2021 Audi Q5 E
Only 26 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 26 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 12 |
| 2021 | 26 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 13 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 26 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 26 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
When I powered on the car, I got a message "Electrical system failure", and was unable to start the car. After multiple tries, the car started, but had the check engine light on.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210614
6 of 26 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210723
4 of 26 total reports mention: engine.
3 of 26 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
Gas gauge stuck. Other Audi gas sensors have been recalled.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240327
3 of 26 total reports mention: forward collision avoidance.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The vehicle automatic emergency braking has engaged over 6 times when no vehicle or other object was in front of the vehicle. The aggressive hard braking has nearly caused rear ending accidents and has also caused a neck injury.
NHTSA ODI report, 20211124
In several instances, my Audi Q5 has erroneously thought there was a road hazard and slammed on the brakes. It was terrifying. Luckily there were not cars close behind or they would have collided with my car.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240523
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Audi Q5 E — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (4 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 E reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q5 E?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q5 E have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.