Last updated: 2026-03-04

2020 Audi Q5 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2020 Audi Q5 scores 69/100 ("Good"). With 6 recalls and 22 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
6
Complaints
22
Complaint Rate
4.4
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$928
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
9%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
6 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2020 Audi Q5?
The 2020 Audi Q5 scores 69/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 22 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to unknown or other (5). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2021 Audi Q5, which scored 3 points lower. See also the 2019 Audi Q5 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Low major repair risk (9%)
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Frequent unscheduled repairs
- Above-average recall count
Compare 2020 Audi Q5 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 6 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- ENGINE (3)
- STEERING (2)
- SEAT BELTS (1)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)
- WHEELS (1)
- Chest Clip (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
Recall Overview
6
recalls on record
The 2020 Audi Q5 has 6 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
4.4
per 10k soldSegment avg: 18.2
Safety Incidents
Crashes
3
Fires
1
Injuries
3
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Audi Q5 Recall Details
6 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Audi Q5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
Consequence
An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
TIRES, SUSPENSION
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
Consequence
Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STRUCTURE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles. A liquid spill in the rear seat, or water ingress from an insufficient body seam underneath the vehicle may allow liquid to penetrate the gateway control module, causing it to shutdown.
Consequence
A gateway control module shutdown will suddenly reduce engine power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal an underbody seam as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90S9.
2020 Audi Q5 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.4%
Safety Technologies
PHEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Audi Q5 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$928
vs $807 avg for luxury midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
1.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
9%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2020 Audi Q5
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Check for unresolved recalls, especially related to the gateway control module
- Test the electrical system for sudden shutdowns or warning lights
- Inspect for signs of coolant or oil consumption issues
- Verify the functionality of the turbocharger electronic waste gate
- Ensure the hood latch mechanism is secure and functioning properly
- Test the sunroof for structural integrity and signs of stress
Check Any 2020 Audi Q5's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 Q5 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Audi Q5 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2020 Audi Q5 Common Problems by Component
22 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several significant issues with the 2020 Audi Q5, primarily involving sudden sunroof explosions and critical electrical failures. One complaint mentions a sunroof exploding without external impact while driving on the highway. Multiple owners describe complete electrical failures, often linked to a faulty gateway control module, which left vehicles inoperable and unable to shift into neutral. These issues have resulted in long delays for parts, with some owners waiting months without resolution. Safety implications are notable, with two reported crashes, one involving unintended acceleration into a house and another due to non-engagement of automatic braking, leading to a total vehicle loss. These patterns suggest potential risks for used car buyers, particularly concerning unresolved recalls and part availability.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Audi Q5 report several issues related to the electrical system, with multiple complaints highlighting sudden vehicle shutdowns. These incidents often occur without warning, with drivers noting the inability to use hazard lights or restart the vehicle, even in dangerous situations such as on expressways. Complaints frequently mention these issues occurring at relatively low mileages, such as around 2,300 miles, and include symptoms like dashboard warning messages and abrupt system failures. Additionally, some owners describe problems with the car's safety features, such as unexpected activation of the Audi Pre Sense system, leading to abrupt braking. These electrical failures pose significant safety risks, including potential accidents due to loss of vehicle control.
ENGINE
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Audi Q5 report several engine-related issues. One owner experienced a significant safety incident involving a fire originating from a malfunctioning turbocharger electronic waste gate, which resulted in the vehicle being totaled and causing smoke inhalation injuries. Another owner reports consistent coolant consumption of approximately 300mL every 800-1000 miles, with dealership inspections failing to identify any faults. A third owner describes persistent engine oil consumption, requiring replenishment every 2 to 3 weeks over a seven-month period, with no resolution despite involving the dealership and manufacturer. These complaints highlight issues with engine component reliability, with potential safety implications in cases of fire.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2020 Audi Q5 involving steering and vehicle control, often tied to electrical or computer malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly, leading to a loss of power steering and power brakes, with the car becoming difficult to control. Typical symptoms include the vehicle rolling or stopping suddenly, emergency brakes engaging without warning, and all electronics shutting down. These issues are noted at low mileages, such as around 150 miles and within the first few months of ownership. Safety implications are significant, as the sudden loss of control could be hazardous, especially if the malfunctions occur at higher speeds or in traffic.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintANY TIME MY APPLE CELL PHONE SE MODEL IS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, THE SEAT BELT UNBUCKLED ALARM INTERMITTENTLY IS ACTIVATED ON THE DASH. I SEE THIS AS A SAFETY ISSUE PARTICULARLY IF A CHILD WAS IN THE BACK SEAT, SINCE IT COULD BE REALIZED AS A FALSE ALARM, BUT ACTUALLY BE A TRUE UNBUCKLING SOMEWHERE IN THE VEHICLE. THIS OCCURS WITH THE VEHICLE IN MOTION, BUT THE PHONE STATIONARY (IE. NOT TRAVELING OVER ROAD BUMPS, POTHOLES OR CORNERING) AND IS UNPREDICTABLE. THIS HAS BEEN OCCURRING SINCE I TOOK POSSESSION NOV 30 LAST YEAR AND WAS NOT ABLE TO BE RECTIFIED BY THE DEALERSHIP OR BY THEM CONTACTING AUDI CENTRAL FOR GUIDANCE. ALL THAT WAS DONE WAS RESETTING THE ELECTRONICS TO FACTORY SETTINGS WHICH DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. ONLY SUGGESTION WAS NOT TO ALLOW THE PHONE TO SIT IN THE SEAT?
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintSafety-relatedIncident occurred as I was waiting third in line to add fuel to my Audi. Usually when I am in a long wait I put my vehicle in neutral and to move forward then I have to put my foot on brake to change gears. In this incident I did just that when car in front moved up, but the car suddenly accelerated forward quickly and hit with force the car in front. I put car in reverse to back off with intent to shut down car to exit in order to assess damage and provide insurance information. Instead when I went into reverse the car shot uncontrollably backward 20-30 feet at high speed striking another car entering the fueling area. In either the forward motion and or the backward motion of car did the sensors or brake assistance system deploy. The car will be inspected by both Audi America and also by a third party appointed by my insurance provider.
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintThe hood has opened 3 different times with no warning while driving down the road.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintStopped on the road, the rear window exploded with a very loud boom. I pulled over and talked to the driver behind me who also pulled over and asked if he saw anything, he said no, only heard the boom. We looked in the back of the car and no projectile or foreign object. I moved to a nearby parking lot and pushed as much of the broken glass into the car as I could so it wouldn't fall off on the road. There were no cracks or defects identifiable before hand. The car was clean and any issues would have been visible. There was no warning of the explosion. I have brought the car in to the dealer, Fletcher Jones in Chicago.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image was intermittently blank or distorted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and to a second dealer, Santa Monica Audi (1020 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401), on several occasions; however, the dealers were unable to duplicate the failure. The dealers replaced the rearview camera twice; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the second dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.
WHEELS (1 complaints)
WHEELS
1 complaintMy dealership informed me that my tires were feathering at the edges and wearing unevenly. I found information that there was a recall for this problem. There was a recall (4215) that stated there was a misalignment in the suspension creating the uneven wearing. This included my car model. I need information regarding why my car isn't listed for the recall. The car does have a weird skip in making hard turns.
When Do 2020 Audi Q5 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Audi Q5 Years
Best Audi Q5 Years to Buy
The best Audi Q5 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (71/100) and 2024 (70/100).
Audi Q5 Years to Avoid
The worst Audi Q5 year is 2018 with a score of 60/100, primarily due to electrical system (60) issues.
See full Audi Q5 years-to-avoid analysis →Audi Q5 Reliability Score Trend
Audi Q5 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 69/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
Audi Q5 Reliability Compared to Other Years
2020 Audi Q5 Reliability by Powertrain
The 2020 Audi Q5 is available with 2 powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 22 | 6 | 4 | 5 out of 5 |
| PHEV | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/T |
| Total | 22 | 6 | 4 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Audi Q5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Audi Q5?
How many recalls does the 2020 Audi Q5 have?
Is the 2020 Audi Q5 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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