2021 Audi Q5 Safety Report
2021 Audi Q5: Excellent Crash Ratings, but Plagued by Electrical, Engine, and Recall Issues
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi Q5
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Audi Q5
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi Q5:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gateway Control Module Failure Water ingress or liquid spills can cause the gateway control module to fail, leading to sudden engine power reduction, stalling, and various electrical malfunctions (e.g., windows, dashboard, brakes). This is covered by recall 21V909000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Failure Engine connecting rod bearings can fail, resulting in engine damage, stalling, and potential oil leaks, increasing the risk of a crash. This is covered by recall 23V063000. |
High | Occasional | 50000-70000 miles |
| Unintended Emergency Braking (Audi Pre Sense) The Audi Pre Sense system can falsely trigger, causing the vehicle to suddenly apply emergency braking without obstacles, leading to abrupt stops and increased crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Transmission Disengagement/Stalling Vehicle can experience sudden transmission disengagement while in motion, behaving as if shifted into neutral, with no accelerator response. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Axle Misalignment/Lock Nut Failure Rear axle misalignment due to a broken lock nut can cause premature tire wear or loss of control, increasing crash risk. Covered by recalls 21V237000 and 21V294000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Shattered Sunroof Sunroof can spontaneously shatter while driving, scattering glass and causing distraction. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Audi Q5:
Frequent complaints about electrical system failures, often related to the gateway control module, leading to various malfunctions including power loss, dashboard issues, and stalling. (12 complaints)
Reports of engine failure, stalling, and issues related to connecting rod bearings and coolant systems. (7 complaints)
Issues include transmission disengagement and shuddering at low speeds or during turns. (5 complaints)
Unintended emergency braking events where the vehicle stops abruptly without an apparent obstacle. (4 complaints)
Premature or uneven tire wear, and sudden tire tread separation, potentially linked to axle misalignment recalls. (2 complaints)
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi Q5
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 safe?
The 2021 Audi Q5 received excellent 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash test ratings from NHTSA, indicating strong occupant protection in collisions. However, it has been subject to 8 recalls and 63 complaints, including issues like sudden engine power loss, unintended braking, and engine failures, which raise concerns about its operational reliability and potential for unexpected safety incidents.
What are common problems with the 2021 Audi Q5?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Audi Q5 involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12 complaints), often related to the gateway control module causing power loss or stalling. ENGINE problems (7 complaints) including failures and connecting rod bearing issues are also common. POWER TRAIN complaints (5) describe transmission disengagement and shuddering, and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (4) issues include unintended emergency braking.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Audi Q5?
Yes, the 2021 Audi Q5 has 8 recalls. These include critical issues such as high-voltage battery overheating (23V660000), engine connecting rod bearing failure (23V063000), rearview camera display malfunction (21V295000), rear axle misalignment (21V237000, 21V294000), and a gateway control module shutdown that can reduce engine power (21V909000).
How does the 2021 Audi Q5 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Audi Q5 performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and a 4-star rating for Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Audi Q5?
When considering a used 2021 Audi Q5, pay close attention to the vehicle's service history, specifically checking if all 8 recalls have been addressed. Inquire about any past electrical issues, especially related to the gateway control module or dashboard malfunctions, and listen for unusual engine noises or transmission behavior during a test drive. Also, check for uneven tire wear which could indicate axle alignment issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2021 Audi Q5's numerous recalls and recurring electrical and engine complaints; ensure all recalls are completed and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi Q5
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi Q5. The data includes 63 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.