CarRecallWatchThe 2018 Audi SQ5 has 5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 25 complaints with NHTSA, including 1 crash, 2 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Electrical System (8 reports).
2018 Audi SQ5 recalls
Liquid Can Shut Down Power Module and Cut Engine Power
Liquid from a spill in the rear seat, or water entering through an insufficient underbody body seam, can penetrate the gateway control module and cause it to shut down.
Rear Wheel Trim Can Detach and Become a Road Hazard
The rear wheel arch trim on certain Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may loosen and detach from the vehicle.
Loose Wheel Arch Trim Can Detach and Cause Road Debris
The wheel arch cover trim on certain 2018-2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may loosen and come off while driving.
Brake master cylinder may fail, causing sudden brake loss
The brake master cylinder casting in these vehicles may be too short.
Brake caliper pistons may have weak coating, reducing braking
Some 2018 Audi and Volkswagen models have brake caliper pistons that may have insufficient coating.
Most common 2018 Audi SQ5 problems
Problem areas named in the 25 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Electrical System | 8 |
| Engine | 7 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 5 |
| Power Train | 4 |
| Unknown Or Other | 3 |
| Exterior Lighting | 3 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 2 |
| Service Brakes | 2 |
| Steering | 2 |
| Parking Brake | 1 |
What owners report
[B9 SQ5 - EA839 3.0T V6 CWGD] - Remove Front Bumper & Activate Radiator Support Service Position - Drain Cooling System - Remove & Replace Water Pump, Thermo- Pneumatic Valve, & Vacuum Line Set w/ Solenoids & All Necessary Hardware - Remove & Replace Thermostat Assembly w/ Seal - Remove & Replace Both Accessory Drive Belts - Fill & Bleed Cooling System - Reverse Service Mode & Reinstall Front Bumper - Road Test Vehicle & Verify Cooling System Is Operating Properly
I purchased my 2018 Audi SQ5 on September 12, 2025, from Audi Denver (McDonald Automotive Group). On XXX, at 114,145 miles, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic engine failure while driving on the highway near [XXX], caused by defective rocker arm needle bearings in the 3.0T EA839 V6 engine. âThe early-design needle bearings disintegrated within the cylinder head, scattering loose metal roller bearings into the valvetrain and oiling system. This caused an immediate, complete loss of engine power and sudden engine lockup on a remote stretch of highway. âThis mechanical failure created a severe driving emergency. The sudden engine seizure stranded us on the shoulder, resulting in a
While driving a 2018 Audi SQ5 with the EA839 3.0T engine, a coolant warning light activated and engine temperatures began rising to 210-215°F. The vehicle was pulled over immediately. Upon inspection the coolant reservoir was found to be nearly empty with dried coolant residue on the exterior indicating an active leak. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Audi dealer who confirmed via multi-point inspection that the water pump, shut off valve, and vacuum system require replacement due to coolant leakage, with a repair estimate of $5,324.87. This is a known defect in the EA839 engine platform. Audi has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins on this issue and is currently named in ac
Heavy rain leaked into the cabin of my SUV,and damaged the module, no controls worked through the key fob, no start . I keep my SUV under cover 90% of the time. A recent wind storm damaged my car port that I usually keep it under, so lately itâs been outside more often, especially if wind is in the forecast. I still use it if no wind is forecasted, because of the damage I donât trust the carport until I can repair the damage.
Car's electrical system fried overnight during a rainstorm. All systems unresponsive to keys or key faub. Car was towed to used dealership and they told me due to drainage system blockage a pool of water collected in rear battery compartment and submerged the battery.
2018 Audi SQ5 questions
Does the 2018 Audi SQ5 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 5 safety recalls for the 2018 Audi SQ5: Liquid Can Shut Down Power Module and Cut Engine Power; Rear Wheel Trim Can Detach and Become a Road Hazard; Loose Wheel Arch Trim Can Detach and Cause Road Debris; Brake master cylinder may fail, causing sudden brake loss; Brake caliper pistons may have weak coating, reducing braking. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi SQ5?
Based on 25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (8), Engine (7), Forward Collision Avoidance (5).
How do I check if a recall on my 2018 Audi SQ5 has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.