2014 Audi Q5 Reliability Report

NHTSA data as of Oct 15, 2026Published Oct 19, 2026

Good

Ranks 13th of 16 Q5 years we score.

Owner complaints: 118; 7 are recall notices
Per 10,000 cars: 26.5; 41,911 made for the U.S.
Vs the average car: 0.80×; same age, 1× is average
Serious outcomes: 46; crash, fire, injury, stall or tow
Recalls: 6
NHTSA crash rating: 4★; overall, out of 5

← 2013 Q5 2015 Q5 →

Should You Buy the 2014 Audi Q5?

Yes, with the usual checks. Our reliability score for the 2014 Audi Q5 is 71 out of 100, which rates Good. Owners reported fewer problems than for the average car of the same age. It ranks 13th of the 16 Q5 years we score.

The most reported problem is the steering, mostly locking up (20 of 118 complaints). Owners also complain about the frame and body structure and high oil consumption. 46 of the 118 complaints describe a serious outcome, such as a crash, a fire, an injury or stalling while driving.

It has 6 recalls. Audi also offers eight warranty extensions that may still apply, for problems with the emissions system, engine, steering and driver assistance systems. NHTSA rates it 4 out of 5 stars overall in crash tests. For comparison, the 2013 scores 74 and the 2015 scores 74.

Before you buy, check that the recalls were done, ask an Audi dealer about warranty extension AWA-17-02 and get an independent inspection. The full checklist is at the end of this page.

Pros

Good reliability score of 71
Fewer problems than the average car its age
No do-not-drive or park-outside recalls
8 Audi warranty extensions may cover repairs

Cons

Steering: locking up20 complaints
Frame or structure: rust or corrosion15 complaints
Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil13 complaints

How the 2014 Q5 Earned Its Score

Every model year starts at 100. Each part takes points away when this year has more problems than the average car of the same age. How we score

Score breakdown
Item	Vs average	Points lost
Starting score		100
Serious problems	0.81×	−9
Everyday problems	0.79×	−4
Problems in the last two years	1.2×	−10
Recalls	1.0×	−6
Score		71

What Owners Report

We read all 118 complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2014 Audi Q5, one by one, and grouped them by the problem they describe. The most reported problems come first. A complaint that describes more than one problem is counted under each, so the counts add up to more than 118.

Steering: locking up
20 complaints (17%)
Locking up, sticking or stiffness and a failure. 13 of these 20 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often loss of steering control. In 3 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem, and in 3 it came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 46,000 miles.
Frame or structure: rust or corrosion
15 complaints (13%)
Rust or corrosion. 4 of these 15 complaints describe a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 92,000 miles.
Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
13 complaints (11%)
Burning or using oil. Median mileage when it started: about 83,000 miles.
Cooling system: a leak
7 complaints (6%)
A leak and a failure that needed a new part. Median mileage when it started: about 92,000 miles.
Fuel pump: vibration or shudder
5 complaints (4%)
Vibration or shudder, a loss of power and stalling. 4 of these 5 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. Median mileage when it started: about 70,000 miles.
Timing chain or camshaft failure
5 complaints (4%)
A failure and early wear. 2 of these 5 complaints describe a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 74,000 miles.
Piston rings failure
4 complaints (3%)
A failure and pistons too small. 2 of these 4 complaints describe a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 82,000 miles.
Body seals (water leak): water leaking in
3 complaints (3%)
Water leaking in.
Diesel emissions system failure
3 complaints (3%)
A failure and a stored fault code. 1 of these 3 complaints describes a serious outcome.
Engine: stalling
3 complaints (3%)
Stalling and unusual noises. 2 of these 3 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving.
Stall (cause not stated)
3 complaints (3%)
Stalling. All 3 describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. Median mileage when it started: about 103,000 miles.
Unintended acceleration (cause not stated)
3 complaints (3%)
Sudden acceleration and surging. 2 of these 3 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often sudden acceleration or braking. Median mileage when it started: about 59,000 miles.
Airbags: no deployment in a crash
2 complaints (2%)
No deployment in a crash.
Brakes: early wear
2 complaints (2%)
Early wear and loss of braking. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: loss of braking.
Engine failure: locking up
2 complaints (2%)
Locking up and a failure that needed a new part. Both describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving.

Show 9 more problems

Engine oil leak
2 complaints (2%)
A leak. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: stalling or losing power while driving.
Exterior lights failure
2 complaints (2%)
A failure and a feature that stopped working.
Fuel system: a leak
2 complaints (2%)
A leak and a loss of power. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: stalling or losing power while driving.
Fuel leak
2 complaints (2%)
A leak. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: a tow.
Headlights: damage
2 complaints (2%)
Damage.
Loss of power (cause not stated)
2 complaints (2%)
A loss of power. Both describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving.
Start-stop system: works on and off
2 complaints (2%)
Problems that come and go and warning lights. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome.
Sunroof glass (shattered): shattering or cracking
2 complaints (2%)
Shattering or cracking. Both describe a serious outcome.
Windshield wipers failure
2 complaints (2%)
A failure and smearing.

Reported Once (26)

Show the 26 problems reported once

Battery drain: draining the battery
Cabin odor or mold: a bad smell
Door latches: warning lights
Engine (misfire codes): rough running or misfires
Frontal airbags: no deployment in a crash
Fumes in cabin (cause not stated)
High-pressure fuel pump failure
Ignition or power mode (won't shut off): not shutting off
Ignition or push-button start: damage
Interior trim: stopped working
Mirrors: view blocked by mirror
Hybrid system: failure or loss of drive
Universal joints (cause not stated)
Door lock actuators: stopped working
Seat belts: no deployment in a crash
Side blind zone alert: stopped working
Sunroof: unusual noises
Timing belt: early wear
Tires: parts breaking or coming apart
Transmission: slipping
Transmission fluid leak
Turbocharger failure
Valve train: damage
Warning lights (cause not stated)
Windshield: shattering or cracking
Wiring, fuses or body control module: a fire

How the 2014 Audi Q5 Compares With Other Years

The other Q5 years of the 1st generation, 2009 to 2017, and the years just before and after it.

Year	Rating	Score	Vs average	Per 10k cars	Recalls	Most reported problem
2018	Good	73	0.80×	20.1	6	Control module (unspecified): damage
2017	Excellent	81	0.36×	10.7	5	Cooling system: a leak
2016	Good	78	0.44×	13.0	5	Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
2015	Good	74	0.58×	19.2	7	Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
2014 This year	Good	71	0.80×	26.5	6	Steering: locking up
2013	Good	74	0.82×	30.8	5	Steering: sticking or stiffness
2012	Good	70	0.72×	28.6	6	Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
2011	Good	70	1.0×	38.4	5	Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
2010	Good	73	0.77×	33.8	4	Fuel pump: a leak
2009	Good	74	0.68×	29.2	6	Fuel pump: a leak

See every Q5 year

2014 Audi Q5 Recalls

Six recalls cover the 2014 Audi Q5. The most recent was issued in April 2018: “Coolant Pump May Overheat or Short-Circuit.” A VIN check at NHTSA shows which are still open on a given car.

Coolant Pump May Overheat or Short-Circuit
A blocked pump or a short-circuited pump can increase the risk of a fire.
NHTSA 18V229000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Apr 11, 2018. By the second quarter of 2020, 87% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Auxiliary Heater Electrical Connector May Melt
Contact corrosion within the electrical connector for the auxiliary heater may cause the heater wires to overheat or melt. The melted wires can increase the risk of a fire.
NHTSA 17V622000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Oct 5, 2017. By the first quarter of 2019, 86% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Fuel Pump Flange May Crack Causing Fuel Leak
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
NHTSA 17V298000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued May 3, 2017. By the fourth quarter of 2018, 93% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Air Bag Inflator May Rupture Due to Corrosion
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
NHTSA 17V001000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Jan 3, 2017. By the second quarter of 2018, 92% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Coolant Pump May Overheat and Cause Fire
If the coolant pump overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
NHTSA 17V002000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Jan 3, 2017. By the second quarter of 2018, 92% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
NHTSA 15V452000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Jul 20, 2015. By the fourth quarter of 2016, 96% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.

2014 Audi Q5 Warranty Extensions and Programs

Audi has eight warranty extensions for the 2014 Audi Q5, separate from its recalls. They are for problems with the engine, emissions system, steering and driver assistance systems. Whether one applies to a car depends on its VIN, which an Audi dealer can check.

Warranty extensionAudi AWA-17-02
Bridge warranty until 3.0 TDI emissions fix
The problem:
Under the emissions recall, these 3.0 TDI diesels waited for an approved fix. Their new car warranty could run out before the fix was ready.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs defects in materials or workmanship as the new car warranty would, with the same exclusions, such as tires and wear items.
Who qualifies:
3.0 TDI Gen 2 diesels in the emissions recall whose new car warranty ran out, with no other coverage. Owners who opted out of the class action settlement do not qualify. For Gen 2.1 Q7s it ended November 6, 2017.
Coverage:
From January 31, 2017, or the end of the new car warranty if later, until an emissions fix is approved or denied.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-18-01
Emissions and engine warranty after 3.0 TDI fix
The problem:
Under a recall, these 3.0 TDI diesels got an emissions fix. Audi then extended the emissions warranty and added a warranty for the engine's core parts.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs covered emissions and core engine parts under this warranty. If a repair keeps the car 3 hours or more, a free loaner or rental is offered.
Who qualifies:
3.0 TDI Gen 2 A6, A7, A8 and Q5, engine codes CPNA or CPNB, fixed under the emissions recall. No model years are named. Totaled cars qualify unless earlier damage caused the failure.
Coverage:
10 years or 120,000 miles from the in-service date, or 4 years or 48,000 miles from the fix, each whichever comes first. The longer applies.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-16-09
3.0 TDI exhaust gas temperature sensor fault
The problem:
Because of a manufacturing issue, the exhaust gas temperature sensor in the EGR cooler can malfunction now and then. The check engine light comes on, and emissions may be affected.
The fix:
An Audi dealer diagnoses the sensor and replaces it under the extended warranty if it is faulty.
Who qualifies:
Certain 2014 and 2015 Audis with the 3.0 TDI diesel, engine codes CNRB, CPNA or CPNB. The faulty sensor must have turned the check engine light on and kept it on.
Coverage:
10 years or 120,000 miles from the original in-service date, whichever comes first.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-19-06
Engine water pump failure, 2.0 engine
The problem:
The main engine water pump on the 2.0 EA888 engine can fail. A failed water pump can also damage the engine.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs or replaces a failed water pump. Audi pays 5 to 100 percent of engine damage it caused, based on age and mileage.
Who qualifies:
Certain 2008 to 2014 Audis with the 2.0 EA888 engine in the class action settlement. The owner needs records showing the right coolant was used and checked on schedule, within 10 percent, or a signed declaration. Totaled cars are excluded.
Coverage:
10 years or 100,000 miles from the original in-service date, whichever comes first.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-21-03
Electromechanical steering unit malfunction
The problem:
The electromechanical steering unit can malfunction. The bulletin does not describe the symptoms.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs or replaces a malfunctioning steering unit, with any parts and labor needed.
Who qualifies:
Certain 2012 to 2015 A4, Q5, SQ5 and A6. Cars already repaired still qualify, but totaled cars do not.
Coverage:
10 years or 125,000 miles from the original in-service date, whichever comes first.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-21-04
Turbocharger failure
The problem:
The turbo can fail. The bulletin does not describe the symptoms.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs or replaces a failed turbo, with any parts and labor needed.
Who qualifies:
Certain settlement class cars: 2013 to 2016 A4 sedan and allroad, 2013 to 2017 A5 and Q5, and 2012 to 2015 A6. Cars already repaired still qualify, but totaled cars do not. Each car's term depends on coolant pump work.
Coverage:
At least 14 months from April 12, 2021 or a coolant pump recall. No miles are stated. Ask an Audi dealer for the exact terms.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-24-01
High oil use or fractured pistons
The problem:
2012 to 2014 A4, A5, A6, Q5 and TT can use too much oil. On 2015 to 2017 A3 and 2016 to 2017 TT, a piston can fracture.
The fix:
Audi pays 75 percent of an Audi dealer's repair. Engine damage caused by the problem is paid at 25 to 100 percent, based on age and mileage.
Who qualifies:
Cars in the settlement class. The owner must prove oil maintenance within 10 percent of schedule during their ownership, or sign a sworn statement if records are missing. Ask an Audi dealer for the exact terms.
Coverage:
9 years or 90,000 miles from the in-service date, whichever comes first. Cars past 9 years on January 29, 2024 got until April 8, 2024.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)
Warranty extensionAudi AWA-24-04
Automatic emergency braking system faults
The problem:
The automatic emergency braking, or AEB, system can malfunction when its control unit, a camera, the LIDAR or a sensor fails.
The fix:
An Audi dealer repairs the AEB fault and Audi pays 75 percent of the cost. Damage from crashes, impacts, moved sensors or weather is not covered.
Who qualifies:
Certain Audis covered by the settlement, with a confirmed fault in the AEB control unit, cameras, LIDAR or sensors. If the new car warranty's time ran out by May 16, 2024, the extension's time limit was November 16, 2024.
Coverage:
Up to 12 months or 12,000 miles after the new car warranty ends. Ask an Audi dealer for the exact terms.
Audi's bulletin (PDF)

2014 Audi Q5 NHTSA Investigations

NHTSA has opened one investigation that covers the 2014 Audi Q5. It has closed.

Pedestrian alert sounds on hybrid and electric vehicles
Closed
A petition asked NHTSA to apply its pedestrian alert sound standard to all electric and hybrid vehicles. NHTSA opened a defect petition in January 2023. NHTSA's file lists Audi hybrid and electric models from 2013 to 2022, including the e-tron, A3 e-tron, Q5, A7 and A8. The petitioner withdrew in June 2023. NHTSA closed the case without a finding.
NHTSA DP22005 Opening report (PDF)Closing report (PDF)Jan 27, 2023 to Aug 7, 2023

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings for this model year. See the 2014 Q5 ratings on NHTSA.gov.

SUV AWD, hybrid SUV AWD and SQ5 SUV AWD

Overall4/5

Frontal crash4/5

Side crash5/5

Rollover4/5

Check Before You Buy

A checklist for the 2014 Q5, from its six recalls, eight Audi warranty extensions that may still apply and the problems owners report most.

Confirm the Recalls Were Done

Ask the seller for proof that each of these recalls was repaired.

Coolant Pump May Overheat or Short-Circuit NHTSA 18V229000
Auxiliary Heater Electrical Connector May Melt NHTSA 17V622000
Fuel Pump Flange May Crack Causing Fuel Leak NHTSA 17V298000
Air Bag Inflator May Rupture Due to Corrosion NHTSA 17V001000
Coolant Pump May Overheat and Cause Fire NHTSA 17V002000
Look up the VIN at NHTSA to see all 6 recalls and which are still open.

Ask an Audi Dealer

Ask whether each of these warranty extensions applies to this VIN, and whether the work was done.

AWA-17-02: bridge warranty until 3.0 TDI emissions fix
AWA-18-01: emissions and engine warranty after 3.0 TDI fix
AWA-16-09: 3.0 TDI exhaust gas temperature sensor fault
AWA-19-06: engine water pump failure, 2.0 engine
AWA-21-03: electromechanical steering unit malfunction
AWA-21-04: turbocharger failure
AWA-24-01: high oil use or fractured pistons
AWA-24-04: automatic emergency braking system faults

On the Test Drive

Turn the wheel fully left and right, parked and at low speed. Sticking, notches or stiffness are warning signs.
Ask how often oil is added between changes, and watch for blue smoke at startup.
Check the coolant level and watch the temperature gauge on the test drive.

Ask the Seller

Ask whether any of these were ever repaired, and ask to see the receipts.

Steering
Frame and body structure
High oil consumption
Also ask for the service records, especially oil changes.

Before You Pay

Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you choose.
Decode the VIN to confirm the model year, engine and trim.
Check the title for salvage, flood or rebuilt branding.

What to do next

All Q5 Years →Best years and years to avoid, side by side.Compare With Other Years →Put up to four model years side by side.Find Warranty Extensions →Repairs Audi may still cover for this year.Decode a VIN →Confirm the exact year, engine and trim of a car.