This page covers 6 recalls, 22 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2020 Audi Q5.
24–27 mpg combined
8.7–9.8 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Complaints for the 2020 Audi Q5 spread across several systems, with engine and electrical issues each drawing the most reports. On the engine side, owners describe sudden loss of power or the vehicle becoming inoperable without warning, sometimes requiring a tow. Electrical complaints are notable for their range of symptoms, owners report warning lights illuminating unexpectedly, wipers and windows activating on their own, and in at least one case the steering wheel moving without driver input, leaving the car unable to shift out of park. Steering complaints round out the top reported systems, though the volume is modest. A single report mentions a child seat harness concern. Automatic emergency braking not engaging during a stop is mentioned in one report as well, resulting in a collision.
22
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
3
With Injuries
By System
The 2020 Audi Q5 has 6 recalls, the most serious involving a broken rear axle lock nut that can misalign the rear axle and cause a sudden loss of vehicle control.
A separate but related rear axle issue can cause premature or uneven tire wear that raises crash risk over time. On the structural side, liquid from a spill in the rear seat or water entering through a body seam underneath the vehicle can reach the gateway control module and shut it down, causing an abrupt drop in engine power while driving. The front seat frame and backrest adjuster may also have inadequate welds, meaning the backrest can break in a rear-end collision and reduce the protection the seat provides to the occupant. There is also a charging concern: an onboard charging cable can overheat and increase the risk of fire. Finally, the rear wheel arch cover trim can loosen and detach from the vehicle, becoming a hazard for other drivers on the road.
At a glance
What can fail
When charging at 100% using the 220V/240V portable charging cable, some home outlets lack sufficient capacity, causing the outlet or cable to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the 220V/240V charging cable with a new one equipped with a temperature sensor at no cost. Use only 110V charging or public stations until replacement.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear axle alignment was not inspected after previous recall repairs were completed, which could result in improper wheel positioning and uneven tire wear.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect rear axle alignment, adjust if needed, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Liquid from a spilled drink in the rear seat or water seeping through an underbody seam can reach the gateway control module and cause it to shut down.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal the underbody seam to prevent liquid entry.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The lock nut securing the trailing arm on the rear axle can break due to stress corrosion, potentially affecting rear suspension stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the lock nuts and associated bolts if needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Front seat frame and backrest adjuster welds may be incomplete, potentially causing structural failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect front seats and replace seatback frames as needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear wheel arch cover trim can loosen and fall off because the clips holding its front section may fail.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the four clips that secure the front of the rear wheel arch trim at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
