Audi Q5
Common-rail TDI from the EA189 family with 125 kW, structurally more robust than the predecessor PD. All vehicles carry the mandatory software update burden from the VW diesel scandal — post-update EGR and DPF issues occur more frequently. EGR cooler and EGR valve are known wear items.
Worry engine — costly weakness looms
170 hp 2.0L with a known issue: mandatory software update VW diesel scandal (EA189). The risk of expensive repairs overshadows any driving pleasure.
Engine Weaknesses 7
Like older 2.0 TDI engines, the CAHA carries the risk of a worn hex drive shaft in the balance shaft module. Sudden total failure without warning is possible.
Symptoms: Sudden oil pressure warning light, automatic engine shut-off, engine damage usually already present at point of diagnosis.
All EA189 engines are affected by the VW emissions scandal and must receive the mandatory software update via recall. Vehicles without the update face impoundment. Some vehicles show increased EGR wear after the update.
Symptoms: Recall letter from the manufacturer, vehicle listed in KBA recall portal. Post-update: some report power loss and increased DPF regeneration demand.
The EGR cooler and EGR valve on the EA189 become sooty and can develop internal leaks. Coolant can enter the intake area. Problems are exacerbated after the mandatory dieselgate software update.
Symptoms: Black smoke from exhaust, power loss below 2,000 rpm, increased fuel consumption, white smoke when coolant enters intake, engine warning light.
The common-rail injectors on the CAHA carbon up on short-trip driving and with poor fuel quality. Contamination from base metals in fuel lines accelerates needle wear.
Symptoms: Rough running on cold start, rough idle, poor throttle response, increased fuel consumption, black exhaust plume, extended cold-start cranking.
The DPF on the EA189 is overloaded by short trips, frequent cold starts, and faulty EGR operation. After the dieselgate update the DPF regeneration rate increases, leading to greater oil dilution risk.
Symptoms: DPF warning light illuminates, raised oil level from fuel dilution, frequent regeneration cycles, power loss in limp mode.
The CAHA diesel shows DPF problems common to all CR TDI engines of this generation when used predominantly on short trips. Regeneration is not completed.
Symptoms: DPF/particulate filter warning light, power reduction, raised oil level from fuel dilution.
On the CAHA 2.0 TDI the EGR valve carbons up at higher mileages. The flap sticks, the engine runs rough and goes into limp mode.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, power loss, hesitation at low rpm, limp mode.
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
On 3.0 TDI models (03–12/2012) oil mist can damage the brake booster diaphragm, significantly reducing braking performance. Recall required.
On Q5 models from 2011 the panoramic roof glass can spontaneously shatter in severe frost (below -20°C) and send fragments into the interior.
From about six years of age, control arms and coil springs show elevated wear that is flagged at MOT. Heavy bodywork and all-wheel drive accelerate bush wear.
The S-Tronic dual-clutch gearbox tends to harsh judder on pull-away and delayed response, especially in urban traffic. Clutch wear from 80,000 km possible.
Bei Fahrzeugen mit über 150.000 km zeigen Antriebswellen erhöhten Verschleiß. Besonders Gelenkwellen-Manschetten reißen und führen zu Fettaustritt und Lagerschaden.
On pre-facelift models (before 2012) the DRL module control units fail. Usually individual segments or entire LED strips are affected.
Reports & Tests
673 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2008–2017). Most reported: Engine (200), Airbags (147), Fuel System (100).