Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

Good day.
We are looking at a 2011 Q5 and were wondering how well it fires up on these lovely -25 degree mornings that we get here in Calgary since it doesn't seem to have a block heater. I have seen the "pad" type of heater which can be attached, and would consider one of those if need be.

Cheers,
Ken

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

Ken,
these cars are tested for our climate a block heater is not required. The car starts no problem at all, so you should not even worry. Welcome to the forum, you should check out the Calgary Audi Club as well.

Also if you use the search button this topic has been covered numerous times, and you can read on some of the debates in order to make your decision. I personally do not see the point for one, if it was required then Audi would have it as an option.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

They are made in Germany, so they know what cold is. No worries.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

In Winnipeg, they have a Manitoba package that includes an engine pan heater.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

Only for the Q5 3.2 though. Pan heater can't be installed on the 2.0T's without modifying the outside of the pan. I've had a Q5 3.2 through two winters and have yet to plug it in.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

They didn't say it was only for the 3.2 and it is listed as a option for the 2.0 on their price list. I'll have to ask when I place my order.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

They likely add the package to every car, regardless of model. It probably includes winter mats and splash guards (on applicable cars). Where there's a will, there's a way. Modifying (read: grinding) the outside shape of the oil pan to give a flat surface to attach a pan heater is possible. Without modifying it, there is no place to attach/install the pan heater.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

You're right, they said basically every car they sell gets that package. So, they must "make it work".

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

Or they don't install the pan heaters on the 2.0T's. That's how it's done in Regina. Not sure I'd want someone messing with the design of the pan. Either way, it will be interesting to hear what they do.

Re: Q5 Cold winter starts?
 

Watch this vid:

https://www.audiforum.ca/q5-q7/55132...come-audi.html