VehicleVerdict

Audi Q5 years to avoid

The Audi Q5 years to avoid are 2018, 2012, 2011, 2014 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 2008 is the cleanest year on record.

1,808

Total complaints

33

Recall campaigns

2008–2026

Years covered

4

Years to avoid

Complaints by model year

Q5 years to avoid

YearWhyComplaints
2018High complaint rate313
2012High complaint rate203
2011High complaint rate192
2014High complaint rate134

Every Q5 year

YearComplaintsRecalls
202610
2025831
2024314
2023665
2022264
20211078
2020336
2019755
2018avoid3136
2017575
20161005
20151236
2014avoid1345
20131075
2012avoid2036
2011avoid1925
20101224
2009356
200801

Common questions

What are the worst Audi Q5 years?

Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the Q5 years to avoid are 2018, 2012, 2011, 2014. The cleanest year on record is 2008.

What is the best year for the Audi Q5?

By complaint volume, 2008 has the cleanest NHTSA record among Q5 years with enough data to compare.

How many recalls does the Audi Q5 have?

Across all model years, the Q5 has 33 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,808 consumer complaints on file.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.