Audi SQ5
Supercharged V6 with 260 kW. Proven drivetrain for S4/S5 and SQ5 with linear power delivery and good throttle response.
Petrol replaces diesel — faster, but diesel fans are mourning
354 hp TFSI instead of BiTurbo TDI. Quicker in a sprint, but the brutal diesel torque is gone. Consumption notably higher, range shorter, character more generic. Competitive against Macan S and X3 M40i on paper, but the SQ5 community misses the diesel.
Engine Weaknesses 8
Early CWGD units with P-code GP0 (up to production date 06.08.2018) have poor-quality rocker arm rollers. The small bearing rollers can fall out and end up in the oil sump — camshaft and piston damage possible.
Symptoms: Combustion misfire, engine fault light, rough running, clattering noise from cylinder head.
The EA839 water pump is vacuum-controlled. On internal failure, coolant enters the vacuum system and spreads to further engine components. The old 4-bolt pulley is the prime suspect — identifiable if original pump still fitted.
Symptoms: Coolant warning light, coolant loss without external leakage, P0299 (boost pressure too low), 'drivetrain fault', 12V battery no longer charging.
The belt starter-generator (BSG) and the 48V battery can fail, especially on vehicles before 2021 without the protective cover over the control unit. Diagnosis and calibration required after replacement.
Symptoms: '48V system fault' in display, start-stop disabled, no recuperation, rough or delayed starting, limp mode.
Beyond water pump failure, EA839 engines also show coolant loss from seal failures elsewhere in the cooling system. Regular coolant level checks important.
Symptoms: Coolant level drops without visible leakage, overheating warning, coolant smell in engine bay.
Turbocharged version of the EA839 without supercharger, but still direct injection: oil mist from crankcase ventilation settles as coke on intake valves.
Symptoms: Hesitation, power loss at part throttle, cold-start problems, rough idle.
The EA839 CWGD shows elevated oil consumption during spirited driving and high revs from piston rings. Vehicles frequently on track or driven at full throttle are particularly affected.
Symptoms: Regular top-ups required, oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km during spirited use.
The EA839 CWGD responds to worn spark plugs with misfires and elevated fuel consumption. Change interval of 30,000–40,000 km recommended for spirited use.
Symptoms: Hesitation under load, misfire fault codes, increased consumption, slight power loss.
Excessive manufacturing tolerances between injector lines and rail cause petrol vapour leaks. Fuel smell inside the car is the typical symptom.
Symptoms: Petrol smell inside after switching off, especially with a warm engine.
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
KBA recall: stress corrosion cracking can cause elevated play between the control arm and wheel carrier. Affects build years 2019–2021. Free replacement at dealer.
Recall for Q5 FY (production July 2018 to March 2019): faulty brake master cylinders increase stopping distance. Free replacement programme through Audi.
The Haldex rear differential suffers from oil contamination by clutch debris when maintenance is neglected. A differential oil change clears the symptoms. Neglect risks differential damage.
Brake callipers seize especially after prolonged standing. Rear axle callipers are most affected. MOT reports list brake defects as a frequent fault.
Early FY models show MMI faults: faulty Google Earth view, Audi Connect dropouts and failure of the 360-degree camera. Audi has issued service actions and firmware updates.
Reports & Tests
394 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2017–2024). Most reported: Electrical (114), Engine (78), Other (66).