2019 Audi Q5
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 0 |
| 2009 | 31 |
| 2010 | 99 |
| 2011 | 143 |
| 2012 | 168 |
| 2013 | 89 |
| 2014 | 105 |
| 2015 | 99 |
| 2016 | 77 |
| 2017 | 42 |
| 2018 | 202 |
| 2019 | 50 |
| 2020 | 25 |
| 2021 | 71 |
| 2022 | 22 |
| 2023 | 43 |
| 2024 | 20 |
| 2025 | 42 |
| 2026 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
24% of complaints: electrical system — 12 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Severe consequential safety defect involving total anti-lock braking system (ABS) failure stemming from a manufacturer recall defect and volatile CAN-bus network conditions during repair.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260902
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
My vehicle does a few things that are dangerous. Number 1 the emergency brake went on automatically when I was driving the parkway in New Jersey telling me to watch my surroundings.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231211
Also filed under EXTERIOR LIGHTING
16% of complaints: engine — 8 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
When driving in extreme cold (ambient temperatures of -35 or colder) and I reach a speed of 50mph or higher, my engine fails. The dealership refuses to resolve this issue.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231014
14% of complaints: steering — 7 distinct reports on file.
CRASH14% of complaints: service brakes — 7 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Went to Mavis on Weber Rd in Bolingbrook, IL for front brake replacement on June 6, 2026.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260719
12% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH INJURYSAFETY TIMELINE
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.
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.
Campaign 19V277000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
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.
Campaign 19V416000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. In the event of a crash deploying the passenger's frontal air bag, the instrument panel carrier may break due to incorrect welding.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the instrument panel and the passenger frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began August 16, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
Campaign 19V473000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
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.
Campaign 19V737000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles.
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.
Campaign 21V947000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2019 Audi Q5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V277000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 19V416000 (wheels) has been completed.
- Verify recall 19V473000 (air bags, electrical system) has been completed.
- Verify recall 19V737000 (structure) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V947000 (electrical system, structure) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2019 Audi Q5 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2019 Audi Q5 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Audi Q5?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2019 Audi Q5 have?
5 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.