The Audi Q5 is a work of art and precision engineering. This midsize luxury SUV impresses buyers with its sleek style, comforts drivers with safety features, and handles like a dream
However, if you’re considering buying one, it’s important to know the kind of life expectancy you can expect from a Q5.
So, how long does an Audi Q5 last?
With proper care and maintenance, an Audi Q5 should last 125,000 to 180,000 miles. If you were to drive an average of 13,500 miles a year, a Q5 should last between 10 to 13 years. Routine maintenance will determine how long the luxury SUV will last, and proud owners have even kept their Audi Q5s on the road for 300,000 miles.
Continue reading to find out how reliable the Audi Q5 is, if it’s expensive to maintain, and what years you should avoid buying used.
How Many Miles Does The Audi Q5 Last?
An Audi Q5 should last between 125,000 and 180,000 miles if properly maintained.
Is The Audi Q5 Reliable?
The Audi Q5 is a moderately reliable midsize luxury SUV.
Consumer Reports highly recommends the 2021 Audi Q5.
The new Q5 earned a 78/100 Overall Score, ranking the new Q5 second among 26 luxury compact SUVs.
For Predicted Reliability, the Audi Q5 earned a Predicted Reliability score of 3 out of 5 points.
Let’s look at how that score compares to other luxury SUVs.
| Model | Predicted Reliability Score |
| Lexus NX | 4/5 |
| Buick Envision | 4/5 |
| Cadillac XT5 | 3/5 |
| Porsche Macan | 3/5 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | 3/5 |
| Audi Q5 | 3/5 |
| BMW X3 | 2/5 |
| Acura RDX | 2/5 |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | 2/5 |
| Infiniti QX50 | 2/5 |
| Volvo XC60 | 2/5 |
| Land Rover Range Rover Velar | 1/5 |
| Lincoln Corsair | 1/5 |
Combined with its style and safety, the Audi Q5’s reliability often earns praise from Consumer Reports.
Similarly, the Q5 earns a 3 out of 5 reliability score from RepairPal.
Based on the frequency, cost, and severity of repairs, this “Average” score from RepairPal ranks the Audi Q5 11 out of 14 in its class.
Let’s compare the Audi Q5’s overall reliability score to other luxury SUVs.
| RepairPal Rank | Model | Reliability Score (Avg. All Model Years) |
| 1 | Lexus RH450h | 4/5 |
| 2 | Acura MDX | 4/5 |
| 3 | Lexus RX350 | 4/5 |
| 4 | Infiniti FX35 | 3.5/5 |
| 5 | Lexus GX640 | 3.5/5 |
| 6 | Volvo XC70 | 3.5/5 |
| 7 | Cadillac SRX | 3.5/5 |
| 8 | Volvo XC90 | 3.5/5 |
| 9 | Lincoln MKX | 3/5 |
| 10 | Mercedes-Benz ML350 | 3/5 |
| 11 | Audi Q5 | 3/5 |
| 12 | Mercedes-Benz ML550 | 2.5/5 |
| 13 | Land Rover LR4 | 2/5 |
| 14 | Porsche Cayenne | 1.5/5 |
| Avg. Midsize Luxury Suv | 3.5/5 |
RepairPal labels the Audi Q5’s reliability as “Average” in a midsize luxury SUV subcategory that is, itself, labeled “Above Average compared to other vehicle types.
Still, this score leaves the Q5 just outside the top ten ranking for midsize luxury SUVs.
The Audi Q5 may still be worth considering, but when it comes to reliability, the Q5 is ranked below some seriously reliable competition.
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Most Reliable Audi Q5 Years
A used Audi Q5 with fewer than 100,000 miles should still provide comfort and a smooth ride, but some years seem to provide greater owner satisfaction than others.
These years seem to have the fewest owner complaints and show some of the innovation that makes Audi a popular brand,
- 2021
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2009
The 2017 Audi Q5 is the first model Audi released with a stronger yet lighter frame.
2018 took that improvement and added performance and safety to the most recent redesign year.
Consumer Reports ranked the 2021 model as the #2 (out of 26) compact luxury SUVs, and 2016, 2017, and 2019 models earned the Q5’s highest Predicted Reliability ratings (4/5).
The 2009 model year was the first for the Audi Q5, and the car was considered an immediately strong competitor in the midsize luxury SUV category.
A well-maintained 2009 Q5 that has around 100,000 miles should still hold value and have some life left.
Related Article: Why Are Audis So Expensive? (Explained)
Audi Q5 Years To Avoid
Due to owner complaints and some safety issues, avoid these model years:
- 2014
- 2013
- 2012
- 2011
2011, 2012, and 2013 models have the most serious complaints from owners while also receiving the car’s worst Reliability Verdict and Owner Satisfaction ratings from Consumer Reports.
The 2012 and 2014 models also have a tendency to consume oil excessively.
What may be even more concerning is that 2014 has a tendency to quit running while driving, which has obvious safety issues considering that Audi’s are often sought for their safety records.
Is An Audi Q5 Expensive To Maintain
An Audi Q5 is expensive to maintain.
Because of the likelihood of frequent shop visits, the Audi Q5 “has poor ownership costs “according to RepairPal.
The Q5’s average annual repair cost is $928, well above the $807 average for all midsize luxury SUVs.
Interestingly, the Audi Q5 doesn’t seem to have as many severe issues as other cars in its class, but it will possibly require more overall shop visits.
Let’s look at how the Audi Q5 compares to other midsize luxury SUVs when it comes to average annual cost, frequency of shop visits, and the probability of needing major repairs.
| Model | Avg. Annual Repair Cost | Frequency of Unscheduled Repairs | Probability of Severe Repairs |
| Lexus RH450h | $540 | 0.5 | 7% |
| Acura MDX | $571 | 0.4 | 8% |
| Lexus RX350 | $550 | 0.4 | 8% |
| Infiniti FX35 | $617 | 0.7 | 9% |
| Cadillac SRX | $703 | 0.4 | 15% |
| Lexus GX640 | $770 | 0.8 | 9% |
| Volvo XC70 | 804 | 0.6 | 10% |
| Lincoln MKX | $811 | 0.7 | 15% |
| Volvo XC90 | $851 | 0.6 | 15% |
| Audi Q5 | $928 | 1.2 | 9% |
| Mercedes-Benz ML350 | $1,020 | 0.6 | 13% |
| Mercedes-Benz ML550 | $1,084 | 0.8 | 16% |
| Porsche Cayenne | $1,231 | 1.1 | 21% |
| Land Rover LR4 | $1,241 | 0.9 | 15% |
| Avg. Midsize Luxury Suv | $807 | 0.6 | 11% |
Although the Audi Q5 is expensive to maintain, barely making the top 10 when it comes to average annual repair cost, the Q5 ranks in the top 6 for a relatively low probability of severe repair needs.
However, the Q5 is more likely to need unexpected repair shop visits than any other midsize luxury SUV that RepairPal rated.
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Common Audi Q5 Problems
The most common complaint owners make about several Audi Q5 model years is that the car begins to consume excessive oil even before 100,000 miles.
This issue may require a complete engine rebuild.
However, the most common problem is not the most serious.
The 2014 model is known for dying while driving, and the problem seems to be a faulty engine in many cases.
Another serious safety issue is failed power steering in the 2014 and 2015 models.
Audi may have made the problem worse by recalling some models for issues but not recalling other similar models that have the same or similar problems.
The timing chain is often mentioned as being a problem, especially on the 2011-2014 models.
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How Long Does an Audi Q5 Battery Last?
An Audi Q5 battery should last between 3 to 5 years.
The longevity of any battery depends on use, care, and weather conditions.
If a battery sits for a long time, especially in cold weather, it will not last as long as it will with regular use.
The average replacement cost for an Audi battery is over $400, so proper care is even more critical with the Audi Q5.
How Long Does an Audi Q5 Engine Last?
The Audi Q5 engine should last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles, provided that the engine does not fail early due to some of the problems mentioned above.
How Long Do Audi Q5 BMW 5 Brakes Last?
Brake pads should last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles depending on driving habits.
Urban commutes wear out brake pads much faster, and replacing brake pads can cost up to $400.
How Long Do Audi Q5 Tires Last?
Tires for an Audi Q5 should last about 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
Tire rotation and balance are keys to making tires last longer.
How To Make Your Audi Q5 Last Longer
Routine maintenance will make your Audi Q5 last longer.
Check oil and air filters, and keep an eye on the timing chain.
Beyond the normal maintenance, save money and get to know a certified Audi mechanic.
As noted earlier, the repairs for an Audi Q5 are less likely to be major, but you will probably get to see your local mechanic at least once each year.
Final Thoughts – Audi Q5 Life Expectancy
The Audi Q5 is not known for its longevity.
Even the better engines usually last only 150,000 to 200,000 miles.
Does that mean your Audi Q5 can’t exceed expectations? Absolutely not.
Internet forums are full of claims that Audi’s advanced engineering helps the car last forever, and owners are willing to show their high-mileage odometers with pride.
Maintaining the Q5, fixing minor problems before they become major, and driving the car like you’re proud to own an Audi is key to its longevity.