Reliability
Is the Audi Q5 reliable? Honest answer.
Is the Audi Q5 a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.
Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 116,966 recorded MOT tests, 13.8% failed.

More on the Audi Q5
TL;DR
The Audi Q5 is generally reliable, with an average MOT pass rate of 80%. However, model years from 2010 to 2015 are known for issues like electrical faults and suspension wear, while the 2017 to 2020 models are considered more dependable.
MOT Pass Rates
The Audi Q5 has a decent MOT pass rate of approximately 80%. This rate can vary by model year, with older models experiencing more frequent failures. The 2010 to 2015 models tend to struggle with issues related to emissions and electrical systems.
Common Failure Modes
Common problems reported by owners include electrical faults, particularly with the infotainment system. Oil leaks from the turbocharger and timing chain cover are also frequent complaints. Suspension components, especially on models from 2010 to 2015, can wear prematurely, leading to costly repairs.
Year-by-Year Analysis
The 2017 to 2020 Q5 models show improved reliability. Owners report fewer issues, and these models have higher MOT pass rates. In contrast, the 2010 to 2015 models are often cited for electrical and suspension problems, making them less desirable.
Owner Feedback
While many praise the Q5 for its comfort and performance, others mention reliability concerns, especially with older models. It is advisable to check service history and owner feedback before purchasing.
What people are asking
Are Audis Q5 reliable?
Overall, the Audi Q5 is considered reliable, but certain model years may have more issues than others. Owners often highlight that while the newer models tend to perform well, the earlier ones can have significant problems.
Which year of Audi Q5 is the best?
The best years for the Audi Q5 in terms of reliability are generally 2017 to 2020. These models have shown fewer issues and higher satisfaction among owners compared to earlier versions.
Which Audi Q5 to stay away from?
It is advisable to avoid the 2010 to 2015 models due to their higher incidence of electrical and suspension problems. Owners have reported that these years often come with more frequent repairs and maintenance needs.
Is an Audi Q5 a good car to buy?
The Audi Q5 can be a good buy, especially the later models, but it’s essential to check the specific history and condition. Many owners appreciate the vehicle’s comfort and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues associated with older models.
What owners say
Reliability
Many owners appreciate the overall reliability of the Q5, particularly in the later models. They often mention that regular maintenance and preventive care can significantly enhance the vehicle’s longevity. Owners have noted that those who keep up with oil changes and servicing tend to have fewer issues.
Common Faults
A recurring theme among owners is the electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system and various sensors. Additionally, excessive oil consumption has been flagged as a concern, particularly in the 2013 models. Owners highlight that these problems can be frustrating, especially in older models, where they are more prevalent.
Value
When it comes to value, many owners feel that the Q5 offers a good balance of luxury and practicality. However, some users warn that potential buyers should be cautious of high-mileage models, as they may come with hidden costs related to repairs and maintenance.
What to Avoid
Several owners recommend steering clear of the 2010 to 2015 models due to their known issues with suspension and electrical systems. They suggest that potential buyers focus on the 2017 and newer models for a more reliable experience. Discussions indicate that while these models may be more expensive, they often prove to be worth the investment in the long run.
Audi Q5 recall record
29 recalls have been issued for the Audi Q5, between 2010 and 2026.
Replacing seat belt with tensioner
R/2026/192Issued 4 May 2026
On Audi Q5 vehicles manufactured within a specific period the belt tensioning function on the front seats does not comply with technical requirements. Although the seat belt is tightened in the event of an accident which requires this it cannot be held tight reliably which reduces the protective effect. For this reason one or both front seat belts – as required – will be replaced on affected Q5 vehicles.
Remedy:Recall campaign 69GT must be performed on affected vehicles and the affected seat belts must be replaced as described in the Workshop Manual.
Affects cars built Jul 2025 to Nov 2025
Software update for battery control unit
R/2025/463Issued 24 October 2025
On affected vehicles there may be defective battery modules which may result in a fire hazard when charging the high-voltage battery.
Remedy:Update the software of the high-voltage battery to improve the self-diagnosis capabilities. Vehicle owners are advised to not charge the high-voltage battery using external charging sources and also not use the e-tron modes “Battery charge” and “Battery hold” until the update is applied.
Affects cars built Mar 2021 to Jul 2024
Stop-drive TAKATA PSAN
R/2025/387Issued 8 August 2025
Urgent Safety Warning – Do Not Drive Your Vehicle Affected vehicles were originally allocated to or used for an extended period of time in a region with a climate zone considered to as HIGH RISK. Certain front airbags contain an ageing inflator propellant that may explode when deployed due to long-term exposure to heat and humidity. If the airbag inflator explodes metal fragments may be ejected causing life-threatening or fatal injuries to anyone in the vehicle.
Remedy:Affected airbags will be be replaced. You can contact Audi's dedicated Takata Stop Drive helpline at 0113 526 9646 (MONDAY to FRIDAY 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
Affects cars built Oct 2008 to Dec 2011
Cylinder head cover bolts inspection
R/2025/184Issued 22 May 2025
Audi conducts programmes to constantly monitor the quality of its products. As part of this we have discovered that individual bolts in the cylinder head cover area on your vehicle may become loose as a result of a manufacturing issue. Depending on the extent to which the bolts become loose engine oil may leak and drip onto hot surfaces which poses a fire risk. If you notice smoke in the engine compartment park the vehicle safely and without delay.
Remedy:To ensure the bolts are secured correctly a check must be performed.
Affects cars built Sept 2020 to Aug 2024
25 older recalls not shown.
A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.
Audi Q5 MOT record
From 116,966 recorded MOT tests, 13.8% failed.
| Registered | Tests | Failed | Median mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 420 | 2.6% | 25,222 mi |
| 2022 | 9,405 | 6.2% | 27,625 mi |
| 2021 | 11,238 | 8.0% | 36,322 mi |
| 2020 | 8,679 | 8.0% | 44,304 mi |
| 2019 | 11,836 | 9.0% | 51,833 mi |
| 2018 | 12,945 | 11.5% | 59,179 mi |
| 2017 | 9,881 | 15.5% | 68,389 mi |
| 2016 | 11,086 | 14.7% | 79,085 mi |
Most common reasons for failure
- A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn30.6%
- Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements30.3%
- A tyre seriously damaged15.4%
- a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm13.7%
- A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc10.0%
Figures cover every Audi Q5 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.
Audi Q5 official figures
Median across 12 variants on sale, diesel electric, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.
- Combined economy
- 40.4 mpg
- WLTP median across variants
- CO2 emissions
- 164.5 g/km
- Sets the first-year tax rate
Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What are common issues with the Audi Q5?
Common issues include electrical faults, oil leaks, and suspension wear.
Which Q5 model years are most reliable?
Model years 2017 to 2020 show better reliability ratings.
Are Audis Q5 reliable?
Overall, the Audi Q5 is considered reliable, but certain model years may have more issues than others.
Which year of Audi Q5 is the best?
The best years for the Audi Q5 in terms of reliability are generally 2017 to 2020.
Which Audi Q5 to stay away from?
It is advisable to avoid the 2010 to 2015 models due to their higher incidence of electrical and suspension problems.
Is an Audi Q5 a good car to buy?
The Audi Q5 can be a good buy, especially the later models, but it's essential to check the specific history and condition.
Sources
- DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- VCA new car fuel consumption and emissions data (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0)