2019 Audi Q5 VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report several recurring electrical system issues with the 2019 Audi Q5. A common problem involves the rear cross traffic alert and Audi pre-sense systems generating false positives while reversing, causing sudden braking and vehicle jerks. Additionally, multiple owners describe malfunctions with the passenger airbag system, including the airbag activating or deactivating incorrectly, which poses a safety risk. Complaints also frequently mention water ingress damaging the control modules, leading to complete vehicle shutdowns and inoperability. These issues often occur without warning and can result in loss of control, particularly concerning when driving at higher speeds. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they may impact the vehicle's reliability and safety.

STEERING

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 frequently report power steering failures, often accompanied by a "Steering Malfunction! Please stop vehicle" warning message. These failures occur at a range of speeds, from as low as 10 mph to highway speeds, with mileages as low as 8,000 miles and up to 19,457 miles. Symptoms include a sudden loss of power steering assistance, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle, especially at low speeds. One report involves a crash where the vehicle veered off the road in icy conditions, suggesting potential safety risks associated with these steering issues. Additionally, there are complaints about the active lane keeping assist system unexpectedly deactivating, which owners find problematic and potentially dangerous.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 frequently report issues related to the powertrain, with common symptoms including abrupt jerking, unexpected gear shifts, and significant loss of speed. Complaints often mention dashboard warnings such as check engine lights and drive system malfunction alerts. These issues typically occur within a mileage range of 24,000 to 50,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with one report involving a crash where the vehicle moved forward on its own and collided with a building, though no injuries were reported. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they suggest potential reliability concerns with the vehicle's powertrain system.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 report issues with the vehicle speed control system, particularly involving the adaptive cruise control (ACC) and traffic sign recognition features. One complaint describes unintended deceleration when the ACC adjusted to a lower speed limit detected by the traffic sign recognition system, leading to a sudden brake application that required driver intervention to prevent a potential rear-end collision. Another owner details frequent false alerts from the active lane assist system, which they find unusable and distracting. Additionally, a mechanical issue is reported where the waste gate actuator in the turbocharger fails, causing an overboost condition that necessitates replacing the entire turbocharger unit. These problems typically occur at varying mileages, with significant safety implications noted in the case of sudden deceleration at highway speeds.

SEAT BELTS

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 report issues related to rear seat design and seat belt functionality. Two complaints involve rear-end collisions where rear seat passengers sustained significant lower back injuries, which owners attribute to the built-in lumbar support in the rear seats. Both incidents occurred while passengers were wearing seat belts, with ongoing back pain reported. Another complaint describes difficulty releasing the seat belt, requiring a costly replacement part. These issues highlight potential safety concerns, especially in rear-end collisions, and may be relevant for buyers considering a used model.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 4 injury reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report several distinct issues with the 2019 Audi Q5. One owner describes an unexpected sunroof explosion at highway speeds, with no apparent external cause, posing potential safety risks from shock and glass debris. Another owner details a clock spring failure, indicated by an airbag light activation shortly after servicing, with repair costs mentioned at $1600, questioning its prevalence in Audi vehicles. A third owner reports a persistent "DRIVER SYSTEM MALFUNCTION" warning linked to a turbocharger booster issue, noted by a mechanic as a common problem in Audi cars. These complaints do not specify mileage but highlight potential safety and cost concerns for prospective buyers.

ENGINE

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 report several engine-related issues. A common problem involves engine failure when driving in extreme cold at speeds of 50 mph or higher, though no safety incidents like crashes or loss of control are mentioned. Another issue is the failure of hydraulic engine motor mounts around 45,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of turbocharger failures, with one owner citing a costly repair at approximately $3,556, and noting that their vehicle is not covered under a related class settlement. These complaints suggest potential engine reliability concerns that prospective buyers should consider, especially in cold climates or at higher mileages.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q5 report issues with the exterior lighting, specifically concerning the rear lights. Complaints frequently mention warnings for faulty left and right tail lights, brake lights, and center brake lights, resulting in a complete loss of rear lighting while driving, which poses a significant safety risk. One owner describes the issue occurring beyond the warranty period, requiring a paid diagnostic despite an existing technical service bulletin. Another owner reports a defective right backup light within the warranty period, with diagnostics indicating the need to replace the entire rear light housing due to internal malfunction. These issues are noted to occur both during and shortly after the warranty period, with potential safety implications due to diminished vehicle visibility.