2013 Audi Q5

Here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints associated with the 2013 Audi Q5, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options.

The 2013 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury SUV known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and available quattro all-wheel drive. Engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 generating 272 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0T is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0T is also paired with an 8-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Q5’s upscale interior, refined handling, and practicality. Common dislikes often revolve around higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury vehicles and occasional electronic gremlins.

Engine

2.0T (2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.0T engine, particularly in earlier production years, is known for consuming excessive amounts of oil. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between scheduled oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a low oil pressure warning light.
  • Solution: A revised PCV valve or piston ring replacement. Audi offered a service campaign for affected vehicles, sometimes including piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the timing chain tensioner can lead to timing chain slippage, potentially causing significant engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise upon startup, rough idling, and potential engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0T (3.0-liter supercharged V6)

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The 3.0T engine is prone to coolant leaks from various points, including the thermostat housing, water pump, and plastic coolant pipes. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components (thermostat housing, water pump, coolant pipes) and flushing the cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both 2.0T and 3.0T)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly when cold or between certain gears.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset may improve shifting. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings can wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises, especially when going over bumps. Worn bushings can also affect handling and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arms or just the bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per side, depending on whether the entire control arm or just the bushings are replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MMI System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The Multi Media Interface (MMI) system can experience various malfunctions, including freezing, crashing, and displaying error messages. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: A software update or replacement of the MMI control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (software update) to $1,000+ (MMI control unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate erratically due to a faulty window regulator.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Panoramic sunroofs can experience issues such as cracking, leaking, or becoming stuck. The mechanism can also fail, causing the sunroof to become misaligned.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof glass panel, seals, or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screen on the navigation system can delaminate, leading to a hazy or blurry display.
  • Solution: Replacement of the LCD screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Audi Q5, while generally a well-regarded vehicle, does have some common issues. The most concerning and potentially expensive problems relate to the 2.0T engine’s oil consumption and timing chain tensioner issues, as well as the 3.0T coolant leaks. Electrical issues with the MMI system and suspension problems can also add to the cost of ownership. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase. Repair costs can be moderate to high, typical for a luxury vehicle.