Go here and look at my second post:

https://www.audiforum.ca/q5-q7/56272-drl-dead-6.html

PM me if you want details.

 

Thank you for the link. I checked some other threads as well.
Sadly, Q5 dependability is rather bad... And if some issues may be considered as minor, others - not.

To summaries my quick research:
1) DRL issue on 2009/2010/1011 models – Audi has still not permanently fixed it!
2) Leaking injectors – Audi keeps replacing them over and over again
3) Steering wheel vibration/noise – known issues, no fix available
4) Harsh gear shifting
5) Sunroof issues
And all of these issues were observed on almost brand new cars with very low milege!

Too bad... despite a good look, leading interior quality and well balanced riding, Q5 is out of my list.

 

My friend, before you rule Q5 out, do research on other cars. There is no perfect one out there, you will find out that sooner or later. And I'm talking about higher end bracket. Beside, not every Q5 brakes, that would be unacceptable, all brands have tolerance level and try to operate within it. If you still want something ALMOST bullet proof - go with Honda CRV then....lately my friend who drives one told me that it runs 8 years and counting with no issues...

 

Tomashek said it right, the issues above are "sum" of individual issues that have happened to several Q5s combined. I personally have not had "all" those issues few of them yes, and these are minor issues, light bulb, noises etc.. not a big deal. Compared to other luxury car Q5 is well a head of of the game.

You shouldn't yet rule it out.

 

Nagivator, do you currently own or plan to own a Q5 ?

I agree with Tom, I had a Honda CRV for 7 + years never had a problem until the last 2years of ownership. But let me confirm that the issues I had in the final years, were big. Propellor shaft needed to be replaced (1000$ + installation) Calipers all 4 jammed on regular basis and needed ajusting, Front shocks and rear suspension needed to be replaced.
Conclusion: Over time even the most reliable cars break down. (however the CRV is nowhere close to the quality and performance of the Q5.)

As for the Q5 issues, Leaking injectors, steering vibrations, harsh gear shifting.. if any Q5 owner drives the car at full throttle and abuses the car ( and I mean ABUSE..)as if it was used as a run away car, I would think that eventually the car will break. If you take care of it and know how to treat it well, in my opinion it will spoil you.