2021 Audi Q5 E
Only 28 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 28 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 | 28 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 14 |
| 2025 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 28 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 28 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 28 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
5 of 28 total reports mention: forward collision avoidance, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
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
4 of 28 total reports mention: engine.
3 of 28 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
Gas gauge stuck. Other Audi gas sensors have been recalled.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240327
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 forward collision avoidance issues (5 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 25% 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 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.