Dealer visit checklist
2021 Audi Q5 checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
This is a year to avoid
- • 2.6x more owner complaints than nearby model years
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Audi Q5 problems to check
- Oil consumption issues with the 2.0T TFSI engine — check levels every 3,000-5,000 miles
- Timing chain tensioner wear has been reported on higher-mileage units, with repair costs of $1,500-$2,500
- DSG/S tronic dual-clutch transmission can exhibit shuddering or hesitation if service intervals are skipped
- Infotainment (MMI) system software glitches and touchpad unresponsiveness are frequently reported
- Weak air conditioning performance and occasional HVAC blend door actuator failures costing $300-$600
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- TIRES: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $34,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away