IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Audi Q5 Mk1 (8R)

The 2013 facelift brought revised engines and updated styling. The worst oil-consumption issues were addressed with updated pistons, making this the safest used 8R buy if a facelift car.

What changed for 2013

  • •Facelift with revised headlights and grille
  • •Updated EA888 Gen 3 engine with revised pistons
  • •Improved infotainment and trim
  • •Revised suspension calibration

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Air suspension leaks on equipped models
  • !S tronic mechatronic wear if fluid changes neglected
  • !Thermostat housing coolant leaks
  • !DPF issues on town-driven diesels
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

SeriousEngine

The EA888 2.0 TFSI timing chain tensioner can lose pressure overnight, causing chain slack and a rattle on cold start. If ignored, the chain can jump and destroy the engine.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,500
Warning Signs:

Metallic rattle for 2-4 seconds on cold start, Timing correlation fault codes, Harsh idle

What to Inspect:
  • Insist on a genuine stone-cold start
  • Look for invoices for updated tensioner or chain kit
  • Prefer facelift 2013+ cars with revised tensioner
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

S tronic (DL501) Mechatronic Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox can suffer mechatronic unit failure and clutch pack wear, especially on the heavier Q5.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£4,000
Warning Signs:

Jerky pull-away, Hesitation selecting reverse, Gearbox malfunction warning

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive in slow traffic
  • Check for DSG fluid change invoices every 38k miles
  • Watch for jerky shifts when cold and warm
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

DPF and EGR Clogging

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Town-driven diesel Q5s block their DPFs and soot up EGR hardware, bringing warning lights, limp mode, and expensive troubleshooting.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Engine-management light, Forced regeneration requests, Limp mode and poor throttle response

What to Inspect:
  • Ask how the car has been used and whether it does regular motorway runs
  • Scan for soot load and EGR-related faults
  • Check MOT history for emissions advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Thermostat Housing Coolant Leak

ModerateCooling System

The plastic thermostat housing cracks and leaks coolant, often starting as a slow seep with no obvious puddle underneath.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£750
Warning Signs:

Low coolant warning, Pink residue around thermostat area, Sweet smell after shutdown

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect coolant level from cold
  • Check for staining around the housing
  • Look for evidence of previous cooling-system repairs
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013 Audi Q5 Mk1 (8R)

  • ✓Facelift cars with the Gen 3 engine avoid the oil-consumption issue
  • ✓Inspect steel springs, dampers and suspension bushes
  • ✓Budget for thermostat housing replacement if not already done
2009–20122014–2017
Check a 2013 Audi Q5 Mk1 (8R) by Registration