88 of the
1,886 complaints filed about the Audi Q5
are about the transmission —
100% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2021.
88
Complaints
100%
Share of all complaints
4
Crashes
1
Fires
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints by model year
On September 2, 2026, I purchased a used 2020 Audi Q5 with disclosed Lemon Law Buyback title branding. Approximately two hours after taking delivery, the vehicle began exhibiting a pronounced vibration/judder in the drivetrain when turning the steering wheel at low speed, approximately 1-5 mph. Initially occurring only at full steering lock, the symptom has progressively worsened and now occurs during slighter turns as well, with increasing frequency. The vehicle operates normally in a straight line. This is consistent with Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2059057 (Quattro Ultra AWD vibration/binding in tight turns), applicable to 2018-2020 Audi Q5 vehicles. Given this vehicle's disclosed prior manufacturer buyback history, this may represent a recurring, unresolved drivetrain defect.
NHTSA complaint #11762207 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
VIN number: [XXX]. Audi Q5 Prestige 2021 Mileage 48,540 I have contacted Audi Corporate regarding a catastrophic Transmission Failure while driving. The dealership investigation discovered that bolts had loosened and the fluid was not getting to the transmission and it stopped dead while I was driving. I was on surface streets going to pick up my baby granddaughter from daycare. I heard what sounded like a "slip" in the gears, a yellow notification appeared stating that the car is safe to drive. A few minutes later it happened again and the same warning appeared. I continued to the daycare and in the driveway the car stopped dead with a Red warning that it is a transmission malfunction. I luckily was not in a busy intersection or the freeway as that would have been catastrophic for my life and the life of my young granddaughter. I have contacted Audi via telephone at [XXX]. They took my statement and gave me a case number: XXX. I have worked with my Audi dealership and they are giving a "goodwill" discount that requires me to pay $800 for the defective bolt replacement. I purchased the vehicle as a certified pre-owned from the Audi dealership on [XXX]. I purchased an extended warranty they refused to cover the repair as it was a manufacturing issue. I have taken the vehicle in for all maintenance. This transmission failure is nothing that I did and not the result of neglect. This failure of the bolts is a manufacturing error. The bolts are supposed to stay bolted. I want Audi to pay in full for the repair, to include replacement of the entire transmission, in addition to replacing the defective volts. I also want a letter stating that this is a permanent fix and will not happen again. I trusted the Audi name and reputation to build a safe vehicle. The abrupt stop of the transmission could have been the death of me and my young granddaughter had it happened on the freeway or a busy intersection. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11760469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving the vehicle after a bump in a pot-hole there was loud clunking noise from the engine compartment and car stopped suddenly. There was a risk of getting hit by the car from behind. Car was towed to Audi Service Center and found to have a Connecting Rod Bearing Failure damaging the whole engine. The act is still at the repair shop and should be available for inspection. It was inspected by the authorized Audi Service center. Insurance advisor will be taking look at it also. There was no warning, messages, or any other symptoms of any problem prior to the incident.
NHTSA complaint #11760016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On 8/3/26, my 2021 Audi Q5 began throwing numerous different malfunction/error alerts and the engine turned off while driving after a bottle of water had partially spilled onto our backseat behind the drivers side. The vehicle was towed to a nearby mechanic who determined that liquid damaged the gateway control module located under the backseat of the vehicle, as the gateway control module is placed in a "protective cover" (an unsealed plastic bag) and that bag visibly had liquid inside of it. We had immediately contacted Audi upon learning of this issue and decided not to move forward with any repairs, but to instead pay out of pocket to have it towed 70 miles to Audi/where we originally purchased the vehicle. This "protective cover" the control module was placed inside was completed as a recall service repair on our vehicle in April of 2022 due to a NHTSA recall announced in December 2021 regarding safety issues in these control modules failing from liquid spills on the backseat. We contacted Audi, explained that liquid had spilled in our backseat and entered the "protective cover" and damaged the control module. They agreed to inspect our vehicle to determine if the "protective cover" had been insufficiently installed. We paid out of pocket to have it towed to the dealership where it took them 6 days to determine the gateway control module is damaged (we had already explained this to them). Although liquid was found in the "protective cover" of this gateway control module, the dealership claims it was installed sufficiently. Upon looking into this matter further, there are numerous complaints of this exact issue (water entering and damaging the gateway control module from a liquid spill on the backseat, even with the "protective cover") on the NHTSA website, as well as a previous class action lawsuit settled out of court in regards to this EXACT issue. THE PRIOR RECALL REPAIR DOES NOT FIX THE SAFETY HAZARD AS STATED IN THE OFFICIAL NHTSA RECALL REPORT.
NHTSA complaint #11758347 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On July 23, 2026, my 2023 Audi Q5 suddenly lost power while I was driving on the highway, with no prior symptoms before the incident. The vehicle began stuttering, entered limp mode, displayed multiple drive-system malfunction warnings, and developed a loud knocking sound from the engine area. The loss of power created a serious safety risk because the vehicle could no longer accelerate or operate normally in traffic. I pulled over as soon as it was safe, shut the vehicle off, and had it towed. The vehicle had approximately 74,945 miles at the time of the incident. An independent auto repair shop performed a diagnostic inspection and documented fault codes P030300 for a cylinder 3 misfire, P130A00 indicating cylinder 3 fuel injection had been disabled to protect the catalytic converter, and P013B00 involving the rear oxygen sensor. The technician reported severe connecting-rod knock from inside the engine block and found a large amount of metallic debris in the engine oil. The shop concluded that the engine had suffered catastrophic internal failure and required replacement. The symptoms and findings closely resemble the connecting-rod failure condition described in Audi recall 13i5 / NHTSA recall 22V753, although Audi advised that my VIN is not currently included. The vehicle is now at an authorized Audi dealership for further diagnosis. I am reporting this because the sudden loss of power and internal engine failure occurred while the vehicle was being driven and could have resulted in a crash. I request that NHTSA review whether my vehicle experienced the same or a substantially similar connecting-rod failure as the 2023 vehicles covered by recall 22V753, despite my VIN not currently being included.
NHTSA complaint #11753333 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
1) Rear subframe supports differential, axels, suspension, brakes, wheels and tires 2) If rear suspension fails , above noted assemblies will fall out of the car 3) Yes, dealer and independent garage have inspected and condemned 4) Manufacturer is aware of the problem, 5) No warnings or messages appeared, 6/29/26 at garage for oil change, garage was installing a subframe for another q5 so he was familiar with the issue
NHTSA complaint #11747832 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle exhibits multiple, unresolved safety-critical defects across software and mechanical systems that create an unpredictable and dangerous driving environment. Despite multiple repair attempts, the manufacturer has failed to certify the vehicle as safe for operation. 1. Critical ADAS Failures (Forward Collision/Lane Keeping): Automatic Emergency Braking (Pre-Sense): The vehicle suffers from unprompted alerts and phantom braking incidents, creating an immediate risk of rear-end collisions. Lane Keeping Assistance: The system has experienced unexpected steering pull, which could lead to an unprompted lane departure. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): The system consistently fails to detect lead vehicles in 40% to 50% of instances. The most recent failure was documented via timestamped screenshot on May 12, 2026, around 4:07 PM PT. This defect is reproducible and renders the automated safety suite unreliable. 2. Powertrain & Mechanical Defects: Pneumatic Air Leaks: The vehicle exhibits 100% pneumatic air leaks during acceleration. The service center has dismissively characterized a total pneumatic system failure as "normal," which I find technically unacceptable and a sign of neglected mechanical integrity. 3. Electrical & Starting System: Recurring Ignition Failures: The vehicle has experienced multiple failures to start, most recently leaving my child and me stranded for 10 minutes. Safety & Use Impairment: These intermittent failures compromise the vehicle's utility and the safety of my family. Incident History: The first time this occurred, I called Audi Roadside Assistance, but the engine started approximately 30 minutes later; as a result, I do not call roadside assistance now when it happens and instead attempt to restart it repeatedly. Current Status: I am forced to drive the car in a constant dilemma, knowing it might fail at any time and leave me stranded.
NHTSA complaint #11737704 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Audi Q5 has 23,300 city-driven odometer miles. The vehicle has been serviced and maintained per the Audi Service Manual, based on months in service, not accumulated mileage. The vehicle has been garaged both at home and at work. The vehicle has never been driven off-road. When driving, an “All-wheel Drive: malfunction! You may continue driving. Please contact Service” warning message sounded and appeared on the instrument panel. The malfunction was diagnosed by Audi Honolulu and another Audi repair shop as a Shift Fork Unit issue and/or Quattro differential failure, which needs to be replaced. Audi has has a Technical Service Bulletin for a similar problem for the Q5. Audi Honolulu and Audi America refuses to provide a goodwill repair citing the age of the Q5. While the vehicle is 7 years old, a Shift Fork or Quattro Differential should not fail at 23,300 miles, regardless of age. I have been told by both repair facilities that the Shift Fork Unit or Quattro Differential could suddenly fully fail and seize causing a sudden loss of forward movement. I am afraid that if this happens at freeway speeds coming to a sudden stop could cause serious injury and if a vehicle behind mine slammed into me at freeway speeds a catastrophic or deadly accident could occur, especially at night or in inclement weather conditions.
NHTSA complaint #11731739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
Vehicle: 2022 Audi Q5 VIN: [XXX] Current Mileage: 60,221 DESCRIPTION OF PROBLEM: I am filing this complaint regarding a recurring all-wheel-drive (AWD) system defect on my 2022 Audi Q5 that has persisted despite a prior repair performed under the factory warranty. SYMPTOMS: I have been experiencing the following symptoms primarily during tight turns, U-turns, and low-speed maneuvering such as in parking lots: - Jerking and lurching of the vehicle during turns - Grinding and clunking noises from the drivetrain during turns - Vibrations felt through the vehicle during turns - Symptoms occur at both low speeds and highway speeds REPAIR HISTORY: Approximately 1.5 years ago, while my vehicle was still under the Audi factory warranty, I brought my vehicle to an authorized Audi dealership for the exact same symptoms. The dealer performed an AWD fluid drain and refill per Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #2059057, which specifically addresses AWD clutch noise and vibration during turns on 2021-2023 Audi Q5 models. The dealer indicated the issue was resolved. RECURRENCE: The identical symptoms have since returned. My vehicle is now out of its factory warranty period. The dealer has not provided a permanent fix despite following the manufacturer's own TSB procedure. The repair performed under warranty has clearly failed to resolve the underlying defect. SAFETY CONCERN: The jerking and loss of smooth drivetrain control during turns, particularly at low speeds in parking lots and during U-turns, represents a safety hazard as it affects the driver's ability to maintain predictable vehicle control. This issue is especially dangerous in situations requiring precise maneuvering such as parking, merging, and navigating tight spaces. ADDITIONAL NOTES: - Audi TSB #2059057 acknowledges this as a known defect affecting 2021-2023 Q5 models - The same repair has failed to provide a lasting fix - Multiple owners of 2021-2023 Audi Q5 vehicles have reported identical INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
NHTSA complaint #11727667 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Check engine light is on almost constantly on my car. It might turn off and stay that way for a couple of days, but always comes on again. Dealership had made two attempts to "fix" it by just clearing the faults. However, according to the service department the reason why check engine light came on was "faults for loss of communication to powertrain electronics and brake electronics" which i think is a real safety concern. After my last trip to the dealership the check engine light came on after just two days of normal driving. There was also a situation when i was unable to shift to park with the risk of rolling along with some other error messages on the dash. I was unable to lock the vehicle because of that and of course there was a risk of it rolling.
NHTSA complaint #11725083 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
After the automatic start/stop system engages, the engine stalls and completely shuts off shortly after the vehicle begins moving again. This occurs after the vehicle restarts and travels only a few feet. When the stall happens, the vehicle loses power and the engine stops functioning while the car is in traffic. This has occurred two separate times: once on a busy highway and once while entering a roundabout. Both incidents created a dangerous situation where the vehicle could not maintain power in active traffic and could have resulted in a crash. A yellow emissions warning light also appeared on the dashboard. The dealer indicated that an intermittent oil pressure sensor code was present but no parts were replaced and no corrective action was taken. The dealer reset the system and stated they could not reproduce the problem. The vehicle is now being returned to me without repair despite the safety risk. An engine stall immediately after the start/stop system restarts the vehicle creates a serious hazard because the vehicle can lose power in the middle of traffic. I believe this issue may be related to the automatic start/stop system or an oil pressure sensor fault affecting engine operation.
NHTSA complaint #11723732 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Summary: The turbocharger on my 2019 Audi Q5 failed prematurely. The initial check engine light and loss of performance began at approximately 48,000 miles, which is within Audi’s 4-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. The condition progressively worsened and the vehicle became difficult to drive safely in traffic due to reduced power and hesitation during acceleration. The turbocharger ultimately required complete replacement at 50,334 miles at a cost of $ 2511.20 This appears to be a premature failure of a major engine component. A sudden loss of power while merging or crossing intersections creates a safety concern. The vehicle has been properly maintained, is completely stock, and has never been modified. No warning was provided prior to the check engine light and rapid performance degradation. I am submitting this complaint because similar turbocharger wastegate failures have been documented in other Volkswagen/Audi vehicles using related engines, and a failure at this mileage should not occur in a properly maintained vehicle. Safety Risk: Reduced engine power and hesitation during acceleration creates a hazardous condition when merging into traffic or crossing intersections. Repair: Turbocharger replacement Repair cost: $ 2511.20 Mileage at repair: 50,334
NHTSA complaint #11719734 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Yellow warning light..drive system malfunction. Red warning light..low oil pressure at idle. Says stop engine..after engine restart lights go off and is fine.. for a little bit.
NHTSA complaint #11719269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Control module located under rear seat became slightly wet from spilled liquid, and failed. Engine and electrical failure as a result of control module failure. Audi refuses to cover damages as warranty period is over. Vehicle design is defective.
NHTSA complaint #11715668 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle: 2022 Audi Q5 (VIN [XXX] ) Mileage at incident: ~20,000 Component: Powertrain – Engine / Turbocharger – Sudden Loss of Power NARRATIVE: On or about [XXX], my 2022 Audi Q5 experienced a sudden loss of engine power while driving approximately 60 mph. The vehicle began vibrating/shaking severely, jerking on acceleration, and displayed warnings including “Drive system: Please switch engine off” along with a check engine light. The vehicle entered reduced power/limp mode, creating a hazardous situation in traffic at highway speeds. The vehicle was taken to an authorized Audi dealer in Wayzata BLVD Minneapolis who diagnosed catastrophic internal engine failure and documented metallic debris in the engine oil. Audi replaced the engine with a new long block (warranty repair). However, despite confirmed metal contamination in the oil system, Audi directed the dealer to flush and reuse the turbocharger rather than replace it. The turbocharger is supplied by engine oil and may retain embedded metal in its bearing assembly, creating an ongoing risk of turbo bearing seizure/failure and another sudden loss of power at highway speed. I am reporting this because (1) the vehicle already experienced sudden power loss at highway speed, and (2) the repair decision to reuse a contamination-exposed turbocharger may create continued risk of sudden loss of power and unsafe operation. Dealer repair: Engine replaced; turbocharger reused after “flush.” Current safety status: I do not feel the vehicle is safe for highway driving due to risk of turbo failure and sudden power loss. Requested action: Please log and review similar complaints for potential investigation related to sudden loss of power and contamination-exposed turbo reuse in warranty repairs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11706954 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? EPC light is on, car stalled on highway towed in Audi Dealership Jan/2023, On August 18, 2025 The vehicle experience catastrophic engine failure, electrical issues, coolant system defects,and currently inoperable and safety risk. 2.How was your safety or safety of others put at risk? vehicle stalled on street potentially public safety risk. 3.Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, Audi dealership service center recommendation buy $22,000 for brand new engine . 4.Has the vehicle or component been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Inspected by Audi Dealership Service Center, and State Farm claims representative. 5.Were there any warning lamps, message or other systems of the problem prior to the failure, and when they first appear? When did first appeared a problem EPC light goes off and on January 17, 2023, loss of engine power, oil/coolant leaks, and etc.
NHTSA complaint #11705718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving my 2021 Audi Q5, the vehicle experienced a sudden transmission disengagement without warning. The vehicle behaved as if it had shifted into neutral while in motion. When this occurred, pressing the accelerator produced no response — the engine would not rev and the vehicle would not accelerate. This created a serious safety risk as it occurred during normal driving conditions and could have resulted in a collision. After stopping the vehicle and shifting into Park and then back into Drive, the transmission temporarily re-engaged. The issue reoccurred multiple times. Prior to one of the failures, the vehicle hesitated and bucked when starting from a stop. A warning message later appeared stating: “Transmission malfunction. You may continue to drive but will be unable to reverse.” The vehicle was taken to an authorized Audi dealership. Audi of America approved replacement of the transmission control module (mechatronic unit); however, this repair did not resolve the problem. After repeated failed adaptations and diagnostics, the dealer confirmed that the entire transmission requires replacement, citing internal gear set failure. The dealer documented that: Basic transmission settings and adaptations were attempted at least five times The failure consistently occurs at the same gear position A similar Audi Q5 case required full transmission replacement Audi Technical Assistance Center instructed the dealer to replace the transmission Despite this, Audi of America has refused further assistance due to the vehicle being slightly outside the standard warranty period, even though the mileage is extremely low and the failure is safety-related. This appears to be a defect involving the Audi S-tronic transmission, as similar complaints have been reported by other owners. The sudden loss of propulsion while driving presents a clear safety hazard. Safety Impact Sudden loss of acceleration while driving No throttle response during failure Occurred wit
NHTSA complaint #11704035 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11699189 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.