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The Audi Q5 is a top choice for a decently-priced luxury SUV. However, the Q5 Audi used can be a bit of a mixed bag. Though there are some great models, there are a handful that have some significant flaws. These issues can be costly. Of course, some of the worst Audi Q5 model years aren’t super common nowadays, but others are much more popular. 

The 2014 Audi Q5 has problems

2014 Audi Q5 in white
2014 Audi Q5 | Evrim Aydin/Anadolu Agency/ via Getty Images

Regarding used Audi Q5 models, the 2014 isn’t among the best. Like others from the lineup, it has a fairly high number of complaints. Despite this, the vehicle has pretty good reliability scores and was even considered the best of the lineup at the time. One of the biggest 2014 Audi Q5 problems is that the engine has a tendency to die suddenly. It is said to have first occurred around 50,000 miles on the odometer, and it’s an expensive problem to fix. 

In addition, this model year of the Q5 is prone to fuel pump issues. In particular, the fuel pump flange cracks more than in other cars. This could lead to a fuel leak. According to Get Jerry, there have also been instances of the vehicle catching fire due to the coolant pump overheating. Like many other models, the 2014 Audi Q5 consumes excessive oil. 

2012 also has significant issues

2012 Audi Q5 from the side
2012 Audi Q5 | Carlos Alvarez/via Getty Images

The 2012 Q5 Audi used is also not one of the best options for a luxury SUV. One of the most widespread complaints about the vehicle is regarding the airbags. Unfortunately, the airbag inflator in this model experienced issues with rupturing due to corrosion. There was a recall for this airbag issue, but all owners didn’t take the necessary steps to fix the malfunction. This means used Audi Q5 models from this time could still have this problem.

Another 2012 Q5 problem is excessive oil consumption. Owners have reported that after around 80,000 miles, the vehicle starts to become a gas guzzler. This problem makes ownership of this car difficult because it adds to maintenance costs and could cause problems if people forget to check the oil. Another problem this luxury SUV has is that the sunroof tends to break with the car in use. Cold weather is said to have been a factor in the sunroof breaking.

The 2013 Audi Q5 model is far from perfect

Audi Q5 front grille
Audi Q5 | Photo by  Graham Crouch/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The 2013 Audi Q5 is another model that isn’t at the top of the list of the most reliable. One of its most complained about maintenance issues is that it continues the SUV’s trend of using excessive amounts of oil. This is particularly true for models with the 2.0-liter turbo engine. Unfortunately, there are also reports of the vehicle producing black smoke when driving due to its oil issues.

The excessive oil consumption issue is said to be a result of piston rings that don’t properly seal the combustion chamber. There was even a class action lawsuit filed that alleged the automaker knew about this problem since around 2012. Not only can this issue cause the vehicle’s extreme use of oil, but it could lead to engine failure.

The 2013 Q5 also has a few other less complained about issues. The SUV experiences loose timing chains, water pump failure, and there are reports of the transmission causing the vehicle to jerk and shake. Overall, the Audi Q5 is a good used luxury vehicle. However, it has some model years that are not worth the trouble despite the Q5’s stylish looks.

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