Vehicle report
2015 Audi Q5
Free recalls, owner complaints, and NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Audi Q5, plus how to check this specific vehicle before you buy.
The 2015 Audi Q5 has 6 NHTSA recalls on record and 15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Its overall NHTSA crash-test rating is 4 out of 5. Below is the full breakdown, plus how to check this specific vehicle by VIN before you buy in Alberta.
6
Open recalls
15
Complaints
4
Overall safety
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2015 Audi Q5 recalls (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Cabriolet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad and Q5 vehicles. Contact corrosion within the electrical connector for the auxiliary heater may cause the heater wires to overheat or melt.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the auxiliary heater and, as necessary, update the software, free of charge. The Recall began November 27, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 80C5 and 80C6.
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Audi Q5 vehicles. The sunroof drainage system may allow water to soak into the foam surrounding the side head air bag inflator canister resulting in the corrosion of the canister. If this happens, the corrosion can weaken the canister and the inflator could fracture without air bag deployment, propelling fragments into the passenger compartment, striking and causing serious injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator and either coat it or replace it, as necessary, after removing the surrounding foam, free of charge. The recall is expected to began March 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69P1.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 vehicles, 2013-2016 Audi Allroad and Audi A4 vehicles and 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can be blocked with debris from the cooling system, resulting in the pump overheating.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will update the software so that the power supply to the coolant pump is deactivated if the pump becomes blocked with debris, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 19M1.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sedan and Audi Q5 vehicles, 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles and 2013-2016 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can either become blocked with debris from the cooling system causing it to overheat or can short-circuit from moisture within the pump.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the pumps, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number's for this recall is 19N3/19N4. Note: This recall is in additional to the coolant pump software update applied as a remedy under recall 17V002.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Audi Q5 and 2013-2017 Audi Q7 vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump flange if cracks are present. Flanges that do not have cracks will have a protective film applied. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 3, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20Z8. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 16V-660.
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles manufactured January 15, 2015, to January 21, 2015, and 2015 Audi Q5 vehicles manufactured January 13, 2015, to February 3, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with driver and front seat passenger seat-mounted air bag inflators that may rupture in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began July 7, 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-822-2834 or Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69M1 (for Audi) and 69L9 (for VW).
2015 Audi Q5 safety ratings
4
Overall
4
Front
5
Side
4
Rollover
Source: NHTSA NCAP ratings.
2015 Audi Q5 owner complaints (15)
- STRUCTURE
Vehicle failed inspection due to premature rust perforation damage of rear subframe caused by a plastic cover trapping water against the metal. Vehicle otherwise passed inspection.
- STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q5. The contact stated that the rear subframe was extremely rusted and could not pass a safety inspection. The vehicle was driven to the dealer, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 82,351.
- TIRES
The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q5 equipped with Firestone Tires, Tire Line: Firehawk A/S, Tire Size: P235/55/R19, DOT Number: 1RBE793E9. The tires were purchased in 2022. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle, and the rear driver’s side tire had a blowout. The contact's wife was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact was unsure if the tire was replaced or if the vehicle was driven to the residence nearby with the blowout tire still on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a tire specialty shop, where the rear driver’s side tire was replaced. On another occasion, while the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver heard an abnormal sound before rear passenger’s side tire had a blowout. No warning lights were illuminated. A passerby assisted the contact's wife in changing the tire. On another occasion, while the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver’s side front tire had a blowout. The contact changed the flat tire once the vehicle was driven back to the residence. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the inside of the tire, where the bead of the tire meets the rim, was cracked. The contact noticed tire crazing all over the tire, and that the inside of the tires showed deep cracks. The contact stated that the other two tires showed the same failure. The tire manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The tire failure mileage was approximately 130,000. The vehicle failure mileage was unknown.
- POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? EPC light is on, car stalled on highway towed in Audi Dealership Jan/2023, On August 18, 2025 The vehicle experience catastrophic engine failure, electrical issues, coolant system defects,and currently inoperable and safety risk. 2.How was your safety or safety of others put at risk? vehicle stalled on street potentially public safety risk. 3.Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, Audi dealership service center recommendation buy $22,000 for brand new engine . 4.Has the vehicle or component been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Inspected by Audi Dealership Service Center, and State Farm claims representative. 5.Were there any warning lamps, message or other systems of the problem prior to the failure, and when they first appear? When did first appeared a problem EPC light goes off and on January 17, 2023, loss of engine power, oil/coolant leaks, and etc.
- ENGINE
Engine consumed a quarter of oil every 300 miles. The EPC light and engine light illuminated. The vehicle went into limp mode. I had the vehicle towed to a certified mechanic.Vehicle was inspected by a certified mechanic and will need a new engine. Engine only has 85,000 miles and oil was changed every 5000 miles.
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The cooling system failed without warning! As I’m driving on the highway my vehicle began smoking! I smelled a burnt smell! Upon getting off the highway , I noticed my coolant had leaked almost completely out! I check my vehicle every morning before work as I drive through three counties to get to work and my coolant was full as I had just topped it off that morning! Upon inspection it was found from a local mechanic to be the water pump! My truck was fine last month upon getting a n inspection.
- ENGINE
i have had necessary service checks; however, the spark plugs keep getting burned out. the car is barley 10 yrs old i have replaced the spark plugs 4 times this year alone. Its like every 2 months for the last year. this is abnormal
- SUSPENSION
Rear subframe rusted out at only 85,000 miles
- SUSPENSION
2015 Audi Q5 Quattro (all wheel drive). During recent inspection the vehicle was found to have extreme corrosion, cracking, and structural failure of the rear subframe and subframe crossmember. The rear steel subframe is manufactured as an assembly. The rear subframe assembly supports all of the rear suspension components and rear drivetrain and drivetrain components. My vehicle is always garaged and no other corrosion was found during inspection of the entire vehicle. The finding is a manufacturing defect that is only isolated to the rear subframe assembly of the vehicle. Due to the extreme nature of corrosion and cracking found on the subframe assembly this should be considered a high priority warning for Audi Q5 owners. A total failure of all rear suspension and drivetrain components may result.
- ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle: 2015 Audi Q5 2.0T VIN: [XXX] At around 70,000 miles, my vehicle began consuming engine oil abnormally. I received a low-oil warning and had to add 1 quart every 1,000 miles. I first approached an authorized Audi dealer at 75,000 miles, who inspected the vehicle and stated this was “normal for older vehicles” and found no issues. However, the problem worsened rapidly. By 79,000 miles, I visited a second Audi dealer who acknowledged that this was a common problem in this engine type. They quoted me $16,000–$20,000 for a full engine replacement, stating they could not replace pistons alone. At 80,000 miles, my car now consumes 1 quart of oil every 200 miles. The oil warning light comes on frequently. I am forced to carry oil and top off multiple times per week. This is not normal wear for a luxury vehicle with regular maintenance. This condition creates multiple safety risks: •Sudden engine seizure or power loss if oil runs too low, especially while driving at highway speeds. •Loss of steering/brake assist due to oil pressure failure. •Increased fire risk from leaks or overheating. •Frequent roadside stops to add oil, risking exposure to traffic. •Distraction while driving due to monitoring oil levels. •Environmental hazard from oil spills. The engine remains available for inspection. The vehicle has only been inspected by Audi dealerships. Audi should be held accountable for a defect that compromises safety and reliability at relatively low mileage. I urge NHTSA to investigate and take appropriate action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- LANE DEPARTURE
System does no longer work. Audi Montgomery inspected the vehicle and deamed that both side blind spot warning components have failed. People come to trust the system and when it fails they would lane change, not be warned and cause an accident. Dealer comfirmed failed components. Opened a concern with Audi USA and was told I am responsible for repairing the failed system. 6/19/2025.
- SUSPENSION
To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally report a serious safety issue involving my 2015 Audi Q5 TDI (VIN # [XXX] ), which has developed severe corrosion on the rear subframe. I am the original owner of this vehicle, which has 92,700 miles and has been garage-kept and exclusively serviced by authorized Audi dealerships since purchase. On [XXX], following a failed Virginia State safety inspection, the vehicle was inspected by Audi of Chantilly, VA. Their service department confirmed that the rear subframe is cracked due to extensive rust and recommended immediate repair. I have attached both the inspection report and supporting photographs. This is not an isolated case. Numerous Audi Q5 owners have documented similar corrosion on the rear subframe, often attributed to a plastic cover that traps moisture and accelerates rusting. This appears to be a design defect with potentially dangerous implications. As it stands, the vehicle is not drivable. The compromised subframe poses a serious risk of structural failure while in motion, increasing the potential for loss of control, a crash, or injury. The dealership has estimated repairs at over $9,000, which I am currently seeking coverage for through Audi Customer Service. However, Audi has indicated that their corrosion warranty covers only body panels—not subframe components—despite the fact that the defect stems from their design. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q5. The contact stated that there was an abnormal leak underneath the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up as intended. The contact stated that the coolant reservoir was refilled; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was diagnosed on the scene by an independent mechanic, who determined that water pump had failed. The independent mechanic related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V229000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
- ENGINE
Common problem with engine cooling systems and oil systems failing. Failing emissions because of this and overheating with risk of fire. Common problem with the Q5s. Which some of them are recalled but not my 2015 q5 premium for some reason.
- SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
I've reported multiple times to my dealer about the oil comsumption back in 2022 and work was performed on the vehicle in the prior year to fix leak and brake noise issue since approx 2021 on my 2015 Q5 that currently only has 65,000 miles. No warning indicator presents regarding the brakes. However oil indicator and engine light icons display. I'm constantly checking the oil indicator level to see how much is still in the and then add add once it shows thats its extremly low. I have to do this everytime I am about to use the car. This can be dangerous at times since there's no indication that its very low and its not seen unless you go into the "car" section that shows the level, it has no alert display for the level. All required diagnostic and maintenance services have been performed with the dealer. When inspecting the brake issue they always come back with no findings say that no issue could be found, howeve when I'm driving it, it sqeeks and makes a grinding sound all the time. This has been going on for quite a few years. As for the oil consumption issue, this isssue has been in recent years and both times this has been looked into by the dealer I was informed that its not covered under any manufacturers warranty and would cost me approx. $10,000.00 for them to repair it or I could trade it in. This is a very expensive luxury car and at this low milage shouldn't have these types of issue. I've seen on various car sites that both the oil comsumption and piston issue is a known issue with this model Audi and that issue occurs aournd 60,000 miles but was rectified for the models that came after 2015. I wish I had know this before making this purchase. Now the driver seat adjusting panel is broken, this came out of no where about four weeks ago with no warning. I haven't received any recall notifications since my Audi Care coverage expired, not sure why this would stop because I didn't continue this service.
Checking a used Audi Q5 before you buy
The recall, complaint, and safety data above describes the 2015 Q5 in general. To know the condition and history of the specific vehicle you're looking at, check it by VIN. A VIN check shows whether this particular Q5's recalls are still outstanding, and a full history report adds accident, title, and ownership records the data above can't show.
Before you buy a 2015 Audi Q5 in Alberta:
- Run a free VIN check on the exact vehicle for its own recalls and safety data.
- Run an Alberta Personal Property Registry lien search so you don't inherit debt.
- Get an independent pre-purchase inspection.
- If it's a dealer, confirm their AMVIC licence.
See other model years of the Audi Q5, or browse more Audi models.
2015 Audi Q5 — questions and answers
Does the 2015 Audi Q5 have any recalls?+
Our check found 6 NHTSA recalls associated with the 2015 Audi Q5. Check the specific vehicle by VIN to see which remain outstanding, since some may already have been repaired. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
How many complaints does the 2015 Audi Q5 have?+
NHTSA lists 15 owner complaints for the 2015 Audi Q5 in our results. Complaints are problems reported by owners and don't always lead to a recall, but a pattern of similar complaints is worth weighing before you buy.
Is the 2015 Audi Q5 safe?+
The 2015 Audi Q5 has an overall NHTSA crash-test rating of 4. Review the front-crash, side-crash, and rollover ratings above, and pair safety ratings with a mechanical inspection of the specific vehicle.
How do I check a 2015 Audi Q5 VIN?+
Enter the vehicle's 17-character VIN into our free VIN check to see recalls, complaints, and safety ratings for that exact vehicle, then run an Alberta Personal Property Registry (PPR) lien search before you pay.
Are recall repairs on a Audi free?+
Yes. Safety recall repairs are performed at no cost by a franchised Audi dealer, even for a used vehicle and even if you're not the original owner. Confirm the required parts are in stock before relying on the fix.
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