2018 Audi Q5 Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 frequently report power train issues, including sudden loss of power and acceleration, particularly when making turns or during start-up from stop/start functions. Multiple complaints describe incidents where the vehicle unexpectedly shuts off, leaving drivers unable to accelerate or steer effectively, with some cases leading to crashes. These problems are often reported around 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Additionally, some owners experience warning lights for drive system malfunctions and low oil pressure, with symptoms temporarily resolving after engine restarts. Safety implications are notable, with incidents of vehicles moving unexpectedly, including a case of unintended reverse movement and another of the vehicle lurching forward, both resulting in collisions. These patterns suggest potential risks for used car buyers considering this model.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 frequently report issues with the airbag system, particularly involving the passenger airbag warning light and malfunction messages. Typical symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating, intermittent passenger airbag deactivation, and various system alerts and chimes. Complaints often mention these issues starting at mileages around 85,600 to 120,000. Notably, one report involves a crash where airbags did not deploy, resulting in two injuries. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring airbag system malfunctions and their possible safety implications.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving the electric power steering rack. Common symptoms include the steering wheel seizing or locking up, often accompanied by multiple warning lights on the dashboard such as "Steering malfunction! Please stop vehicle" and other system malfunctions. These issues have been reported at various mileages, including at very low mileage around 900 miles, and can result in a complete loss of steering control, posing significant safety risks. Some owners mention that these problems can lead to costly repairs, often exceeding $2,000, and in some cases, the steering failure occurs without any prior warning. Buyers considering a used 2018 Audi Q5 should be aware of these potential steering issues and the associated repair costs.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 report several issues related to the braking system. A recurring problem involves the Audi Pre-Sense system activating unexpectedly, causing sudden braking without any apparent obstruction, as noted in two complaints. Additionally, multiple owners describe unusual noises such as squealing and grinding from the brakes, often at slow speeds or during initial use each day, with some attributing it to potential rotor or caliper issues. One complaint involves a crash where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while the brakes were applied, resulting in a collision. These issues are reported across various timelines, with some occurring soon after purchase, suggesting potential early onset of these problems. Safety concerns are evident, particularly with reports of unintended acceleration and pre-sense malfunctions, which could pose risks in traffic situations.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 frequently report issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, where the vehicle's automatic emergency braking engages unexpectedly. Symptoms described include the system applying brakes without any apparent obstacles, sometimes at highway speeds or during parking maneuvers, leading to potential loss of control or risk of being rear-ended. These incidents are reported across a range of mileages, from as low as 600 to over 31,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as owners note the sudden braking can lead to dangerous situations, particularly in traffic. Additionally, some owners mention related false alerts and sensor malfunctions, with dealers often unable to replicate or resolve the issues.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 report issues related to unintended acceleration and braking malfunctions. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle accelerating without input, even when the brake pedal is depressed, resulting in two crashes, one of which involved an injury. These incidents often occur at low speeds, such as in parking situations. Additionally, there are reports of the Audi Pre-Sense system activating the brakes unexpectedly, bringing the vehicle to a near stop without apparent cause. The complaints span a mileage range from approximately 9,000 to 53,000 miles. The described incidents highlight potential safety risks, including loss of vehicle control and collision, which prospective buyers should consider.

Owners of the 2018 Audi Q5 report several issues with the seat belt system. A recurring problem involves the pre-sense system activating unexpectedly when the vehicle is stationary, causing the seat belt to pre-tighten, which could potentially startle the driver and lead to a loss of vehicle control. Additionally, some owners describe an issue with the passenger seat belt sensor, where an audible beeping occurs unless the seat belt is fastened, even when the seat is unoccupied. Another complaint involves the passenger seat belt locking up and being unable to retract, while one report details the rear driver's side seat belt failing to retract properly, resulting in a child being bruised when the belt twisted and stuck around the waist. These issues are reported at various mileages, with one specific case noted at 60,000 miles. Safety implications include potential injuries and unexpected driver reactions due to the seat belt system's behavior.