2019 Audi Q5 Safety Report
2019 Audi Q5: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Recurrent Steering, Engine, and Brake System Recalls and Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Audi Q5
Reliability Score
The 2019 Audi Q5 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Audi Q5
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Audi Q5:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Master Cylinder Defect Recall issued for a potentially short brake master cylinder casting, which could lead to a sudden loss of brakes. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Gateway Control Module Shutdown Recall for liquid spill or water ingress causing gateway control module shutdown, leading to sudden reduction in engine power. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Passenger Airbag Inflator Module Damage Recall for instrument panel carrier potentially damaging the passenger's frontal airbag, reducing protection in a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Steering Malfunction/Loss Of Power Steering Multiple complaints about sudden loss of power steering, making the vehicle difficult to maneuver, especially at speed. |
High | Occasional | 19000-45000 miles |
| Turbocharger Failure Several reports of premature turbocharger failure leading to loss of engine power and check engine lights. |
Medium | Occasional | 48000-50000 miles |
| Engine Motor Mount Failure Complaints about defective hydraulic engine motor mounts causing engine shaking and potential collapse while driving. |
Medium | Occasional | 45000-50000 miles |
| Unintended Braking/Forward Collision Avoidance Malfunction Reports of the vehicle applying full braking unexpectedly or the 'Audi Pre Sense' system activating without clear obstacles. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Transmission Lag/Catastrophic Failure Complaints of significant lag during acceleration, almost causing accidents, and instances of catastrophic transmission failure. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Audi Q5:
Six complaints related to steering issues, including sudden loss of power steering and malfunction warnings.
Two complaints specifically about engine issues, including turbocharger failure and engine mounts.
Three complaints related to vehicle speed control, including unintended braking and acceleration lag.
Two complaints related to service brakes, including a recall for master cylinder and reports of brake failure.
Two complaints related to powertrain issues, including transmission failure and lag.
One complaint about passenger occupant detection system (PODS) malfunction and a recall for airbag inflator module.
Two complaints regarding defective tail lights and backup lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Audi Q5
Is the 2019 Audi Q5 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Audi Q5 received excellent 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash test ratings, with a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has 41 owner complaints, 5 crashes, and 6 injuries reported to NHTSA, alongside 5 safety recalls addressing critical components like brakes, airbags, and engine power, which indicate potential real-world safety concerns despite strong crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2019 Audi Q5?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Audi Q5 include steering malfunctions (6 complaints), various engine and powertrain problems like turbocharger failures and defective motor mounts, and vehicle speed control issues such as unintended braking. There are also recalls for the brake master cylinder, electrical system gateway control module, and passenger airbag inflator module.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Audi Q5?
Yes, the 2019 Audi Q5 has 5 recalls. These include issues with the electrical system's gateway control module (risk of reduced engine power), structure (rear wheel arch cover detachment), airbags (passenger frontal airbag inflator module damage), wheels (wheel arch cover detachment), and service brakes (brake master cylinder casting defect leading to potential sudden loss of brakes).
How does the 2019 Audi Q5 perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Audi Q5 performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Audi Q5?
When considering a used 2019 Audi Q5, pay close attention to the steering system for any unusual noises or stiffness, check for engine warning lights or signs of power loss (potentially indicating turbocharger or motor mount issues), and ensure all recall repairs have been completed, especially those related to brakes and the electrical system. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2019 Audi Q5's significant recall history and recurring owner complaints regarding steering, engine, and brake systems; ensure all recalls are addressed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Audi Q5
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Audi Q5. The data includes 41 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Audi Q5 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.