2008-2017 · 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol (178-230 hp)
Popular premium compact SUV with quattro all-wheel drive. The 2.0 TFSI engine in early models (2009-2012) is notorious for excessive oil consumption from defective piston rings and timing chain tensioner failures that can grenade the engine. Audi faced multiple class action lawsuits and issued service campaigns. Models from 2013 onwards have improved tensioners and piston rings but still require vigilant maintenance. Direct injection causes carbon buildup requiring walnut blasting every 60,000-80,000 km. Avoid 2009-2011 unless oil consumption fix is documented. Best buy: 2013-2017 with full service history.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€1,200 - €2,500/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€750-1,200
Risk buffer
€450-1,300
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Timing chain tensioner failure€1,500 - €10,000
Tensioner loses pressure overnight, causing cold start rattle; catastrophic failure can grenade engine · more· less
The timing chain tensioner in 2009-2013 Q5s can wear prematurely. Symptoms include rattling noise during cold starts, particularly in first 30 seconds. The tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. Audi faced multiple class action lawsuits for models between 2008-2013. If the chain skips teeth, it causes valve-to-piston contact and complete engine destruction requiring €7,000-10,000 for engine replacement. Timing chain replacement with tensioner, guides, and sprockets costs €1,500-2,500. This is valid for 2009-2012 Q5 2.0 TFSI models. Updated tensioners were introduced in 2013 but the issue persists at lower rates. Listen carefully for ANY rattle on cold start.
Early models burn 1 liter per 1,000 km due to defective piston rings; expensive engine-out repair required · more· less
The 2.0 TFSI engine in 2009-2012 Q5s has an inherent design fault causing excessive oil consumption. Defective piston rings allow oil to leak into combustion chambers where it burns. This is most prevalent on 2010-2014 models, typically becoming apparent around 60,000 miles. Oil consumption of 1 liter per 1,000 km is common. The problem causes scoring and grooves in cylinder bores, worsening the issue and eventually leading to engine failure. Stage 2 repair involves removing the engine, replacing pistons, rings, and connecting rods at approximately €5,000-6,000 at independent shops, €9,000 at Audi dealers. If cylinders are damaged, full engine replacement is required at €9,500. Audi issued service campaign TPI 2 installing new pistons and rings. In US, class action settlement extended warranty to 8 years/80,000 miles. Avoid 2009-2012 unless this fix is documented. 2013+ models have improved rings but still monitor oil level.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€500 - €1,200
Direct injection causes carbon deposits; walnut blasting required every 60,000-80,000 km · more· less
The 2.0 TFSI uses direct fuel injection which delivers fuel directly into combustion chambers. Unlike port injection, fuel never passes over intake valves, so detergent additives don't clean them. Carbon deposits accumulate causing reduced performance, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and hesitation. This affects 100% of direct injection TSI engines over time - it's not if, but when. Symptoms typically appear around 60,000-80,000 km. Walnut shell blasting costs €500-800 at independent specialists, €1,200-1,500 at Audi dealers. The procedure involves removing intake manifold and using crushed walnut shells to blast carbon off valves. Preventive maintenance: occasional spirited driving and premium fuel with detergents help delay buildup. Budget for this every 60,000-80,000 km as routine maintenance.
Water pump and thermostat failure€600 - €1,400
Electric water pump fails between 70,000-100,000 km; thermostat housing gasket deteriorates · more· less
The 2.0 TFSI uses an electric water pump integrated with thermostat housing. Failures are common between 70,000-100,000 km. The gasket between water pump and thermostat deteriorates allowing coolant leaks. Sometimes the plastic housing itself cracks as it ages. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. VW/Audi faced a class action settlement for water pump failures in EA888 TSI/TFSI engines. Water pump replacement costs €400-600 for parts plus approximately 4-6 hours labor. Audi dealers strongly recommend replacing thermostat whenever water pump is changed, adding €300-500. Total repair: €600-900 at independent shops, €1,200-1,400 at dealers. Consider upgrading to aluminum water pump instead of plastic OEM replacement for improved longevity.
Turbocharger failure€1,200 - €2,700
Early turbos (2009-2012) have loose wastegate rod; failure from oil contamination or actuator sticking · more· less
Early 2009-2012 2.0 TFSI turbos had issues with loose wastegate rod between boost diaphragm and internal wastegate causing premature failure. Turbo actuator tends to stick if car is driven too gently or only short trips as carbon builds up. Symptoms include EPC light, limp mode, whistling noises, or sluggish acceleration. Average turbo lifespan is 100,000-125,000 km under normal conditions. Turbocharger replacement costs €700-900 for aftermarket unit or €1,200-1,500 for OEM, plus 4-5 hours labor at €75-150/hour. Total: €1,200-1,800 at independent shops, €2,200-2,700 at dealers. If only actuator is faulty (common), specialist repair costs €500-600 without full turbo replacement. Regular oil changes with correct VW 507.00 spec oil and occasional spirited driving help prevent actuator carbon buildup.
7-speed S-Tronic (DL501) has mechatronic and clutch pack failures; pre-2013 models worst affected · more· less
The 7-speed S-Tronic (DL501) transmission in early Q5s suffers from mechatronic circuit board faults, clutch pack wear, and DMF (dual mass flywheel) failure. Problems typically appear between 40,000-80,000 km. Pre-2013 models had higher failure rates; 2013+ B8.5 update improved reliability. Symptoms include jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or transmission warning lights. Mechatronic unit replacement costs €2,500-3,600. Full gearbox replacement can reach €5,500-9,000 at dealers. Heat and improper service intervals kill internal components - Audi's cooling design is inadequate. Manual transmission Q5s are significantly more reliable. If buying S-Tronic, verify 50,000 km transmission fluid changes were performed, ask for VCDS diagnostic scan, and ensure EPB (electronic parking brake) reset procedure was done correctly during brake services.
Control arm bushings and ball joints€400 - €1,000
Factory bushings last 70,000-100,000 km; integrated ball joints mean full arm replacement · more· less
Control arm bushings and suspension links wear around 60,000-80,000 km causing clunks, vague steering, or knocking sounds over bumps. The 2009-2015 Q5 has ball joints integrated into control arms - they cannot be replaced separately. Factory bushings typically last 70,000-100,000 km. Front lower control arm replacement costs €350-700 per side including labor and alignment. Full suspension refresh (all upper and lower control arms) can reach €1,000-2,000. Independent Audi specialists charge €300 parts + €350 labor including alignment. Dealers quote €1,600+ for both sides. Lower-priced aftermarket kits are available with all control arms bundled. Recommend replacing tie rod ends and sway bar links simultaneously if they show wear.
PCV valve/breather system failure€150 - €500
PCV valve diaphragm fails causing oil consumption and rough idle; sometimes mistaken for piston ring issue · more· less
The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system separates oil from crankcase gases. When the PCV valve/separator module fails, symptoms include increased oil consumption (1 liter per 2,000 km), engine dying at idle, rough running, and strong suction on oil cap with engine running. The PCV/oil separator module costs €160-230 and takes 20-30 minutes to replace on most 2.0 TFSI engines. Total repair: €150-300 at independent shops. Some owners mistake PCV failure for piston ring issues - always diagnose PCV first as it's far cheaper. Upgraded aftermarket PCV repair kits replace only the diaphragm instead of entire assembly, saving money. The crankcase breather pipe (part 06E103207AP) also contains an inline check valve that can fail. Use only genuine VW/Audi parts or quality aftermarket - cheap clones fail quickly.
Intake manifold flap motor failure€350 - €900
Swirl flaps bind or motor fails around 60,000-80,000 km; causes rough running and fault codes · more· less
Approximately 10-15% of Audi 2.0 TFSI owners report intake manifold flap issues within first 100,000 km, typically around 60,000-80,000 km mark. The swirl flaps bind or the actuator motor fails causing rough running, reduced power, and intake manifold fault codes. New intake manifold costs €350-450, plus gaskets/o-rings €100-120, and 2 hours labor. Total repair: €600-800 at independent shops, €900-1,200 at dealers. Some owners opt for ECU remap to delete swirl flaps without physical removal, but this increases emissions and will fail MOT/inspection. Alternative: have manifold removed and cleaned at dealer which can restore responsiveness. Gen1 TSI engines (pre-2012) had more frequent manifold issues than Gen2 (2013+) which have improved design.
Sunroof drain clogs causing water leaks€100 - €9,000
Drain holes clog, tubes burst, water damages comfort control module; €9,000 if module destroyed · more· less
Sunroof drain holes clog with debris causing water to backup, burst drain tubes, and leak into interior. The rear tubes pass through compartments containing the expensive comfort control module which has NO water protection. When water reaches the module, repair costs escalate: €25 parts + 10 hours labor (€2,300) to replace tubes requiring full headliner removal, plus €6,500 for comfort control module re-wiring (20 hours labor). Total: €8,000-9,000 at dealerships. Early detection and drain cleaning costs under €100-300 depending on sunroof type. Audi often refuses warranty coverage classifying clogs as "external forces beyond their control." DIY prevention: with sunroof open, pour hot water into channels at each corner - puddles should appear below A and B/C pillars. Use speedometer cable to clear clogs. Check drains annually.
Electric parking brake motor failure€350 - €1,400
EPB motors in rear calipers fail, sometimes from improper VCDS reset during brake service · more· less
The electronic parking brake (EPB) uses electric motors at each rear wheel to engage/disengage brakes. Motors have limited lifespan and can fail completely or exhibit unusual behavior like failing to release. Electric motor replacement in brake caliper costs €500-600 at independent shops. Dealer motors cost €1,400 plus €260 minimum diagnosis. Check wiring harnesses for corrosion before replacing motors. Important: EPB module is very sensitive to low voltage - battery charger MUST be connected during any rear brake work. When shops replace rear pads without properly performing EPB reset procedure with VCDS (relearning end-stops via "Basic Setting"), the system can malfunction. Find mechanic with VCDS tool to follow correct EPB service procedure. If EPB warning appears after brake service, often just needs proper VCDS reset, not motor replacement.
Ignition coils and spark plugs€180 - €450
Coils fail from heat damage causing misfires; can damage catalytic converter if ignored · more· less
Ignition coils subject to heat damage and electrical overload can partially or completely fail. Symptoms include check engine light (solid or flashing), rough idling, vibrations, poor fuel economy, hard starting, power loss, or surging. Spark plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 km depending on quality. Spark plug replacement costs €180-300, ignition coil replacement €130-190 per coil. Failing coils causing misfires allow unburned fuel into catalytic converter potentially causing permanent overheating damage (€800-2,000 to replace). When one coil fails, replace all four as others typically fail soon after. Use OEM or quality aftermarket coils - cheap coils fail quickly. Dealer pricing can reach €450+ for all four coils plus plugs. Independent shops charge €250-350. Check coils/plugs if check engine light flashes - do not continue driving.
High-risk vehicle requiring specialist knowledge and budget
The Audi Q5 8R 2.0 TFSI has numerous well-documented expensive failure modes. Early models (2009-2012) have catastrophic timing chain and oil consumption issues requiring engine-out repairs or replacement. Even improved 2013+ models need carbon cleaning, have turbo/DSG concerns, and are expensive to maintain. This is NOT a vehicle for buyers seeking Toyota/Lexus-level reliability. Budget €2,000-4,000 annually for maintenance and repairs. Independent Audi specialist essential - dealer costs are prohibitive. Manual transmission far more reliable than S-Tronic. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and complete service history absolutely critical.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Audi dealer or authorized specialist records absolutely essential. Verify oil changes every 10,000 km maximum with VW 507.00 spec oil. Check for timing chain replacement, oil consumption service campaign, and carbon cleaning.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 4mm), tire age (date codes - replace if over 6 years), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
MUST start engine completely cold. Listen carefully for ANY rattling noise in first 30 seconds - timing chain issue. Record video with sound.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Inspect wheel arches and underbody.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds to reach full operating temperature. Test acceleration, braking, steering feel.
Specific for this vehicle
CRITICAL: Cold start timing chain noise test
Engine must be completely cold (overnight). Start and listen for rattling/clattering noise in first 30 seconds. Any rattle indicates timing chain tensioner failure - walk away or negotiate €2,000-3,000 off price for immediate repair. This is THE most important check.
Oil consumption verification
Check engine oil level before test drive, drive 50+ km, recheck level. Ask seller about oil consumption rate. For 2009-2012 models, request documentation proving oil consumption service campaign (TPI 2) was completed with new pistons/rings installed. Without proof, assume repair needed.
Check service records for carbon cleaning
Ask if intake valve carbon cleaning (walnut blasting) has been performed. If car has 60,000+ km and never cleaned, budget €600-800 immediately. Symptoms: rough idle, hesitation, reduced power.
VCDS diagnostic scan essential
Take to Audi specialist with VCDS tool. Check all fault codes, timing chain stretch measurement, DPF percentage (if diesel), DSG adaptation values, and service intervals. Hidden faults often present.
DSG transmission test (S-Tronic models only)
Drive for 20+ minutes to get transmission hot. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or delayed engagement. Check service history for 50,000 km DSG fluid changes. If no fluid changes documented or irregular shifting present, budget €2,500-5,000 for mechatronic/clutch repairs.
Inspect for coolant leaks at water pump
Check for coolant residue or wetness around water pump/thermostat housing area. Sniff for sweet coolant smell. Check coolant level and condition (should be pink/red, not brown or milky).
Test turbo operation and check for actuator codes
During test drive, accelerate firmly and listen for turbo whistle. Any hesitation, EPC light, or limp mode indicates actuator/turbo issues. Check for blue-black smoke on hard acceleration (turbo oil seals failing).
Suspension noise check
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads slowly. Listen for clunks, knocking, or creaking from suspension. Worn control arm bushings common around 80,000 km. Test steering feel - vagueness indicates worn bushings.
Verify model year and VIN for recall eligibility
Contact Audi with VIN to verify: timing chain settlement eligibility (2009-2012), oil consumption service campaign completion, water pump recall, and any outstanding recalls. Some owners received free timing chain/engine repairs under settlement.
Interior water damage inspection
Check headliner, carpets, and footwells for water stains or damp smell indicating sunroof drain clogs. Lift carpets if possible. Water damage to comfort control module costs €8,000-9,000 to repair.
Check all electronic systems
Test: MMI system, parking sensors, rear camera, climate control, all lights, power seats, sunroof operation, electronic parking brake engage/release. Audi electrical gremlins expensive to diagnose/fix.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Timing chain tensioner class action settlement (2009-2012 VINs)Verify with Audi using VIN
Oil consumption service campaign TPI 2 (2009-2012 CAEB/CDNC/CNDC engines)Request documentation
Water pump EA888 TSI/TFSI class action settlementVerify coverage
A-pillar trim cover clips (airbag deployment issue)Verify completed
1,813 Technical Service Bulletins issued (2013 model year most affected)VCDS scan recommended
Contact Audi dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The timing chain settlement and oil consumption service campaign are critical - some owners received free engine repairs. TSBs document common issues but repairs not required to be free. Check NHTSA website (US) or national equivalent for complete recall list.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (4 years/50,000 miles)Expired on all 8R models
Timing chain settlement extension (2009-2012)8 years/80,000 miles (verify VIN)
Audi Pure Protection extended warranty€1,000-5,500/year depending on coverage tier
Third-party extended warrantiesAvailable up to 150,000 km
All Q5 8R models are outside original factory warranty. Some 2009-2012 VINs eligible for timing chain settlement extended warranty. Extended warranty strongly recommended given €3,500-10,000 potential repair costs. Audi Pure Protection offers Powertrain, Gold, and Platinum tiers with €0-250 deductibles. Maintain service records meticulously to keep warranty valid. Third-party warranties cheaper but verify coverage exclusions carefully.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.