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2014 Audi SQ5

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2014 Audi SQ5 is a performance-oriented version of the Q5 compact SUV, boasting a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 354 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque. It was only offered with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. Owners generally praise the SQ5 for its strong acceleration, sporty handling, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include higher than average maintenance costs, some electrical gremlins, and a firm ride due to the sport-tuned suspension.

Engine

3.0L TFSI Supercharged V6

  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The water pump, often the plastic version, can crack or leak, leading to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage. A common symptom is a coolant warning light or visible coolant leak near the front of the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump with an updated version (ideally with a metal impeller) and thermostat.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • PCV Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve, integrated into the valve cover, can fail, causing vacuum leaks, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and potentially oil leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover assembly (as the PCV valve is integrated).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Supercharger Coupler Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The supercharger coupler, a small component within the supercharger, can wear down and fail. This can cause a rattling noise, especially at idle, and a reduction in supercharger boost.
    • Solution: Replace the supercharger coupler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Mechatronic Unit Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can experience electronic failures. This can cause erratic shifting, harsh shifting, failure to shift, or getting stuck in a gear. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the Mechatronic unit will be present.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the Mechatronic unit. In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue, but often replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds or during acceleration. It can also cause the transmission to slip or fail to engage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: While the 2014 SQ5 didn’t typically come standard with air suspension, some may have it as an option or through aftermarket modifications. If equipped, the air suspension can experience leaks in the air struts, compressor failures, or control module issues. This can lead to a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, or a non-functional suspension system.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty components (struts, compressor, valve block, control module).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The power window regulator can fail, causing the window to not go up or down. You may also hear clicking or grinding noises when attempting to operate the window.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation/MMI System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The Multi Media Interface (MMI) system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. Common problems include display issues, navigation problems, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the MMI control unit or display screen.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Tail Light Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: LED tail lights can fail, or individual LEDs within the tail light assembly can burn out.
    • Solution: Tail light assembly replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per assembly.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof can become stuck, noisy during operation, or leak. The sunroof track can become clogged or damaged.
    • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, or replacement of damaged components (motor, tracks, seals).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Heated Seat Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Heated seats not working, or only partially heating, is a common issue. The heating element can burn out or the control module can fail.
    • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Audi SQ5, while a performance-oriented and luxurious SUV, can suffer from a range of issues. Engine-related problems such as water pump and PCV valve failures are relatively common and can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the Mechatronic unit, can also be expensive. Electrical problems with the MMI system and lights can be annoying and require diagnosis. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering a used 2014 Audi SQ5. Addressing these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the severity and the specific component requiring attention.

Audi, SQ5
Audi SQ5 2014
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