Midnight

Greetings All,

I had pretty much decided on the Q5 after doing a lot of research and a few test drives, but joined this group to find out about reliability because I live 2 hours from the nearest Audi dealer. After reading here about many many problems with the Q5, I'm having serious second thoughts.

I know that no complex mechanical system is failure-proof, but am really surprised about the 2.0TFSI oil consumption and all the other problems listed here. I have a seven year old turbocharged Outback and have never, ever had to even top up the oil, though I change it every 6k. Having said that, my Outback did have injector problems over several months that one dealer was unable to solve. So I took it to a different dealer, who identified the issue and solved it right away. Unfortunately, there is only one Audi dealer within the 2 hour radius.

To get to the point, I already knew about Q5 reliability problems and the KBB site identifies significant repair costs in years 4 and 5, but folks on this site are talking about numerous problems up front. Even if my new Q5 were under warranty, should I risk having to drive 2 hours to get to the dealership and 2 hours back (at a total cost of $200 for each trip) to have multiple problems resolved with this car?

This might be an Audi love-in site, but please respond honestly, factually, and frankly.

Many thanks in advance!

jfo

Is it a new Q5? The oil consumption issue seems to be mainly with the 2009 and perhaps some 2010 models, due to a bad batch of rings and /or pistons. I have had my Avant for just over 1 year and in the 1st 8,000km used about .33 L of oil. Keep in mind that you are going to read about the problems, and not hear from those with no issues.
I too live about 2 hrs from a dealer in Vancouver. I have not experienced a single issue in 14 mths of ownership. I do my own oil changes, etc and will only go to the dealer for expensive warranty work, should it be needed. So far, I haven't had so much as a rattle to worry about and love the car....my first Audi.
I'd get an Avant though!

Midnight

Thanks. Yes, a new one. I agree, folks without problems won't necessarily speak up about their non-problems.

AF Site Team

Hi Midnight, enjoy your stay :)

theedge111

If you like the Q5 and it's a new one with warranty then I wouldn't let the 2hrs away thing concern you.

I've owned some form of Audi vehicle since 2001 and live two hours away from the nearest dealership also. I'm in a small town, and always schedule my service around other events so it's nice to get to the city lol.

The one time I did have an "emergency (2002 TT ) my car died on the side of the road. I had the full warranty and the dealership sent out a flat bed truck to bring my car up to them for repairs. Cost me nothing.