This bulletin provides informatin when there is binding or vibrations in tight turns with quattro Ultra.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2018 Audi SQ5 powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2018 Audi SQ5 have filed 3 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
3
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2018 SQ5 (this page) | 3 |
| 2021 SQ5 | 3 |
What stands out
Owners are still filing on this — the most recent NHTSA powertrain complaint for this vehicle was logged 25 days ago.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
The high-voltage batteries in electric vehicles are subject to various ageing effects which could lead to the energy content (energy density) being reduced. This reduction in the energy content, which is due to factors. Revised header. Added Model years
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulleitn provides informiaotn when there is a loss of coolant; mechanical coolant pump 2.9L, 3.0L V6 TFSI.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin provides informatin when there is binding or vibrations in tight turns with quattro Ultra.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin provides additoinal information to assist in determining the energy content of lithium-ion high-voltage batteries.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
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. The early-design needle bearings disintegrated within the cylinder head, scattering loose metal…
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…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2018 Audi SQ5?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2018 Audi SQ5?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 3 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/Audi/SQ5.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.