There are no safety recalls for the 2016 Audi SQ5, but owners have filed 7 complaints with NHTSA.
2016 Audi SQ5 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 25,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Audi SQ5 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Suspension · reported Oct 29, 2026
My vehicle was in for its mandatory annual State Inspection. It was pointed out that the rear subframe is showing rust which apparently is a common problem with these vehicles, in fact a class action lawsuit is being instituted against Volkswagen USA for this very issue.
Engine · reported Apr 29, 2021
The original engine water pump failed at 18,313 miles on may 12, 2019. The replaced engine water pump has failed again at 24,700 miles on april 25. 2021. This is completely unacceptable and unsafe.
Steering · at 53,000 miles · reported Apr 24, 2021
Steering intermediate shaft is a known defect on every mlb-platform audi model. My sq5, like thousands of others, has developed a known defect that causes a squeaking/creaking that can be felt in the steering wheel when turning the wheel. It can also be faintly heard. Instead of initiating a recall to fix the issue, audi has released tons of tsbs that only cover in-warranty cars, even though may cars develop this problem with as little as 20,000 miles. At 53,000 miles, my car has this issue now and I'll be forced to pay hundreds of dollars for a repair that either includes replacing parts of…
Steering · at 38,000 miles · reported Jun 11, 2019
The audi sq 5 loses power steering if the rack/pinion power steering unit is exposed to water. This does not refer to flooding or submerged car audi considers weather an outside influence and does not honor the warranty the car retains full propulsion but is impossible to steer the electrical mechanism on the power steering is dangerously exposed , and apparently not weather proof I made a left hand turn in a heavy rain storm up the apron of a driveway to a parking lot. I drove the car 100-150 feet to a secure spot to wait out a heavy houston rainstorm . The dashboard indicator came on…
Visibility/Wiper · at 3,000 miles · reported Mar 24, 2016
The contact owns a 2016 audi sq5. The contact stated that the size and placement of the driver and passenger side mirrors caused a blind spot when making turns. The contact also stated that due to the failure, he nearly crashed into a pedestrian. The contact was concerned that the road was unable to be viewed which could result into a crash due to the failure. The dealer was contacted and informed that the vehicle was functioning as designed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000. Updated 05/04/16
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Audi SQ5 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2016 Audi SQ5 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Audi SQ5?
Owners report unknown or other problems most often (2 reports), followed by steering (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 25,000 miles.
Are Audi recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Audi dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.