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Audi · Known Issues

2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Problems: 9 Known Issues

2021 model year · 640+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 640+ owner reports, the 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback has 9 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are PHEV High-Voltage Battery Overheating / Fire Risk (Recall 25V080000) ($0-$0 repair), Front Assist Phantom Braking / False Emergency Braking (ADAS) ($0-$1,500 repair), 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Rearview-Camera Recall 91DZ / NHTSA 22V742, 2021-2022 Audi Q5 Sportback Gateway Recall 90S9 / NHTSA 21V947 and 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback Engine Recall 13i5 / NHTSA 22V753. The most commonly reported issue is Rear Brake Squeal and Premature Pad Wear with 640 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Q5 Sportback Electrical3
  • Q5 Sportback Engine2
  • Q5 Sportback Safety/Recalls1
  • Q5 Sportback Cooling1
  • Q5 Sportback Brakes1
  • Q5 Sportback Body/Panels1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical3
  • Engine2
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Cooling1
  • Brakes1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ

All 9 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS202620252024202320222021

On the 2021-2024 Audi Q5 Sportback 2.0T TFSI e plug-in hybrid, on Q5 55 TFSI e quattro plug-in hybrid models, defective Samsung SDI high-voltage battery cells/modules can overheat and present a fire risk, even when parked or charging. Affected vehicles were built between August 2021 and December 2022. NHTSA recall 25V080000 covers 2021-2024 Q5 PHEV (TFSI e) models. As an interim measure Audi pushed a software update to monitor battery temperature, and owners of unmonitored vehicles were told not to charge until the final remedy.

This issue also affects: Volkswagen ID.4

Common Symptoms

  • Battery overheating warning
  • Reduced/disabled charging
  • Hybrid system warning message
  • Burning smell
  • Fire risk

How to Fix

Audi installs advanced diagnostic/monitoring software as the final remedy and replaces individual battery modules or the entire high-voltage pack where defective cells are detected, free of charge. Affected owners should follow the do-not-charge guidance until inspected and confirm recall status by VIN.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback, nHTSA campaign 22V742 / Audi 91DZ covers certain 2021 Q5 Sportback vehicles. A software issue can display a blank or black screen instead of the rearview-camera image when Reverse is selected, reducing rear visibility. This campaign does not establish that the virtual-cockpit instrument cluster requires replacement. Eligibility is VIN-specific.

Common Symptoms

  • Blank or black display instead of the rearview-camera image

How to Fix

Check the VIN and campaign-completion history with Audi or NHTSA. The free remedy updates the infotainment-unit software. Until repaired, use mirrors and direct observation with extra care while reversing. Do not order a replacement instrument cluster or generic scan tool from this summary.

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NHTSA Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2021-2022 Audi Q5 Sportback, nHTSA campaign 21V947 / Audi 90S9 covers certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback vehicles. A rear-seat liquid spill or water entry through an insufficient underbody seam can reach the gateway-control module and cause it to shut down, suddenly reducing engine power. This is not a universal mild-hybrid battery or start/stop failure. Eligibility is VIN-specific.

This issue also affects: Audi A6, Audi S7

Common Symptoms

  • Multiple control-system warnings
  • Sudden reduction in engine power

How to Fix

Check the VIN and campaign-completion history with Audi or NHTSA. The free remedy installs a protective gateway-module cover and seals the underbody seam when necessary. If multiple warnings appear or engine power drops, move out of traffic safely and arrange dealer inspection; do not order a 12-volt battery from this card.

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NHTSA Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, nHTSA campaign 22V753 / Audi 13i5 covers certain 2021-2023 Q5 Sportback vehicles. Damaged connecting-rod bearings can lead to engine failure and a stall; an associated oil leak can also increase fire risk. Eligibility is VIN-specific and the campaign does not mean every engine in those years is defective.

Common Symptoms

  • Severe engine noise or knocking
  • Engine warning or oil leak
  • Engine stall

How to Fix

Check the VIN and campaign-completion history with Audi or NHTSA. Dealers inspect eligible vehicles and replace an affected engine when necessary at no charge. If the engine develops severe knocking, warning messages, smoke, oil leakage or a stall, stop safely and arrange dealer recovery rather than continuing to drive.

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NHTSA Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback 2.0T TFSI 45 TFSI (EA888), audi's EA888 2.0 TFSI engines are prone to elevated oil consumption. Low-tension oil-control piston rings with small drain-back holes can become clogged with carbon, trapping oil on the cylinder walls where it burns. German owners on motor-talk's Q5 FY forum report roughly 0.5 L consumed per ~7,500 km, and many owners are forced to top up between services. Direct injection compounds the problem with intake-valve carbon buildup over time.

Common Symptoms

  • Frequent low oil level / top-ups
  • Blue exhaust smoke
  • Oil warning light
  • Fouled spark plugs
  • Burning oil smell

How to Fix

Confirm consumption with a documented Audi oil-consumption test. Remedies range from PCV/oil-separator service and updated piston rings to, in severe cases, piston/ring replacement; walnut-blasting addresses associated intake-valve carbon. Owners should monitor oil level frequently between service intervals as a safeguard.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $4,000

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback, q5 owners report the Front Assist / pre sense automatic emergency braking system triggering sudden, forceful braking at speed with no real obstacle present ('phantom braking'), creating a rear-end collision risk. Conversely, some report the ADAS failing to give pre-sense warnings when a genuine hazard exists. Complaints are logged with NHTSA across 2021-2025 model years and are linked to radar/camera sensor or software calibration issues.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden unprovoked braking at speed
  • False collision warnings
  • Missing pre-sense alerts
  • Front Assist fault message
  • Brake jerk on highway

How to Fix

Have the dealer scan for ADAS faults and apply any available radar/camera control-module software updates and sensor recalibration; check for and clear obstructions/misalignment of the front radar. Persistent cases may require sensor replacement. Document incidents and file an NHTSA complaint, as ongoing investigations can drive a recall.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2021-2024 Audi Q5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI, audi TSB 2071515/1 covers 2021-2024 Q5 Sportback vehicles with a 2.0L TFSI engine when coolant loss, a visible leak or the coolant warning lamp can be assigned to the coolant pump. Audi warns that an apparent level drop can instead follow incomplete bleeding during production or prior repair, so the leak must be located precisely.

This issue also affects: Audi A5, Audi SQ2, SEAT Ateca

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant loss or visible coolant leak
  • Coolant warning lamp illuminated

How to Fix

Document the suspected leak, clean and dry all coolant traces, fill the system correctly and reassess after driving a few miles. If no fresh leak returns, continue observing without replacing parts. If leakage recurs, replace only the component causing it under the exact VIN, engine and part criteria. Confirm current coverage with Audi; do not order by model year alone.

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NHTSA Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
Community reported
640 owners

On the 2021-2026 Audi Q5 Sportback 2.0T, the Q5 Sportback rear brakes develop persistent squealing, especially at low speeds and during light braking. The OEM brake pads have a metallic compound that resonates against the rear rotors. Additionally, the electronic parking brake auto-applies frequently, causing accelerated rear pad wear. Rear pads may wear out by 20,000-25,000 miles vs. the expected 40,000+.

This issue also affects: Audi A5, Audi Q3, Audi Q5

Common Symptoms

  • High-pitched squealing from rear brakes at low speed
  • Rear brake pads worn significantly more than fronts
  • Grinding noise when brakes are cold
  • Brake dust buildup on rear wheels significantly more than front
  • Parking brake warning light appearing intermittently

How to Fix

Replace rear brake pads with aftermarket ceramic compound pads that eliminate the metallic resonance squeal. Apply brake pad shims and caliper slide pin lubricant. Have the electronic parking brake calibrated via scan tool to reduce unnecessary auto-apply frequency. Replace rotors if they show scoring or are below minimum thickness.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

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Based on 640 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence640 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback, the panoramic sunroof develops rattling noises at highway speeds and wind noise around the leading edge seal. The sunroof glass deflector can also come loose or break. More noticeable in cold weather when seals contract.

This issue also affects: Audi A3, Volkswagen Atlas, Volkswagen Arteon

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling at highway speed
  • Wind noise from sunroof area
  • Creaking over bumps
  • Water drip at headliner edge

How to Fix

Clean and lubricate sunroof rails and seals with Krytox or silicone grease. Adjust sunroof alignment via dealer. Replace wind deflector if cracked. In some cases, the sunroof cassette requires re-indexing via scan tool.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $400

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

ENGINE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Q5 Quattro and Q5 Sportback Quattro vehicles. The cylinder head cover screws may have been improperly tightened.

Campaign #25V29400007/05/2025

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q5, 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas FL, and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.

Campaign #22V75300007/10/2022

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2025 Q5, Q5 Sportback, SQ5, and SQ5 Sportback vehicles. The driver and front passenger seat belts may have been manufactured incorrectly, and fail to properly restrain occupants during a crash.

Campaign #26V26600024/04/2026
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Audi Q5 Sportback problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 640+ owner reports, the 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: PHEV High-Voltage Battery Overheating / Fire Risk (Recall 25V080000), Front Assist Phantom Braking / False Emergency Braking (ADAS), 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Rearview-Camera Recall 91DZ / NHTSA 22V742. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Audi Q5 Sportback reliable?

The 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback has 9 known issues documented across 640+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: PHEV High-Voltage Battery Overheating / Fire Risk (Recall 25V080000) and Front Assist Phantom Braking / False Emergency Braking (ADAS) and 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Rearview-Camera Recall 91DZ / NHTSA 22V742 and 2021-2022 Audi Q5 Sportback Gateway Recall 90S9 / NHTSA 21V947 and 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback Engine Recall 13i5 / NHTSA 22V753. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Audi Q5 Sportback problems?

Repair costs for known Audi Q5 Sportback issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, PHEV High-Voltage Battery Overheating / Fire Risk (Recall 25V080000), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2021-2024 Audi Q5 Sportback PHEV High-Voltage Battery Overheating / Fire Risk (Recall 25V080000)?

On Q5 55 TFSI e quattro plug-in hybrid models, defective Samsung SDI high-voltage battery cells/modules can overheat and present a fire risk, even when parked or charging. Affected vehicles were built between August 2021 and December 2022. NHTSA recall 25V080000 covers 2021-2024… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback Front Assist Phantom Braking / False Emergency Braking (ADAS)?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 640+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022 Audi A6 Sedan, A4 Sedan, Q5, and Q5 Sportback vehicles. The semiconductor inside the engine control unit may short-circuit and cause an engine stall.

Campaign #22V36800023/05/2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles. A liquid spill in the rear seat, or water ingress from an insufficient body seam underneath the vehicle may allow liquid to penetrate the gateway control module, causing it to shutdown.

Campaign #21V94700008/12/2021

+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

Q5 owners report the Front Assist / pre sense automatic emergency braking system triggering sudden, forceful braking at speed with no real obstacle present ('phantom braking'), creating a rear-end collision risk. Conversely, some report the ADAS failing to give pre-sense warnings… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Rearview-Camera Recall 91DZ / NHTSA 22V742?

NHTSA campaign 22V742 / Audi 91DZ covers certain 2021 Q5 Sportback vehicles. A software issue can display a blank or black screen instead of the rearview-camera image when Reverse is selected, reducing rear visibility. This campaign does not establish that the virtual-cockpit ins… Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2022 Audi Q5 Sportback 2021-2022 Audi Q5 Sportback Gateway Recall 90S9 / NHTSA 21V947?

NHTSA campaign 21V947 / Audi 90S9 covers certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback vehicles. A rear-seat liquid spill or water entry through an insufficient underbody seam can reach the gateway-control module and cause it to shut down, suddenly reducing engine power. This is not a universal… Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback Engine Recall 13i5 / NHTSA 22V753?

NHTSA campaign 22V753 / Audi 13i5 covers certain 2021-2023 Q5 Sportback vehicles. Damaged connecting-rod bearings can lead to engine failure and a stall; an associated oil leak can also increase fire risk. Eligibility is VIN-specific and the campaign does not mean every engine in… Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback Excessive Engine Oil Consumption (2.0 TFSI EA888)?

Audi's EA888 2.0 TFSI engines are prone to elevated oil consumption. Low-tension oil-control piston rings with small drain-back holes can become clogged with carbon, trapping oil on the cylinder walls where it burns. German owners on motor-talk's Q5 FY forum report roughly 0.5 L… Repairs typically run $300-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2021-2024 Audi Q5 Sportback 2021-2024 Audi Q5 Sportback Coolant-Pump Leak TSB 2071515/1?

Audi TSB 2071515/1 covers 2021-2024 Q5 Sportback vehicles with a 2.0L TFSI engine when coolant loss, a visible leak or the coolant warning lamp can be assigned to the coolant pump. Audi warns that an apparent level drop can instead follow incomplete bleeding during production or… Severity: medium.

What is the 2021-2026 Audi Q5 Sportback Rear Brake Squeal and Premature Pad Wear?

The Q5 Sportback rear brakes develop persistent squealing, especially at low speeds and during light braking. The OEM brake pads have a metallic compound that resonates against the rear rotors. Additionally, the electronic parking brake auto-applies frequently, causing accelerate… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: low.

What is the 2021-2025 Audi Q5 Sportback Panoramic Sunroof Wind Noise and Rattle?

The panoramic sunroof develops rattling noises at highway speeds and wind noise around the leading edge seal. The sunroof glass deflector can also come loose or break. More noticeable in cold weather when seals contract. Repairs typically run $50-$400. Severity: low.