Last updated: 2026-04-20

2021 Audi Q5
RELIABILITY SCORE: 66/100 (GOOD)

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

Complaint Severity66/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact60/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity86/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

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 sold

Segment avg: 17.5

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

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.

25V0800002025-02-12

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.

23V8420002023-12-13

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.

22V7530002022-10-07

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).

VIN History Report

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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2021 Audi Q5 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 16.4%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

PHEV Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Audi Q5Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based 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

Q5
$928
Category Avg
$807
All Vehicles
$652

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%

after 5 years

Depreciation
50.7%

over the same period

Listings Analyzed
155

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.com

MPG & 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
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Q5 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S7)252927$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.

18
10
8
10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18)POWER TRAIN (10)ENGINE (8)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (6)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)STEERING (3)WHEELS (2)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)Other (10)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

18 complaints

Owners 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.

18 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

10 complaints

Owners 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.

10 complaints total

ENGINE

8 complaints

Owners 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.

8 complaints total
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (6 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

6 complaints

Owners 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.

6 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

Owners 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.

4 complaints total
STEERING (3 complaints)

STEERING

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners 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.

3 complaints total1 crash1 injury
WHEELS (2 complaints)

WHEELS

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total
FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)

VISIBILITY

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total

When Do 2021 Audi Q5 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

0–6,000 milesElectrical system failures
44,000–50,000 milesEngine failures due to metal fragments
9,000–20,000 milesTransmission shudder

Best & Worst Audi Q5 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Audi Q5 Years to Buy

The 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.

Audi Q5 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201860/100Good
201969/100Good
202069/100Good
202166/100Good
202268/100Good
202371/100Good
202470/100Good
202576/100Good
202676/100Good

Audi Q5 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202676/1000Good00
202576/100+6Good015
202470/100-1Good526
202371/100+3Good26
202268/100+2Good839
2021(selected)66/100-3Good16126
202069/1000Good622
201969/100+9Good540
201860/100Good7197

2021 Audi Q5 Reliability by Powertrain

The 2021 Audi Q5 is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.

Reliability comparison across powertrain options
PowertrainComplaintsRecallsIncidents*Crash Rating
Gas63825 out of 5
PHEV6382N/T
Total126164

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?
The 2021 Audi Q5 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 66/100. It is reasonably reliable with 16 recalls and 126 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q5?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Audi Q5 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18 complaints), POWER TRAIN (10 complaints), ENGINE (8 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (6 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q5 have?
The 2021 Audi Q5 has 16 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 expensive to maintain?
The 2021 Audi Q5 has estimated annual repair costs of $928/year, which is $121 more than the luxury midsize SUVs average of $807. With a reliability score of 66/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

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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Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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