Owners have filed 18 complaints
about the 2021 Audi SQ5 with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 8 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 52
Against the median year of the Audi SQ5. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 29
5.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
80% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2021 Audi SQ5
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Electrical System
422.2%
Median failure at 2,400 miles
Engine & Cooling
422.2%
Median failure at 20,700 miles
Transmission & Drivetrain
316.7%
Driver Assist & Collision Avoidance
211.1%
Median failure at 10,715 miles
Other & Unspecified
15.6%
Seat Belts
15.6%
Lights
15.6%
Steering
15.6%
Median failure at 2,400 miles
Airbags
15.6%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
360.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
120.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
120.0%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 2021peak 4Jun 2026
Recalls on the 2021 Audi SQ5
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202256519,006 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to appear on the display. Canadian regulations require the rearview image to display when the transmission is shifted into reverse gear. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that does not display could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Volkswagen will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the infotainment software.
Recall 20220224,361 units in Canada
Suspension
Issue: On certain vehicles, the rear wheel alignment was not checked during recall 42L1 (Transport Canada Recall 2021-249). As a result, the steering could pull to one side or another and the tires could wear unevenly. If you continue to drive the vehicle in this condition, there may be reduced traction. Eventually, a tire could fail and lose air pressure. Safety Risk: A tire failure could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Audi will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect and adjust the rear wheel alignment, as necessary. Additionally, the dealer will inspect the rear tires for premature and uneven wear due to this issue, and replace them if necessary.
Recall 202174048,146 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: On certain vehicles, if you spill liquid on the rear seat, or drive through heavy rain or deep water, the gateway control module could be damaged. If this happens, the vehicle may enter emergency mode and suddenly lose power to the wheels. Note: The power steering and braking systems will continue to work. You may also see warning messages on the instrument panel when this happens. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of power to the wheels may increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Audi will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal an underbody seam, as necessary.
Recall 20214867,198 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Issue: On certain vehicles, the passenger seat belt assemblies may contain defective automatic locking retractors (ALR). As a result, the seat belts may not properly lock to secure a child seat. Safety Risk: A seat belt that is used to secure a child restraint but is not properly locked could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Audi will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect the seat belts. They will be replaced, if necessary.
Recall 20212495,396 units in Canada
Suspension
Issue: On certain vehicles, the lock nuts for the rear trailing arm bolts may be defective. If a nut breaks, there could be sudden changes in rear wheel alignment. This can cause a loss of vehicle stability. Safety Risk: Reduced vehicle stability could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Audi will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the rear trailing arm lock nuts. If necessary, the associated bolt(s) will be replaced as well.
The pre-sense and/or automatic emergency braking function comes on unnecessarily at least once a week. It will occur when I am driving on the highway and the car thinks there is something in front of me and then the seatbelt will tighten out of nowhere. This is a significant safety risk as it is terrifying and is not being triggered for any legitimate reason. It is so abrupt when it happens that it makes me jump while driving. The worst thing that has happened is yesterday I was going down a ramp toward a parking garage. Out of no where for no legitimate reason while on the beginning of the decline of the ramp, the car automatically applied the e-brake very violently. I was whiplashed forward, felt my neck crack, and then hit my head on the visor quite hard. Today, I have a bruise on my forehead and am not sure whether I had a mild concussion from the incident. It was more violent than when I have been rear-ended in the past. There were no walls, cars, people, ceiling, or objects anywhere near the car to cause this to happen. The pre-sense is a defect and a significant safety risk that can and has caused injury to me.
NHTSA complaint #11422338 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Basalt, CO
POWER TRAIN
While driving at normal operational speeds, the vehicle suffered a sudden, un-commanded, and catastrophic loss of motive power while navigating a live traffic intersection. The transmission completely disengaged all gears without warning, rendering the vehicle entirely stationary and immobilized in the path of oncoming traffic. This failure created an immediate, severe safety hazard, exposing the occupants to a high risk of a side-impact or rear-end collision due to the inability to clear the intersection under the vehicle's own power. The vehicle had to be flatbedded to an authorized dealer (Audi - Glenwood Springs). The professional diagnostic evaluation confirmed an internal failure of the transmission assembly and Transmission Control Module (TCM) / Mechatronic unit, requiring a total replacement of the powertrain assembly. The failure occurred at 59,000 miles.
NHTSA complaint #11745096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Basalt, CO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving at normal operational speeds, the vehicle suffered a sudden, un-commanded, and catastrophic loss of motive power while navigating a live traffic intersection. The transmission completely disengaged all gears without warning, rendering the vehicle entirely stationary and immobilized in the path of oncoming traffic. This failure created an immediate, severe safety hazard, exposing the occupants to a high risk of a side-impact or rear-end collision due to the inability to clear the intersection under the vehicle's own power. The vehicle had to be flatbedded to an authorized dealer (Audi - Glenwood Springs). The professional diagnostic evaluation confirmed an internal failure of the transmission assembly and Transmission Control Module (TCM) / Mechatronic unit, requiring a total replacement of the powertrain assembly. The failure occurred at 59,000 miles.
NHTSA complaint #11745096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Basalt, CO
ENGINE
While driving at normal operational speeds, the vehicle suffered a sudden, un-commanded, and catastrophic loss of motive power while navigating a live traffic intersection. The transmission completely disengaged all gears without warning, rendering the vehicle entirely stationary and immobilized in the path of oncoming traffic. This failure created an immediate, severe safety hazard, exposing the occupants to a high risk of a side-impact or rear-end collision due to the inability to clear the intersection under the vehicle's own power. The vehicle had to be flatbedded to an authorized dealer (Audi - Glenwood Springs). The professional diagnostic evaluation confirmed an internal failure of the transmission assembly and Transmission Control Module (TCM) / Mechatronic unit, requiring a total replacement of the powertrain assembly. The failure occurred at 59,000 miles.
NHTSA complaint #11745096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bakersfield, CA
POWER TRAIN
My car has a known issue with a piston skirt defect that can cause engine failure. Audi of America acknowledged this issue with the EA839 and only warranted an 80k mile warranty. I am outside of that warranty and in risk of catastrophic engine failure that could lead to safety issues on the road. I am worried about my safety in driving this vehicle. Audi of America refuse to cover my car as it is outside of the extended warranty. There are numerous people that have the same issue as several models with the same EA839 engine and are prone to this failure.
NHTSA complaint #11735402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 39,000 milesBradenton, FL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Audi SQ5. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken for routine service at the dealer, and the contact was informed that the coolant pump was starting to fail. The contact was advised that the mechanic found coolant running through the vac lines. The contact was informed that continuing to drive the vehicle with a failing coolant pump could cause engine damage. The contact had the coolant pump replaced. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V229000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, neither the VIN nor the model year was included. The failure mileage was approximately 39,000.
NHTSA complaint #11687517 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highlands Ranch, CO
POWER TRAIN
Component/System: Engine and Cooling — Water Pump / Coolant System Vehicle: 2021 Audi SQ5 Engine Code: CWGD Mileage at Failure: 71,000 Date of Incident: 8/6/2025 Audi Denver I’m reporting a known defect affecting my 2021 Audi SQ5 with engine code CWGD. The engine experienced an internal coolant leak from the water pump housing, which is a known issue previously acknowledged by Audi in TSB #19Q5 2022 01, covering earlier 3.0T engines (DEWA/DEWC). Although my engine (CWGD) is not listed in the bulletin, the failure is identical in nature: the plastic thermostat/water pump housing fails internally, leading to coolant loss and potential engine overheating. This issue is widespread among Audi 3.0T engines, including CWGD, and poses a risk of engine failure and overheating. Audi has extended the warranty for earlier engine variants but refuses to cover mine, even though the defect and consequences are the same. This inconsistent coverage leaves owners like me exposed to high repair costs for a clearly known design flaw. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether Audi’s CWGD engines should also fall under the scope of the extended warranty or safety defect coverage already applied to DEWA/DEWC engine variants. Audi’s selective VIN or engine code exclusions appear arbitrary and may allow known safety-related failures to go unaddressed. Documentation available: dealer inspection report confirming internal water pump leak, warranty denial letter, and TSB copy.
NHTSA complaint #11678890 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highlands Ranch, CO
ENGINE
Component/System: Engine and Cooling — Water Pump / Coolant System Vehicle: 2021 Audi SQ5 Engine Code: CWGD Mileage at Failure: 71,000 Date of Incident: 8/6/2025 Audi Denver I’m reporting a known defect affecting my 2021 Audi SQ5 with engine code CWGD. The engine experienced an internal coolant leak from the water pump housing, which is a known issue previously acknowledged by Audi in TSB #19Q5 2022 01, covering earlier 3.0T engines (DEWA/DEWC). Although my engine (CWGD) is not listed in the bulletin, the failure is identical in nature: the plastic thermostat/water pump housing fails internally, leading to coolant loss and potential engine overheating. This issue is widespread among Audi 3.0T engines, including CWGD, and poses a risk of engine failure and overheating. Audi has extended the warranty for earlier engine variants but refuses to cover mine, even though the defect and consequences are the same. This inconsistent coverage leaves owners like me exposed to high repair costs for a clearly known design flaw. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether Audi’s CWGD engines should also fall under the scope of the extended warranty or safety defect coverage already applied to DEWA/DEWC engine variants. Audi’s selective VIN or engine code exclusions appear arbitrary and may allow known safety-related failures to go unaddressed. Documentation available: dealer inspection report confirming internal water pump leak, warranty denial letter, and TSB copy.
NHTSA complaint #11678890 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Osgoode, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MMI not connecting Control module for emergency call module
NHTSA complaint #11677713 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Osgoode, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MMI not connecting Control module for emergency call module
NHTSA complaint #11677713 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Southlake, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Comfort Module J393 failed that is tied to all electronics warnings in car. brake warnings, light warning, security warnings, etc. Car was unable to be started as a result. If these electronics failed during driving, its very dangerous and could force crashing of vehicle. According to Dealership, failed module was submerged (ie water flooeded). This is a self contained electronics module that is not exposed to elements. The car was parked in driveway. it rained lightly over the weekend. Then this occurred. the damage and replacement cost was over $10K in damage. Audi dealership stated replacing rear water drain may be kinked or damaged causing water to leak where module located. Its not normal for self contained electronics modules to have this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11657723 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,715 milesSanta Monica, CA
BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2021 Audi SQ5. The contact stated that while the gear shifter was shifted into reverse, the rear-view camera displayed a blank screen. As a result, the contact stated that he bumped into another vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the Back Over Prevention system failed, and the infotainment unit software needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact then stated that he then received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V742000 (Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall was previously repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 10,715.
NHTSA complaint #11497391 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Irvine, CA
SEAT BELTS
I’ve had a Safety System Malfunction light on for sometime now. Dealership replaced a seat belt part, air bag control module, and still the light won’t go away. The car is currently with the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11428617 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Irvine, CA
AIR BAGS
I’ve had a Safety System Malfunction light on for sometime now. Dealership replaced a seat belt part, air bag control module, and still the light won’t go away. The car is currently with the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11428617 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Glenview, IL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The Lighting system is SUB-PAR because You NHTSA has been dragging your feet on approving the ADB Matrix Headlights and allowing AUDI to update the software and enable the system. This is a Safety issue as we cannot realize the full capability of visibility when driving on the highway! NHTSA, please get your ACT together and approve the ADB Headlights!
NHTSA complaint #11427906 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The pre-sense and/or automatic emergency braking function comes on unnecessarily at least once a week. It will occur when I am driving on the highway and the car thinks there is something in front of me and then the seatbelt will tighten out of nowhere. This is a significant safety risk as it is terrifying and is not being triggered for any legitimate reason. It is so abrupt when it happens that it makes me jump while driving. The worst thing that has happened is yesterday I was going down a ramp toward a parking garage. Out of no where for no legitimate reason while on the beginning of the decline of the ramp, the car automatically applied the e-brake very violently. I was whiplashed forward, felt my neck crack, and then hit my head on the visor quite hard. Today, I have a bruise on my forehead and am not sure whether I had a mild concussion from the incident. It was more violent than when I have been rear-ended in the past. There were no walls, cars, people, ceiling, or objects anywhere near the car to cause this to happen. The pre-sense is a defect and a significant safety risk that can and has caused injury to me.
NHTSA complaint #11422338 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 2,400 milesHolmdel, NJ
STEERING
WHILE DRIVING KID SPILLED WATER ON REAR SEAT, WITHIN 5 MIN ALL SENSORS STARTED BEEPING, DISPLAY STARTED TURNING OFF AND ON, STEERING WHEEL VERY HARD TO MANEUVER, WINDOWS OPENING AND CLOSING SPONTANEOUSLY, CAR WOULDN'T GO INTO PARK MODE, ENGINE WOULDN'T TURN OFF (FINALLY DID AFTER PRESSING AND HOLDING IGNITION MULTIPLE TIMES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS). AUDI DEALER STATES MODULE UNDERNEATH THE REAR SEAT IS CORRODED. IT'S A BRAND NEW CAR (LEASED < 3 MONTHS AGO). TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT AGAIN AS IT APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE AND IS HAZARDOUS FOR MY FAMILY.
NHTSA complaint #11408669 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 2,400 milesHolmdel, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WHILE DRIVING KID SPILLED WATER ON REAR SEAT, WITHIN 5 MIN ALL SENSORS STARTED BEEPING, DISPLAY STARTED TURNING OFF AND ON, STEERING WHEEL VERY HARD TO MANEUVER, WINDOWS OPENING AND CLOSING SPONTANEOUSLY, CAR WOULDN'T GO INTO PARK MODE, ENGINE WOULDN'T TURN OFF (FINALLY DID AFTER PRESSING AND HOLDING IGNITION MULTIPLE TIMES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS). AUDI DEALER STATES MODULE UNDERNEATH THE REAR SEAT IS CORRODED. IT'S A BRAND NEW CAR (LEASED < 3 MONTHS AGO). TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT AGAIN AS IT APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE AND IS HAZARDOUS FOR MY FAMILY.
NHTSA complaint #11408669 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 2,400 milesHolmdel, NJ
ENGINE
WHILE DRIVING KID SPILLED WATER ON REAR SEAT, WITHIN 5 MIN ALL SENSORS STARTED BEEPING, DISPLAY STARTED TURNING OFF AND ON, STEERING WHEEL VERY HARD TO MANEUVER, WINDOWS OPENING AND CLOSING SPONTANEOUSLY, CAR WOULDN'T GO INTO PARK MODE, ENGINE WOULDN'T TURN OFF (FINALLY DID AFTER PRESSING AND HOLDING IGNITION MULTIPLE TIMES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS). AUDI DEALER STATES MODULE UNDERNEATH THE REAR SEAT IS CORRODED. IT'S A BRAND NEW CAR (LEASED < 3 MONTHS AGO). TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT AGAIN AS IT APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE AND IS HAZARDOUS FOR MY FAMILY.
NHTSA complaint #11408669 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.