Hey all,
Im interested in getting a 2014 q5 3.0 TDI and have read about common issues with the engine but was wondering if there are any major and/or expensive issues to be aware of and if possible how to inspect for them at time of purchase and/or prevent them in the future. I am looking at high mileage ones with 100-200k miles.
Any info would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

 

the 3.0t of that generation suffers from leaky waterpumps, bad thermostats and bad PCV. If you get one with all of those three replaced, you’re golden. Those engines are pretty good and they dont suffer from oil consumption issues like most others, but thats not to say you might get one that does. An easy way to check if its eating oil is the excess carbon buildup on the exhaust or the best way is to remove one coil pack, take out one spark plug and inspect it. If its oily and has buildup, its a bad engine. If its dry with a bit of black carbon its good. You can find spark plug health photos online and compare.

 

Thanks so much for taking the time to answer this. This answer was great and I’m going to take your advice. Just wanted to make sure bc you mentioned 3.0t… are you referring the the diesel tdi engine? Or the gas 3.0 turbo?

 

sorry audi is a bit confusing. The 3.0T is actually the 3 litre supercharged gasoline engine. No idea why they went with 3.0T. I guess its like AMG’s C63 not being 6.3 litres haha its actually 6.2 and the CLA45 is not 4.5 litres but 2.0 litres

 

No problem… so do any of the above issues apply to the tdi?

 

same issues with the tdi.

 

Hi. New to the forum and first post.

Got a 2015 Q5 Tdi with 180,000 km. Second owner and bought it at 90,000 km. It's been very reliable and a blast to drive. Not sure what know issues are associated with the Tdi but we haven't experienced any real problems. Particulate sensor I think and the EGR cooler replaced, both covered under the dieselgate warranty a couple years ago.

Good luck with your purchase.

 

Yeah i have to confess. Diesel engines are quite reliable. Lots of torque too.

 

bad thermostats and bad PCV. If you get one with all of those three replaced, you’re golden. Those engines are pretty good and they dont suffer from oil consumption issues like most others, but thats not to say you might get one that does.