NHTSA attached an advisory to a recall on this vehicle. Advisories apply to specific production runs — check your VIN with the manufacturer or at nhtsa.gov/recalls before driving it.
When it fails
01548315,483 milesMedian miles at failure
65 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.
Most common 2018 Audi Q5 problems
59 of the 209 complaints (28%) are about the electrical system.
Filed Dec 8, 2021288,991 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles. A liquid spill in the rear seat, or water ingress from an insufficient body seam underneath the vehicle may allow liquid to penetrate the gateway control module, causing it to shutdown.
Risk. A gateway control module shutdown will suddenly reduce engine power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Dealers will install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal an underbody seam as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90S9.
Filed Oct 16, 2019174,278 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi SQ5 and 2018-2020 Audi Q5 vehicles. The rear wheel arch cover trim may loosen and detach from the vehicle.
Risk. The detached trim may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy. Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the four clips securing the forward part of the rear wheel arch trim, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 66K8.
Filed Jun 5, 2019126,161 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The wheel arch cover trim may loosen and detach.
Risk. The detached trim may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will secure the wheel arch trim with an additional screw and nut, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66K6.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder19V277000
Filed Apr 8, 201912,645 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake master cylinder casting may be too short.
Risk. A short casting can cause a sudden loss of brakes, increasing the risk of crash. The electronic parking brake and its emergency brake function are not affected and will still function.
Remedy. Audi has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the brake master cylinder, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 3, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 47O9.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper18V369000Do not drive
Filed Jun 1, 201810,225 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf SportWagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.
Risk. A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners. Audi dealers will bleed the rear brakes. Volkswagen dealers will bleed the front and rear brake calipers. Note: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the brake system has been checked. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 47N8, 47N9, and 47N6.
Filed Dec 29, 20165,947 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf vehicles for driver frontal air bags, passenger frontal air bags or head air bags that may not deploy properly. Additionally, certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 vehicles are being recalled because the seat belt pretensioners may not activate properly.
Risk. In the event of a crash, if the air bags and/or the seat belt pretensioners do not inflate or function properly, the vehicle occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy. Volkswagen and Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected air bags and seat belt pretensioners, free of charge. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Structure
Filed Oct 26, 202670,000 milesMA
The contact owned a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that the sunroof drain was clogged, causing water to flood into the trunk where the spare tire was located. The water caused electrical failures, short-circuiting the brake lights and indicator lights. The contact stated that the circuit breaker was in the trunk of the vehicle. The message of an electrical failure was displayed on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and confirmed the failure. The technician at the dealer stated that the failure was a known failure. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 15, 2026CA
My 2018 Audi Q5 became disabled after liquid intrusion affected the gateway control module, which is the condition addressed by Audi Safety Recall 90S9. At the time of the failure, I was traveling away from home and was unaware that my vehicle had an open recall. Because the vehicle was disabled, it was taken to an independent repair facility for diagnosis (we were in a small mountain town on a Sunday). The independent facility accessed/opened the gateway module during its good-faith diagnostic effort after the vehicle had already failed. The vehicle was subsequently presented to Audi Reno. Audi refused to perform the recall repair/replacement because the gateway module had previously been accessed by the independent repair facility. I escalated the matter to Audi of America under case 07709194. Audi acknowledged in writing that the module was accessed as part of a good-faith diagnostic effort while I was stranded and unaware of the open recall. However, Audi continues to deny recall coverage based upon the prior diagnostic access. I have asked Audi to identify the specific written provision of Safety Recall 90S9 stating that diagnostic access to an already-failed gateway module disqualifies the vehicle from the safety recall, but Audi has not provided such a provision. I am reporting this because my vehicle experienced the safety condition addressed by the recall, yet Audi refused to perform the recall remedy based on diagnostic activity that occurred only after the vehicle
Carry Handle, Shell, Base
Filed Sep 30, 2026DE
After one year of use, the car seat developed a sudden defect. An internal rod slid out of place, protruding from the side of the car seat by about an inch. I reported the issue to Graco, and they confirmed this car seat defect is a child safety risk, and in fact the car seat is no longer safe for use. According to the Graco Consumer Care representative: "I do apologize, but the rod protruding from the car seat is not normal and presents a safety hazard. Unfortunately, this is not a replaceable part, and the issue cannot be repaired without replacing the entire car seat." I have a friend who experienced the same issue, and worry that the Graco Turn2Me is prone to sudden safety defects. We have kept the broken car seat and it is available for inspection. The car seat has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance, or anyone else.
Suspension
Filed Sep 30, 2026FL
Driving through the expressway a metal noice from the bottom of my car. One of the coil spring was out of the base and the other was broken. As the Audi dealer, the extended warranty doesn’t want to paid due to a corrosion on the bottom of the car. I’m live and drive close to the beach. They gave me thousands excuses to not fix it. My car has 60,000 miles and is from 2018. I was reading that those car may not be coated with special wax for corrosion.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 28, 2026NY
The sunroof drainage system on my 2018 Audi Q5 failed to properly channel water away from the vehicle, resulting in significant water intrusion and approximately $6,000 in damage. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Audi dealership after the vehicle was brought in for inspection in August 2026. I am concerned that this represents a design or engineering defect in the sunroof drainage system rather than ordinary wear. A drainage system intended to remove water should not allow water to enter areas of the vehicle where it can damage electrical components or other systems. Water intrusion into these areas could potentially create electrical failures or other safety-related problems. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Audi dealer, and Audi of America was contacted regarding the issue. Audi declined to cover the repairs. There were no clear warning lights or messages alerting me that the drainage system was failing before the water intrusion and resulting damage were discovered. The vehicle and affected components can be made available for inspection if necessary. I am submitting this complaint because I believe NHTSA should investigate whether similar sunroof drainage failures and resulting water intrusion have occurred in other Audi Q5 vehicles and whether this represents a broader vehicle safety defect.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 23, 2026PA
I have a 2018 Audi Q5, VIN [XXX]. I am reporting a water intrusion/electrical defect involving the rear trunk area and the Comfort Control Module. My vehicle is within the model range affected by the water-intrusion recall 90S9. I want Audi to investigate whether the water intrusion that damaged my vehicle is related to the recall or a known manufacturing defect, and I am requesting that Audi cover the inspection, repair, and related expenses.It is unsafe driving the car as it is, and I can't afford the repairs. Audi dealer-hip in Alentown Pa diagnosis the car and found the problem. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical System
Filed Sep 22, 2026FL
Multiple electrical failures that control numerous safety systems, such as airbags, Collision avoidance, speed control, etc. Airbags will not activate in a collision. Vehicle will shut off at highway speeds, resulting in loss of steering control. The vehicle has been inspected by an Audi dealer. Multiple warnings on dash came on when the issue occurred.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 10, 2026OH
Incident Description: While accelerating from a red light during rush hour, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic loss of steering control. The steering wheel locked completely and could not be turned. Simultaneous loud, long beeping and dashboard warnings appeared, stating: "Steering malfunction stop the vehicle immediately." The vehicle was immobilized in the middle of a highly congested, complex 5x5 intersection. Local police had to shut down traffic until the vehicle could be cleared. Safety Risk: Stalling abruptly in a major intersection during rush hour created an immediate risk of a multi-car rear-end pile-up. This jeopardized the safety of the driver and multiple children who were inside the vehicle, who faced a severe personal injury risk whether they remained trapped in the active roadway or attempted to exit. Diagnosis, Cost, and Recall Context: The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership. Diagnosis revealed significant water intrusion inside the steering wheel wiring harness. Draining the water cleared the error and the vehicle become operational, but the dealership quoted $6,000 in repairs to replace the steering components completely out-of-pocket cost. Please note it appears the $6,000 quote will be out-of-pocket for catastrophic safety defects although they may be known issues for the same make and model years: Prior Gateway Recall: This vehicle’s VIN was previously impacted by the Gateway module recall (where water intrusion triggers a limp mode).
Electrical System
Filed Aug 28, 2026NY
Description of Incident and Safety Defect:Failed Component & Inspection Availability: The gateway control module, located in an unsealed floor compartment under the rear seat, failed due to liquid/moisture intrusion. The damaged module and vehicle are fully available for inspection upon request.Safety Risk: The sudden short-circuit of this module forced the vehicle into an immediate emergency "limp mode" and partial drivetrain shutdown while actively driving on the road. Unexpectedly losing engine power and throttle responsiveness in active traffic put my safety and the safety of surrounding drivers at an immediate, severe risk of a collision.Dealer / Independent Confirmation: The failure has been officially confirmed by an authorized Audi dealership service center. However, the dealer refused to perform a free safety repair because Audi has excluded my specific VIN from the active recall list.Prior Inspections: Outside of the diagnosing Audi dealership service center, the vehicle and failed component have not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives.Warning Lamps & Prior Symptoms: Immediately prior to the drivetrain failure, the dashboard lit up with sudden error messages and warning lamps regarding a critical system malfunction. There were no gradual symptoms or warning signs leading up to this incident; the catastrophic module failure occurred suddenly due to moisture contacting the unsealed component.Summary Assessment:This vehicle has
Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026IL
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.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 18, 2026NY
XXX My wife drive her 2018 audi q5 2.0 on express way with mother([XXX]),the car suddenly stall and lost all power ,because car bcm2 module has suffered liquid damage due to known vehicle design defect, towing to nearest repair shop change new bcm2 module and fix wire spend near $4000.00 dollars . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Structure › BodyCrash
Filed Aug 17, 2026MD
I was pulling into (my usual) handicapped parking space, at a slow speed. As I approached the curb my brakes did NOT respond to stop my car. Not only did my brakes not respond, the car actually sped up - going up the curb and hitting the handicapped sign pole. The pole broke and stopped my vehicle! I was afraid my (out of control) vehicle would keep going through a store front - it did not. Folks gathered around- thinking I had put my foot on the gas . I DID NOT put my foot anywhere except on my BRAKES …which went ‘mushy’ . would not stop my vehicle. My research has found similar incidents reported by other drivers. I am NOT ALONE. Of course the dealership could not reproduce the incident. But they did suggest many other services for a car with 60,000 miles. The AUDI dealership took NO responsibility for the incident. There was a recall on the master cylinder that was supposedly handled before I took delivery of the vehicle in January 2019. Audi denied that anything was currently amiss with my master cylinder. There was a warning message when I tried to start my car about a week before. Because it made no sense - like your tires are low - I dismissed it as just a check engine light 🤷🏽♀️ I honestly can’t remember what that ‘odd’ warning said🤦🏽♀️ I’m not alone in reporting this - I’m almost afraid to drive my car😰
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jul 17, 2026WI
My 2018 Audi Q5 experienced significant water intrusion due to a failure of the panoramic sunroof drain system. Water entered the vehicle interior and traveled down into the electrical compartment, submerging the comfort module and damaging multiple wiring harnesses. This caused the vehicle to become inoperable and unable to start. Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin 2075969/2 describing this exact defect. The bulletin states that the sunroof drain hoses can be kinked during factory installation of the headliner, which blocks drainage and causes water to enter the vehicle. This is a manufacturing defect affecting multiple model years of the Audi Q5. In my case, the water intrusion caused electrical failure, loss of vehicle function, and required thousands of dollars in repairs. Audi declined to cover the defect and stated the vehicle was not maintained on schedule, even though maintenance has no relationship to kinked or improperly routed sunroof drains. This defect poses a safety risk because water intrusion into electrical components can cause sudden vehicle failure, electrical shorts, corrosion, and loss of critical systems. The failure occurred without warning. I am reporting this because the issue appears to be widespread, documented by Audi, and has the potential to disable vehicles unexpectedly.
Steering
Filed Jul 16, 2026TN
I wrote Audi to request escalation of an unresolved issue involving my 2018 Audi Q5, related to Safety Recall 90S9 (NHTSA Campaign 21V947000) for the gateway control module. Summary of the issue: My vehicle recently experienced a complete gateway control module failure due to water intrusion. I lost steering and brake assist warnings while driving, and the vehicle would not restart after being pulled over safely. It was towed first to the nearest Audi mechanic who diagnosed the issue as Recall 90S9. We then contacted Audi Memphis for inspection by them since it was a recall issues and paid a 2nd towing charge. Audi Memphis (owned by Gossett Motor Cars) said they could not do anything until they looked at the car. I have since obtained a copy of the original repair order from when Recall 90S9 was performed on my vehicle. The vehicle at the time of recall repair was owned by my Mother. The recall requires two remedies: (1) installation of a protective cover over the gateway control module, and (2) sealing of an underbody seam on vehicles produced before September 2021. The repair order shows a technician comment reading "INSF" next to the seam sealant line item, which indicates the sealant application was noted as insufficient at the time of the original recall service. Despite this documentation, and despite towing my vehicle in specifically for a 2nd inspection, Audi Memphis has stated they have no findings and no liability for the current failure. Given that: • My vehicle is
Electrical System
Filed Jun 16, 2026CA
The dashboard displayed a solid red brake light with a flashing warning “stop vehicle safely” light. A professional diagnostic scan confirmed a permanent hard fault on the ABS control Module (J104) and Hydraulic Unit (N55). The vehicle has only 66,755 miles. Independent repair shops cannot service this unit because it requires highly restricted, specialized Audi factory programming and coding software, forcing consumers to face massive dealership replacement costs for a premature electronic failure ona critical safety system.
Electrical System
Filed May 12, 2026103,000 milesME
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact replaced the battery. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, however the vehicle was not diagnosed. The independent mechanic attempted to start the vehicle, however the vehicle failed to start. The independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and noticed that the gateway control modular was moist. The contact was informed that the gateway control module had become moist because of the broken seal, the vehicle shut down. The contact stated that the contact's wife had spilled a liquid substance into the vehicle. In addition, the contact was provided pictures of the corrosion. The contact referenced an unknown recall which had a similar failure description, however the contact's VIN was not associated. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. In addition, the contact was informed that the unknown recall only covered the seal. The contact was informed that the recall did not cover the replacement of the gateway control modular. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair of the corroded seal was covered un
Engine
Filed Apr 27, 2026CA
I was driving home from the farmers market with my two young kids. I was turning left at a busy intersection when the engine died and an engine warning flashed on the dash (I don't recall the exact message; it sounded catastrophic). There were no "check engine" or any other warning messages prior to the incident. I was able to restart the car immediately and give it a lot of gas to get out of the intersection - thank goodness - but didn't feel it was safe to drive the full 1 mile home, as there are several inopportune locations for an engine to die along the route, so I parked it in a residential neighborhood and walked home with my kids. My instinct there seems correct as it would not start again thereafter. I got it towed on the Monday and the mechanic called me to tell me that a piston had broken off in the engine and there is complete engine failure. I've attached a photo he took. This is a car we've had for 5 months with only 47,000 miles on it, regular service according to Carfax, and full/clean oil. No error messages or warnings prior. It was really scary to be in a busy intersection with a dead engine and young kids in the car.
Steering
Filed Apr 16, 2026NJ
Title - Sudden Loss of Steering Control While Driving – 2018 Audi Q5 (Aug 2024) While driving my 2018 Audi Q5 at normal road speeds, the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of power steering assist. A dashboard alert stating “Power Steering Malfunction” appeared simultaneously with an immediate and severe increase in steering effort, making the steering wheel extremely difficult to turn and effectively resulting in a loss of steering control. This incident occurred on a public roadway while I was transporting my family, including two young children (ages [XXX] and [XXX] ). The uncommanded loss of steering assist created an immediate and serious safety hazard and could have resulted in a crash, serious injuries, or fatalities to vehicle occupants and others on the road. I was able to bring the vehicle to a stop and subsequently to the dealership, only with significant effort and risk. There were no prior warning lamps, noises, reduced steering assist, or other symptoms before the failure. The malfunction was abrupt and occurred without any advance indication. The vehicle had approximately 39,000 miles at the time, which is well below what would reasonably be expected for a power steering rack failure. The vehicle was not modified or abused and was driven under normal conditions. Audi dealership confirmed failure of the electric power steering system and diagnosed the issue as a power steering rack failure requiring full replacement. The repair was completed only aft
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Apr 12, 2026AZ
I was pulling slowly into a parking space at a grocery store, with my right foot on the brake, nearly stopped. Then the car rapidly and suddenly accelerated unintentionally. The car jumped over a bush, a median, rammed into a parked car, pushing it across the next parking lane into a third car. The third car, in turn, bumped a fourth car. Safety: The air bags did not deploy. The potential for significant injury to me, nearby pedestrians and people in cars was extremely high. Luckily, I was able to brace myself sufficiently, there were no pedestrians nearby and no one was in any of the cars. There were no warning lights, beeps, messages or any other information to indicate a defect or potential malfunction.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 30, 2026NH
The rear view camera is not operating when shifting to reverse. I can demonstrate this malfunction at any time to anyone. Driver is unable to detect short objects or small children directly behind the vehicle. The problem was confirmed by the dealer during a service visit. At that time, the service technician checked power and ground to the control unit and verified good. Attempted calibration for camera, vehicle would not calibrate. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other agencies. There were no warning messages, or lamps or any other symptoms prior to the failure.
Air Bags
Filed Mar 18, 2026DE
The Seat Occupancy Detection System is malfunctioning. The passenger airbag warning light activates when a passenger occupies the passenger seat and the passenger overhead reading light remains on when the seat is occupied including overnight. These are established symptoms of Seat Occupancy Detection System failure. The manufacturer issued a warranty extension specifically covering this defect for 10 years and unlimited miles. When the vehicle was presented at an authorized dealer for diagnosis and repair under the warranty extension, the service advisor deliberately omitted the airbag warning light symptom from the repair order and inserted pre-emptive warranty denial language before any diagnosis was performed. The airbag system malfunction remains unrepaired despite an active manufacturer warranty extension covering this exact defect. The dealer’s failure to properly document and address an airbag warning light constitutes a safety concern that NHTSA should investigate.
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 5, 2026WA
Problem with Brake booster servo issue comes on the dash then goes away. Brakes are spongy and brake pedal makes a swooshing sound when pressed
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 25, 2026UT
I am submitting this complaint to report a safety defect involving a 2018 Audi Q5 (Premium Plus, Technology Package). The vehicle’s MMI infotainment/navigation system intermittently shuts down or reboots during operation. When this occurs while the vehicle is in in reverse, the rearview camera display immediately goes blank and remains unavailable until the system completes its reboot cycle. This failure has occurred during active reversing maneuvers, creating a significant safety concern. An incident already occurred that resulted in an impact to another object during backing and the camera display/MMI going blank loss just prior to stopping. The rearview camera is a required safety system under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111. When the system powers off unexpectedly, the driver loses critical rear visibility information at precisely the moment it is most needed. The condition appears to be software-related, as the infotainment system restarts on its own. However, the temporary loss of the camera display increases the risk of collision with pedestrians, other vehicles, or stationary objects. I understand that recalls have been issued for similar rearview camera display failures in later model-year Audi Q5 vehicles. The symptoms I am experiencing are materially similar and may indicate a broader defect pattern affecting earlier production years. I have attempted to resolve the issue with Audi and their technicians and service management. The conclusion was they
Power Train
Filed Feb 20, 2026CA
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.
Suspension
Filed Dec 28, 2025VA
The front subframe on the vehicle is severely rusted and corroded through rust. Part of it has fallen off, and the rest of it is badly damaged. A structural integrity, a major safety risk. The Audi Dealer inspected it and confirmed. The car is unsafe to drive.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 23, 2025NY
Unpublished costly catastropic electrical failure Audi of America reviewed the case and declined assistance solely because the vehicle was already totaled and unavailable for dealer inspection. Audi did not dispute the presence of water intrusion, the technical findings, or the cause of failure. This failure occurred without warning under ordinary environmental conditions and resulted in sudden loss of vehicle function. I am submitting this complaint to document a potential defect related to the protection and placement of electronic systems vulnerable to water exposure. I am submitting this complaint to report a potential safety-related defect involving water intrusion and catastrophic electrical failure in a 2018 Audi S5. After a heavy rain event with no roadway flooding or submersion, my vehicle experienced complete electrical failure and would not start. Inspection revealed water intrusion into the trunk area where critical electronic components—including the battery and electronic control modules—are located. The damage was extensive and rendered the vehicle inoperable, resulting in a total loss determination. Attached documentation includes photographs, video evidence, and a technical inspection summary prepared by an independent automotive service facility and reviewed in consultation with Audi-trained technicians. The findings indicate water intrusion consistent with design vulnerability rather than misuse or lack of maintenance.
Engine
Filed Dec 18, 2025NJ
Vehicle: 2018 Audi Q5 Prestige Mileage: Approximately 34,000 miles On December 14, 2024, while driving at normal road speeds, my vehicle suddenly lost power and displayed multiple warning messages, including drivetrain and system malfunction alerts. The vehicle became unstable and unsafe to operate while I was in traffic, forcing me to carefully maneuver off the roadway. This occurred without any prior warning or abnormal engine behavior, it was just so sudden. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Audi dealership the following day. After inspection, the dealership diagnosed a catastrophic internal engine failure, identifying a cracked/chipped valve in cylinder 3. The dealership technicians and service staff stated that this type of failure is extremely rare on a vehicle with such low mileage and normal maintenance history. They also indicated that they had not encountered this type of valve failure on a similarly maintained Audi vehicle at this mileage. There was no evidence of carbon buildup or abuse, and no external contributing factors were identified. The failure resulted in sudden engine malfunction and loss of drivability while the vehicle was in motion, creating a significant safety risk. The dealership recommended replacing the engine cylinder head, with an estimated repair cost approximately $9,100. The dealership could not confirm whether debris from the damaged valve remained in the engine or whether the repair would fully mitigate future safety risks. I am submi
Power TrainCrash
Filed Oct 28, 2025NC
On 10/27/25 as I was slowly pulling into a parking space, my Audi Q5 lurched forward and jumped the curb crashing into a tree. Happened too quickly to apply the brakes. No warning indications at the time of the incident. Car would not start and had to be towed to a repair shop. The insurance adjuster is evaluating the damage, probably the vehicle will be totaled. Luckily the tree stopped the car and nobody was in in front as the car jumped the curb.
Seat Belts1 injured
Filed Oct 20, 202560,000 milesCO
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked with her son was in the car seat, the rear driver’s side seat lap band was twisted and was stuck around his waist. The contact stated that the seat belt failed to retract, and the contact had to cut the seat belt with a pair of scissors. The contact stated that the child had a bruise on his lower stomach near his hip however, medical attention was not needed. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and it was determined that the seat belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 10, 2025AZ
Car displayed a warning sign that safety system malfunctioned. Airbag indicator showed “passenger airbag off”. This error occurred sporadically and for a limited amount of time. It also kept sensing that passenger seat was occupied when it wasn’t. From what I understand , the issue is related to passenger side PODS sensor.
Suspension
Filed Oct 3, 2025MI
Rear coil springs broke. No heavy duty cycle. 46,000 miles. Spring retention pads dislocated and destroyed. Powder coat anti rust prevention in 90% good shape. No reason for coil springs to break other than assembly defect or supplier material defect.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 20, 2025TN
My car randomly rebooting while driving. The whole MMI goes down
Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 16, 2025TN
The vehicle stalls and does not move forward while I was driving it stalled. I had to allow it to roll freely out of traffic.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 9, 2025TX
Safety System Malfunction message appears on dash. Passenger side air bag goes on and off while driving. Whole system chimes and random messages flashing on screen constantly. At times system doesn’t recognize that I have my drivers side seatbelt buckled. So system keeps chiming cars Stanton. Random messages flash on dash. Traffic jam assist (3 cars symbol) unavailable and image flash on dash and does another chime. Vehicle has given random warning beeps when reversing 2 times since these issues started and has done automatic breaking both times as I was trying to reverse. Issues happen randomly and started about 300 miles ago (2 weeks or so) seem to be getting more frequent in past few days. I was trying to check today for open recall and was surprised to not have any for this issue / vehicle. I have not yet called the dealership but plan on doing so this week. This “Safety System Malfunction” and all the chimes, flashes, beeps, screen messages and the automatic vehicle responses is VERY dangerous!!
Forward Collision Avoidance
Filed Aug 6, 202560,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2019 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, with no other vehicles or objects nearby, the Forward Collision Avoidance system unintendedly activated. The contact stated that within seconds, the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking system engaged, greatly reducing the speed before returning to normal functionality. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to diagnose the failure with Forward Collision Avoidance system. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 27, 2025IN
BCM
Electrical System
Filed Jul 17, 202558,000 milesNC
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving 35-40 MPH and accelerating, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact pulled to the side of the road, and the vehicle was able to restart. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the body control module(BCM) was floating in water. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V947000 (Electrical System, Structure), and the additional repairs were at the contact's expense. The contact stated that the recall remedy was inadequate for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 9, 2025120,000 milesLA
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed due to the cost. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that the warning light was intermittently illuminated. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 30, 2025IN
A coil that is attached underneath the sunroof is attached to the BCM. There is not a drain plug at the end so there was 5 inches of water there and the BCM was made to sit in that spot. The electrical wires and BCM were burned out because of this. The BCM controls the entire system not limited to the start button and everything that runs the car. I have only had the vehicle less than 1 year and it costs 4000 dollars to fix. My car has been at the dealership since June 9th.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 24, 202583,000 milesMN
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while pulling into a business at an undisclosed speed, there was an unknown warning light illuminated, and the message "Left and Right Rear Signal and Center Rear Brake Light Malfunction" was displayed. Additionally, the contact stated that the key warning light and engine malfunction warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was determined that there was water intrusion into the rear cargo area of the vehicle, due to a clogged drain. The contact was informed that the drain tube needed to be cleaned, the module needed to be replaced, and the vehicle needed to be rewired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 12, 2025PA
My vehicle spontaneously began displaying emergency signals including engine malfunction, turn signal malfunction, parking brake malfunction, brake light malfunction. I would also turn the car completely off and brake lights would remain on asymetrically. Also, the related alert bells would go off intermittently. I have kept my car in good repair and on a regular maintanence schedule. I took the car first to my mechanic who evaluated and said I should take to the Audi dealership. After two days of diagnosis, they came back that the sunroof drains were clogged with debris which definitively caused water to enter and soak the "comfort module" After irrigating them, they did not find any damage and said they do not need replacement. However, the water soaked and heavily corroded the comfort module and say the entire module needs to be replaced along with a rebuild of the harness. They are quoting me $12,300. My safety was at risk in the malfunction of the engine system, and especially signalling capabilities and possible brake impact. The problem has been confirmed by two mechanics - mine and Audi I searched online and have discovered a number of other 2018 Audi Q5 owner accounts of the same and similar defect and result. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension
Filed May 24, 2025IL
The rear passenger side suspension coil was found broken with a clean break but embedded into the coil boot during a 70k service at the Audi dealer with ~61k miles. No alarming condition of the failure was present, and if it would have dislodged while at speed on the interstate would have resulted in complete loss of control and bodily harm to the driver as well as other vehicles on the road. This was a CPO vehicle garage kept and routinely serviced by Audi, yet they denied any liability and provided no assistance when I escalated to corporate due to being out of CPO warranty by ~2 months. As a result, I had an independent VW specialist shop perform the work, document the observations as if they were to be subpoenaed in the future, and provide me all the parts from the repair (which I still have). The spring coating is completely intact on both rear coils and during the repair process it is evident that the part number has changed from what was originally installed to the current version. The clean break suggests part defect either in design for use or in the spring manufacture. Further investigation on various Audi forums as well as the NHTSA shows this is a prevalent failure for the 2018 Q5 and Audi should be doing something about this.
Electrical System
Filed May 22, 2025IL
Turns out numerous complaints about water finding its way onto the computer comfort module. It is well known. Audi techs admitted it is due a bad design by Audi. There are no indications or warnings something is going wrong. Module gets fried and vehicle shuts off. Can't even shift or take out of Park. Insurances do not want to cover due it being water related. Audi does not want to repair due to no recall. They want approx $10,000.00 per occurrence when this happens. Definitely not fair to consumers to have to pay this or total their vehicles. My car only has 50k miles.
Engine
Filed May 13, 2025FL
Fuel pump has been recalled on other models but not mine. I have a 2018 audi q5. It had a warranty extension but the previous owner never claimed but if it would have been a recall then I wouldnt be having this problem . Now I have to replace the water pump and pay almost $2k for something that wasn't a recall.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 24, 2025NC
WATER SEEPED INTO COMFORT CONTROL MODULE VIA BLOCKED SUNROOF DRAIN HOSES AND DAMAGED ELECTRICAL. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE SAME ISSUE REGADING THE GATEWAY CONTROL MODULE WHICH ALLOWS SHOPS TO ADD A PROTECTIVE COVER. THIS SAME RECALL NEEDS TO BE ON THE COMFORT CONTROL MODULE SINCE THE WAY THEY DESIGNED THE SUNROOF DRAINS ALLOWS FOR WATER TO SEEP INTO THE CC MODULE. THIS IS A RIDICULOUS DESIGN THAT REQUIRES A 11K DOLLAR REPAIR FOR CUSTOMERS.
Engine
Filed Mar 25, 202549,000 milesCA
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle started to vibrate abnormally with the message "Engine Fault Detected" displayed. The driver was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle stalled and was unable to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the connecting rod bearings, resulting in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 49,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 24, 2025OH
Gateway control module on engine coolant system
Air Bags
Filed Mar 16, 2025PA
I have owned the car for 2 years, purchased a 2018 Q5 from an Audi dealer. Within the first year, my thermostat failed causing the car to lose power and turn off while driving with my newborn baby. I also received the passenger airbag alert daily, which I did see there was a recall for this prior to buying the car. I also received the “add a quart of oil” message about 3 months after an oil change. I would like this car to be reviewed for excessive oil consumption. At the times of these messages no oil leak was found. Now, my car went in for an oil change and an oil and transmission oil leak has been found. Within 2 years of owning a car that has had regular maintenance, I have spent over $6,000 on service and repairs, which is unusual. I need help.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 5, 2025170,000 milesSC
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. The message "Shut off Engine, Check Cooling" was displayed on the instrument panel. In addition, the contact stated that the engine temperate gauge was elevated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a cracked coolant line. The vehicle was repaired twice however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to another local independent mechanic for a second opinion and the vehicle was diagnosed and repaired; however, the failure reoccurred twice. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 5, 2025170,000 milesSC
The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle had dealt with a loss of automotive power. A warning message "Shut off Engine, Check Cooling" had appeared in the instrument panel. In addition, the contact stated that the engine temperate gauge had risen. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a cracked coolant line. The vehicle was repaired twice however, the failure had occurred. The vehicle was taken to another local independent mechanic for a second opinion where the vehicle was diagnosed and repaired however the failure occurred twice again. The local dealer was contacted however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Complaints 1-50 of 209, newest first, reproduced as filed.
NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Dec 8, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.