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2014-2015 · 2 model years

Audi Q5 Hev Problems by year

Owners have filed 183 complaints about the Audi Q5 Hev across 2 model years, and it has 0 recalls. The 2014 has the most complaints once its age is allowed for (95). The most reported problem area is the engine & cooling, followed by the steering.

Most complaints for its age201495 complaints · 0 recallsSee the 2014
Complaints
183
Recalls
0
Crashes
7
Fires
2
Injuries
11
Deaths
0

Q5 Hev complaints by model year

Highlighted: the year with the most complaints for its age. Older vehicles have had more time to collect complaints - the Safety Index grade allows for that.

YearComplaintsRecallsCrashesFiresTop problemGrade
201588031Engine & cooling-
201495041Engine & cooling-

Most common Q5 Hev problems

Latest Q5 Hev complaints

2014 Audi Q5 HevSteeringSuspension

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...

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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.

Filed Incident Steering · Suspension · Unknown or otherNHTSA 11678953
2014 Audi Q5 HevEngine & cooling

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.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11678346
2014 Audi Q5 HevBody, doors & structure

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.

Filed Incident StructureNHTSA 11672270
2014 Audi Q5 HevElectrical systemEngine & cooling

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

Filed Incident Electrical system · EngineNHTSA 11670746
2015 Audi Q5 HevEngine & coolingFuel system

Vehicle: 2015 Audi Q5 2.0T VIN: [[redacted]] At around 70,000 miles, my vehicle began consuming engine oil abnormally. I received a low-oil warning and had to add 1 quart every 1,000 miles. I first approached an authorized Audi dealer at 75,000 miles, who inspected the vehicle and stated this was "normal for older vehicles" and found no issues. However, the problem worsened rapidly. By 79,000 miles, I visited a second Audi dealer who acknowledged that this was a common problem in this engine type. They quoted me...

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$16,000-$20,000 for a full engine replacement, stating they could not replace pistons alone. At 80,000 miles, my car now consumes 1 quart of oil every 200 miles. The oil warning light comes on frequently. I am forced to carry oil and top off multiple times per week. This is not normal wear for a luxury vehicle with regular maintenance. This condition creates multiple safety risks: •Sudden engine seizure or power loss if oil runs too low, especially while driving at highway speeds. •Loss of steering/brake assist due to oil pressure failure. •Increased fire risk from leaks or overheating. •Frequent roadside stops to add oil, risking exposure to traffic. •Distraction while driving due to monitoring oil levels. •Environmental hazard from oil spills. The engine remains available for inspection. The vehicle has only been inspected by Audi dealerships. Audi should be held accountable for a defect that compromises safety and reliability at relatively low mileage. I urge NHTSA to investigate and take appropriate action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident Engine · Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11669364
2015 Audi Q5 HevDriver assistance

System does no longer work. Audi Montgomery inspected the vehicle and deamed that both side blind spot warning components have failed. People come to trust the system and when it fails they would lane change, not be warned and cause an accident. Dealer comfirmed failed components. Opened a concern with Audi USA and was told I am responsible for repairing the failed system. 6/19/2025.

Filed Incident Lane departureNHTSA 11668160

Questions about the Audi Q5 Hev

Which Audi Q5 Hev years have the most problems?

By the number of complaints owners filed with NHTSA: 2014 (95), 2015 (88). Allowing for how long each has been on the road, the 2014 stands out most. Complaint counts also rise with sales, so compare years of the same model rather than different models.

What are the most common Audi Q5 Hev problems?

Across every model year, owners report problems with the engine & cooling (77), steering (31), fuel system (22) most often.

How many recalls does the Audi Q5 Hev have?

NHTSA lists no recalls for any Audi Q5 Hev model year on file.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked daily. Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data

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