2014 Audi Q5 problems

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.”

NHTSA complaint #11754215 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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.

NHTSA complaint #11735869 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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)

NHTSA complaint #11730892 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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.

NHTSA complaint #11730241 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #11730241 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

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.

NHTSA complaint #11729264 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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.

NHTSA complaint #11729264 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #11729264 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #11727209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #11726072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STRUCTURE:BODY

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)

NHTSA complaint #11705300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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.

NHTSA complaint #11685613 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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

NHTSA complaint #11684104 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STEERING

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.

NHTSA complaint #11678953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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.

NHTSA complaint #11678953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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.

NHTSA complaint #11678953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #11678346 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #11672270 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11670746 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11670746 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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,

NHTSA complaint #11661768 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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.

NHTSA complaint #11658523 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #11656761 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

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.

NHTSA complaint #11653169 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.