2021 Audi Sq5 Safety Report

2021 Audi SQ5: Low complaint volume, but multiple critical recalls for electrical, suspension, and safety systems.

9Complaints
5Recalls
70/100Reliability Score
1Injuries
Most reported components: Engine And Engine Cooling (1)Power Train,Engine (1)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (1)Electrical System (1)Back Over Prevention (1)Air Bags,Seat Belts (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Steering,Electrical System,Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi Sq5

The 2021 Audi SQ5 presents a mixed safety picture, with a relatively low number of NHTSA complaints but several significant recalls addressing critical safety systems. With only 9 total complaints, 0 crashes, and 1 injury reported, the vehicle appears to have a low incidence of direct consumer-reported safety failures. However, the presence of 5 recalls indicates proactive identification and correction of potential widespread issues by the manufacturer. Key recalls address critical components such as 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' (rearview camera display), 'TIRES' (rear axle misalignment), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM' (gateway control module shutdown leading to reduced engine power), 'SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR' (unsecured child restraint), and 'SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE' (loss of control due to axle misalignment). These recalls highlight potential risks that could increase the likelihood of a crash or injury if not addressed. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for Overall, Frontal, or Side impact, the vehicle received a 4-star rollover rating, which is generally good. The low complaint volume suggests that, once recall remedies are applied, the vehicle's day-to-day safety performance is generally acceptable, but the nature of the recalls points to areas where manufacturing defects could have serious consequences.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Audi Sq5 receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2021 Audi Sq5

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi Sq5:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Gateway Control Module Shutdown
A liquid spill in the rear seat or water ingress can cause the gateway control module to shut down, leading to a sudden reduction in engine power and increasing crash risk, as detailed in recall 21V-936.
High Occasional unknown miles
Rearview Camera Display Failure
A blank rearview camera display can reduce rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash, as described in recall 21V-935. One complaint directly references this issue leading to a minor collision.
High Occasional unknown miles
Rear Axle Misalignment/Lock Nut Failure
Defective rear axle lock nuts can cause misalignment or a loss of control, increasing crash risk, as per recall 21V-937. Another recall (21V-938) also addresses rear axle misalignment due to tire issues.
High Occasional unknown miles
Engine Coolant Pump Failure
Complaints indicate issues with the coolant pump and internal coolant leaks, potentially leading to engine damage if not addressed.
Medium Occasional 71000 miles
Pre-Sense/Automatic Emergency Braking Malfunctions
The pre-sense system can activate unnecessarily, causing seatbelts to tighten unexpectedly, which is reported as a significant safety risk.
Medium Occasional 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 Sq5:

Engine And Engine Cooling 22% of complaints

Issues related to the coolant pump and internal coolant leaks have been reported, specifically at higher mileage.

Electrical System 33% of complaints

Multiple electrical issues, including MMI connectivity problems, comfort module failure affecting various warnings and vehicle operation, and the critical gateway control module shutdown recall.

Back Over Prevention 11% of complaints

A recall and a specific complaint highlight issues with the rearview camera displaying a blank screen, leading to reduced visibility.

Air Bags/Seat Belts 11% of complaints

A recall addresses unsecured child restraint systems due to seat belt retractors, and a complaint mentions persistent 'Safety System Malfunction' lights despite part replacements.

Suspension 11% of complaints

Recalls indicate potential rear axle misalignment and lock nut failures that can lead to a loss of control.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi Sq5

Is the 2021 Audi SQ5 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Audi SQ5 has a low number of direct consumer complaints (9 total) but has been subject to 5 significant safety recalls. These recalls address critical issues like rearview camera failure, electrical system shutdowns leading to power loss, and rear axle problems that could increase crash risk. While its rollover rating is 4 stars, other crash test ratings are unavailable. It's generally safe if all recall remedies have been performed.

What are common problems with the 2021 Audi SQ5?

The most reported issues and recall-related problems for the 2021 Audi SQ5 include electrical system malfunctions (33% of complaints, including gateway control module issues), engine and cooling system problems (22% of complaints, specifically coolant pump failure), and back over prevention system failures (11% of complaints, related to the rearview camera). Suspension and seat belt issues are also noted through recalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Audi SQ5?

Yes, the 2021 Audi SQ5 has 5 active recalls. These include issues with the rearview camera display (21V-935), rear axle misalignment due to tire issues (21V-938), a critical electrical system gateway control module shutdown (21V-936), rear seat belt retractors (21V-939), and rear axle lock nut failures (21V-937). It is crucial to ensure all applicable recall repairs have been completed.

How does the 2021 Audi SQ5 perform in crash tests?

NHTSA provides a 4-star rating for rollover resistance for the 2021 Audi SQ5. However, specific ratings for Overall, Frontal, and Side crash tests are not available from NHTSA for this model year.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Audi SQ5?

When considering a used 2021 Audi SQ5, ensure all 5 recalls have been addressed by checking the VIN with Audi or NHTSA. Pay close attention to the electrical system for any warning lights or malfunctions, check for any signs of coolant leaks, and verify the proper operation of the rearview camera and pre-sense system.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but several critical recalls, ensure all recall repairs are verified as completed before purchasing a 2021 Audi SQ5, and be aware of potential electrical and cooling system issues.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi Sq5

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi Sq5. The data includes 9 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

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.