2014 Audi Q5 Problems

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

My Q5 has a defective subframe. The system is defective because plastic coverings on the subframes of Audi Q5s and SQ5s trap moisture and other elements, causing the subframe to rust, rot, and corrode undetected, which creates a dangerous safety hazard, the existence and extent of which is concealed by the plastic coverings. This results in a myriad of negative consequences for the Class Vehicles and their safe and reliable operation. The defect, which can only be discovered after removing the plastic covering on the vehicles’ steel subframe, leaves an affected Audi vulnerable to “structural instability.”

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

I APPROACH A CITY INTERSECTION AT THE FORT LAUDERDALE AIRPORT AND HAD NO BRAKES, STEERING, OR ACCELERATOR CONTROL. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY UNRESPONSIVE. I FLEW THROUGH THE INSPECTION HITTING THE CURB AND LAUNCHING MY VEHICLE APPROXIMATELY 50' OF DISTANCE OVER A DRAINAGE DITCH SLAMMING TO A COMPLETE STOP ON THE OTHER SIDE. THE SPEED WAS AT LEAST 40-50MPH AT THAT MOMENT, MAYBE FASTER SINCE THE VEHICLE JUST ACCELERATED BUT WOULD NOT BRAKE OR STEER. I HAD MY SEATBELT FASTENED AND AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND THE FRAME LITERALLY SHATTERED ON IMPACT. I SUSTAINED SERIOUS TRAUMA TO MY FACE AND BACK AND ANKLES.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 AUDI Q5. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD AND TOOK LONGER TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUDI RENO TAHOE (LOCATED AT 9190 S VIRGINIA ST, RENO, NV 89511, (775) 335-1335) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT THE CONTACT WAS NOT AWARE OF THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,000.

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.

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.

DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT DOES NOT WORK AND APPEARS BASED ON MY INTERNET SEARCH THIS PROBLEM IS PERVASIVE.

2014 AUDI Q5, HEADLIGHT LENSES CRAZING/FROSTING FROM THE INSIDE. THIS IS NOT WATER MOISTURE, THIS IS A DEFECT IN THE LENS MATERIAL. THE CRAZING/FROSTING OF THE LENS DECREASES LIGHT OUTPUT AND SCATTERS THE LIGHT TO WHERE IT AFFECTS ONCOMING DRIVERS.

THE WIPER PULLS BACK WATER TO THE WINDSCREEN THAT IMPACTS VISIBILITY CAUSING A SAFETY HAZARD. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND VIDES WERE SHOWN. BRAND NEW WIPER BLADES WERE INSTALLED AT THE COST OF $80. THE PROBLEM CONTINUES. DEALER STATES THAT IT IS BY DESIGN. HAVE DRIVEN SEVERAL Q5'S AND SUCH A SAFETY HAZARD IS DEFINITELY NOT BY DESIGN. VIDEOS ARE POSTED ON THE AUDI FACEBOOK PAGE. NO RESPONSE OR ATTEMPT TO FIX THE ISSUE.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTO START/ STOP FUNCTION. WHILE DRIVING FROM A COMPLETE STOP THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. THE AUTO/STOP FAILED TO OPERATE PROPERLY. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND RESUMED IN OPERATION. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHO WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID SENSOR WAS FAULTY. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.

AUDI DEALERSHIP KEEP SAYING THERE IS NO OPEN TIME FOR APPOINTMENT ON MONDAYS; THE ONLY DAY I HAVE OFF AT WORK. I CAN ONLY TAKE THE VEHICLE ON A MONDAY.

2014 AUDI Q5. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE ARM REST ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ARMREST DOES NOT LOCK IN POSITION AND SLIDES OVER THE CUP HOLDER WHEN MOVED TO THE FORWARD POSITION. THE CONSUMER STATED IF THERE IS A CONTAINER OF HOT LIQUID IN THE CUP HOLDER AND SOMEONE LEANS ON THE ARMREST, IT EASILY SLIDES FORWARD AND PUSHED INTO THE CONTAINER WHICH COULD CAUSE THE HOT LIQUID IN ALL DIRECTIONS. *JB

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.

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.