Last updated: 2026-04-20

2021 Audi Q5 Reliability Report
The 2021 Audi Q5 scores 66/100 ("Good"). With 16 recalls and 126 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
16
Complaints
126
Complaint Rate
20.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$928
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,550–$2,750
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18)
- POWER TRAIN (10)
- ENGINE (8)
Should You Buy the 2021 Audi Q5?
At 66/100, the 2021 Audi Q5 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.
Owners log 126 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (36). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2022 Audi Q5, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2020 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 2021 Audi Q5 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 16 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18)
- POWER TRAIN (10)
Recall Overview
16
recalls on record
The 2021 Audi Q5 has 16 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
20.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
0
Fires
4
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Audi Q5 Recall Details
16 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Audi Q5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Audi Q5, and 2022 A7 E Hybrid Electric PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
Consequence
A high-voltage battery that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install advanced diagnostic software as the final remedy, anticipated to be available in the second quarter of 2025. Volkswagen will monitor available online vehicle data and contact owners as necessary, to advise them not to charge the vehicle until the battery can be replaced. For vehicles in which online data is unavailable, owners are advised not to charge their batteries until the final remedy becomes available. Repairs will be performed free of charge. This will be a Phased recall. Phase 1 will include Interim letters 2022-2023 model year vehicles. Phase 2 will include Owner letters 2021-2024 model year vehicles, and Phase 3 will include Interim letters 2022-2023 model year vehicles. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed February 28, 2025, and May 7, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 93AA. This recall expands and replaces previous NHTSA recall number 24V898.
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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q5, 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas FL, and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.
Consequence
A damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. If the engine failure causes an oil leak, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace an affected engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 13i4 (VW) and 13i5 (Audi).
Buying a used 2021 Audi Q5? Check its history first
Every 2021 Audi Q5 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 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 Q5Repair 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.
Audi Q5 Resale Value
The Audi Q5 is estimated to retain about 49.3% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Audi Q5 model overall and is not specific to the 2021 model year.
- Value Retained
- 49.3%
- Depreciation
- 50.7%
- Listings Analyzed
- 155
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Audi Q5 depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Plug-in Hybrid
25–27 MPG
Running cost: $3,500–$3,700/yr
Fuel + repair
23–25 city / 28–29 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q5 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S7) | 25 | 29 | 27 | $2,550 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Audi Q5.
Inspect gateway module under rear seat for water damage
Test infotainment system and backup camera for functionality
Check for premature tire wear and verify tire warranty coverage
Examine sunroof for any signs of cracking or previous repairs
Ensure forward collision avoidance system operates correctly
Verify engine oil and coolant levels for signs of leaks or contamination
2021 Audi Q5 Common Problems by Component
126 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
18 complaintsOwners report that the 2021 Audi Q5 experiences frequent issues with the gateway control module, often leading to complete vehicle shutdowns. Complaints frequently mention warning lights for brake, electrical, and steering failures, followed by a loss of power, inability to restart, and windows moving independently. These issues typically occur within the first few months of ownership, with some vehicles having less than 6,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple owners describe losing control in traffic or being stranded in dangerous locations. Buyers should be aware of potential water intrusion affecting the gateway module, especially given reports of the module being located under the rear seat where it is vulnerable to spills and moisture.
POWER TRAIN
10 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the 2021 Audi Q5's power train, particularly involving the gateway module located under the rear seat, which can corrode due to moisture exposure, leading to complete vehicle shutdowns. Complaints often describe sudden loss of power and engine failure while driving, with some incidents occurring at higher speeds, posing safety risks. Additionally, several reports mention transmission problems, including disengagement and shuddering, with some owners experiencing these issues as early as 9,000 miles. The vehicle's design, particularly the placement of sensitive components, appears to contribute to these failures, and owners note significant safety implications, such as loss of control and potential collisions.
ENGINE
8 complaintsOwners report multiple issues with the 2021 Audi Q5's engine, notably involving water-related electrical failures and engine component malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention that water spills in the rear seat area can cause the vehicle to enter a "panic mode," leading to electrical failures that affect steering and engine operation, with incidents occurring at low mileage and within weeks of purchase. Additionally, some owners describe engine failures due to metal fragments in the oil, often at higher mileages around 44,000 to 50,000 miles, with potential connections to a recall for machining debris. These issues can result in sudden vehicle shutdowns, posing safety risks such as loss of steering control or engine power, potentially hazardous on highways. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring problems and their implications for vehicle reliability and safety.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (6 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
6 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 frequently report issues with the vehicle's forward collision avoidance systems, particularly the Audi Pre Sense feature, which falsely activates emergency braking without clear cause. Typical symptoms include sudden braking at high speeds or while stationary, forceful seatbelt retraction, and unexpected system engagement, often leading to near-collisions and physical discomfort. These incidents occur at various speeds and under different conditions, with some reports highlighting repeated occurrences over several months. Safety implications are significant, as unexpected braking can lead to rear-end collisions or physical injuries to occupants. Additionally, improper calibration of ADAS systems following repairs is noted, which may compromise the functionality of safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane change assist. These patterns suggest potential risks for buyers considering a used Audi Q5.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues with the vehicle's backup camera and MMI screen, which can randomly stop working or display incorrectly, with no prior warning signs, affecting both reversing and forward driving. Complaints frequently mention the sunroof unexpectedly exploding and the climate control buttons popping off, potentially posing a safety hazard if small parts become loose inside the vehicle. Additionally, some owners describe unintended emergency braking triggered by the Audi Pre Sense system, occurring without clear obstacles, thus increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. These issues appear to occur in relatively new vehicles, with problems reported as early as within the first year of ownership.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues related to steering, with one complaint involving a crash and injury. Common symptoms include the steering wheel locking up during driving, as well as forceful and sudden jerking to the left. One owner describes a steering failure alongside multiple system errors due to a failed Gateway control module, previously subject to a recall. These issues can lead to a complete loss of steering control, posing significant safety risks. The problems are reported at various times, with one incident occurring after a recall repair was deemed insufficient, highlighting potential ongoing concerns for used car buyers.
WHEELS (2 complaints)
WHEELS
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues related to wheel components, specifically involving a recall for the rear axle trailing arm lock nut and unexpected tire wear. One owner indicates difficulty with a dealership refusing to perform the recall repair unless additional paid services are scheduled, while another owner describes premature tire wear at approximately 13,000 miles, which was not covered under warranty by Audi or the tire manufacturer, Kumho. These complaints highlight potential concerns with dealership service practices and tire durability, with no safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control reported. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially regarding recall service conditions and tire warranty coverage.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues involving the fuel system, specifically related to fuel leakage. One complaint describes a gasoline leak resulting from the gas tank being pierced by a piece of metal on the road, which poses a potential fire or explosion hazard. Another owner mentions gasoline dripping from the right rear passenger area while the vehicle is parked, attributed to a faulty fuel pump as diagnosed by a service center. This issue is accompanied by a fuel system warning light and a previously replaced gas cap gasket. While specific mileage is not mentioned, the safety implications include risks of fire due to fuel leakage. These reports suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding fuel system integrity.
FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues related to the fuel system, primarily involving the fuel tank and gauge. One owner describes a situation where the plastic fuel tank was damaged after driving over debris, resulting in a fuel leak. Another owner reports a malfunctioning fuel gauge that inaccurately indicates a full tank even when nearly empty, with this issue occurring around 5,000 miles. These complaints highlight potential safety risks due to fuel leakage and the inaccurate fuel level reading, though no crashes or fires are reported. These issues appear relatively early in the vehicle's life, between 5,000 and 9,000 miles.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q5 report issues with the sunroof shattering unexpectedly while driving. Complaints frequently mention a loud booming sound followed by the sunroof glass breaking, with one incident occurring at approximately 4,000 miles and another at around 51,000 miles. In both cases, the shattered glass posed a safety risk by entering the vehicle's cabin, although no crashes or injuries were reported. These incidents suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning driver distraction and injury from falling glass. Buyers considering a used 2021 Audi Q5 may want to inquire about the sunroof's condition and any related repairs.
When Do 2021 Audi Q5 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Audi Q5 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Audi Q5 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Audi Q5 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (76/100) and 2023 (71/100).
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.
Audi Q5 Reliability Score Trend
Audi Q5 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 66/100 for older years.
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 |
| 2026 | 76/100 | Good |
Audi Q5 Reliability Compared to Other Years
2021 Audi Q5 Reliability by Powertrain
The 2021 Audi Q5 is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 63 | 8 | 2 | 5 out of 5 |
| PHEV | 63 | 8 | 2 | N/T |
| Total | 126 | 16 | 4 |
NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q5?
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q5 have?
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Audi Q5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Audi Q5.
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