Audi Q5 Common Problems and Solutions
Drop In Fuel Economy
Problem:
You are using more fuel than you used to despite travelling the same distances.
Solution:
It's likely that you have dirty fuel lines. There are plenty of online guides that will walk you through the cleaning process, but you may also have to replace your water pump and fuel pump if they have become too worn due to contamination buildup. We always have pumps available for the Q5 in stock, and delivery is fast.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump in Tank
Engine Sounds Different (All diesels)
Problem:
The engine sounds different than it used to. There may be a hot, acrid smell coming from the exhaust, and you'll be using more fuel than usual. The cooling fans may constantly be running.
Solution:
This is going to be a simple case of a clogged DPF (diesel particulate filter). It gets clogged when you tend to take lots of smaller journeys rather than longer ones. You should try taking the Q5 out for a good motorway drive to see if this clears the DPF. If it's too clogged for that, then you need to take it out and use a pressure washer to try and clear it. If that also fails, then you're going to have to order a replacement from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Diesel Particulate Filter
Creaky Suspension
Problem:
You can hear your suspension making a creaking sound. It will be much more noticeable when driving at a low speed.
Solution:
Worn ball joints have been a common problem for the Q5, but this is a fairly simple fix. Order new ball joints from our parts list and easily install them as needed.
Difficulty level
Ball Joint
Very heavy oil consumption
Problem:
The Q5 is one of several different Audi vehicles, which are suffering from extremely heavy oil consumption. This is a particular problem on the 2.0 TFSI engine, and if there is not enough oil, it can have serious consequences on your engine
Solution:
Keep a regular check on your oil levels, topping it up when necessary. It is best to have the oil levels at least half way between the Min and Max marks on the dipstick.
Difficulty level
Creaking noise from panoramic roof
Problem:
A common issue on the Q5 is for the panoramic roof to make a creaking noise, particularly when driving over speed bumps, or poorly surfaced roads.
Solution:
To fix this problem you will need to have the panoramic roof re-lubricated.
Difficulty level
Cigarette lighter not working
Problem:
If you find that the cigarette lighter is not working, then this is usually due to a fault with the appropriate relay. This problem is often caused by disconnecting the battery, or when the battery has been changed.
Solution:
Having the software management (SVM) updated, should fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Boot switch failure
Problem:
If you are having trouble closing the boot on your Q5, then it is known for the boot switch to fail. You may find that the boot is not locking into place, due to the faulty boot switch.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement boot switch should fix the problem. If your vehicle is under warranty, this problem should get fixed free of charge.
Difficulty level
Boot switch failure
Problem:
It is known for the Q5 to have problems with the DRL control unit, which can fail and can cause the DRL not to work.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement DRL control unit, in order to resolve the issue. If your vehicle is still under warranty, this will be covered, otherwise you will need to sort the problem at your own cost.
Difficulty level
DRL (Daytime Running Lights) problems
Problem:
It is known for the Q5 to have problems with the DRL control unit, which can fail and can cause the DRL not to work.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement DRL control unit, in order to resolve the issue. If your vehicle is still under warranty, this will be covered, otherwise you will need to sort the problem at your own cost.
Difficulty level
Shattered Sunroof
Problem:
There's a chance that your panoramic sunroof will shatter in cold weather.
Solution:
If your Q5 was built between January and July 2012, then you need to check the history to make sure that the necessary recall work was carried out. If it hasn't, then you're going to need to head to an Audi dealer who should do the necessary repairs for free.
Difficulty level
Weak Brake Pedal
Problem:
There is a lot of travel on your brake pedal.
Solution:
If your Q5 was built in 2020, it should still be under warranty. That means you can take it to an Audi dealer, who will replace your faulty brake calliper housing for free. If your Q5 isn't covered, then we have the housings with the actuator motors fitted, and this is a far easier job to do yourself than you might assume.
Difficulty level
Brake Caliper
