IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2021 Audi Q5 Mk2 (FY)

By 2021 the Q5 FY had matured and most initial BSG and software issues had been resolved. This is generally the safest used FY buy, though DPF health on diesels and air suspension on equipped cars still warrant attention.

What changed for 2021

  • •Updated engine range with improved efficiency
  • •Revised MMI software with improved stability
  • •Enhanced driver-assistance features
  • •Updated trim levels

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Suspension control arm bush wear at 40k–80k miles
  • !DPF issues on town-driven diesels
  • !Electrical glitches on higher-mileage cars
6
Known Issues
1
Serious
4
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

DL382 S tronic Gear Selection / Mechatronic Faults

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Control or clutch faults can interrupt gear selection. Identify the gearbox code first: this entry applies to the longitudinal DL382 family, not every automatic sold under the same model name.

Warning Signs:

Gearbox warning, Delayed engagement or missing gears

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive from cold and again when warm
  • Check gearbox-specific service invoices and obtain a diagnostic report
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

NOx Sensor / AdBlue Faults

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Modern diesel emissions hardware can bring warning lights and countdowns.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£1,000
Warning Signs:

AdBlue system warning, Engine light

What to Inspect:
  • Check for recent emissions-system invoices
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

DPF Regeneration Problems

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The diesel Q5 FY can suffer DPF blockages on short trips, triggering limp mode and expensive forced regenerations or replacement.

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

DPF warning light, Limp mode, Reduced fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Ask about driving patterns and whether regular motorway journeys are made
  • Check for DPF-related fault codes
  • Verify EGR system is functioning
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Suspension Control Arm Bush Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Front suspension bushes and control arms can wear prematurely, causing clunks and vague steering on UK roads.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600
Warning Signs:

Clunks over bumps, Steering vagueness, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Drive on rough roads at low speed
  • Inspect bushes for play
  • Check MOT history for suspension advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

2.0 TFSI Water Pump / Thermostat Coolant Leak

ModerateCooling System

Loss of coolant around the pump and thermostat assembly needs investigation before it causes overheating. This record concerns the petrol engine; diesel cooling hardware differs.

Warning Signs:

Repeated coolant top-ups, Dried coolant residue or overheating

What to Inspect:
  • Check coolant level only when cold
  • Request a cooling-system pressure test and repair invoices
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Electrical and Infotainment Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

MMI screen freezes, Bluetooth dropouts, and sensor faults are common on early cars, sometimes requiring software updates or module replacement.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£800
Warning Signs:

Frozen or rebooting MMI screen, Bluetooth disconnects, Parking sensor errors

What to Inspect:
  • Use navigation, media and phone together
  • Check software update history
  • Verify all sensors work
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2021 Audi Q5 Mk2 (FY)

  • ✓Ensure all software recalls and updates are completed
  • ✓Check suspension bushes for wear on rough UK roads
  • ✓Prefer cars with documented service history at main dealer or specialist
2018–20202022
Check a 2021 Audi Q5 Mk2 (FY) by Registration