WA1KK78R99A0186092009 AUDI Q5
2009 AUDI Q5 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 6 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 31 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
2009 AUDI Q5
2009 AUDI Q5 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 6 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 31 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 6 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Airbag system recall; Fuel system recall)
- 2 injuries reported across 31 owner complaints
- Safety Systems is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
- Manufacturer delayed recall by 7 years after first complaints — pattern of slow response to known defects
31 owner complaints filed — top areas: Safety Systems (52%), Other (19%), Engine/Powertrain (10%). 2 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- AUDI
- Model
- Q5
- Year
- 2009
- Body Style
- Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Vehicle Type
- MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 6-cyl 3.197000L 270 hp
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- AUDI AG
- Assembly
- INGOLSTADT, GERMANY
- GVWR
- Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Assembly Plant Quality
Plant: INGOLSTADT, GERMANY
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Airbag system recall
- ▸Fuel system recall
- ▸2 fuel system recall(s) — potential ignition risk
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Fuel System
- ⚠4 recalls on same component: Safety Systems
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Driver Assistance Features
ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database
Fuel Economy & Environment
EPA fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov
Deferred Failure Risk
Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones
Owners of the 2009 AUDI Q5 report safety systems issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2009 AUDI Q5 report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
6 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 6 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 6 recalls is ~76%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
AUDI completes recalls at a fair rate (84%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~22 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~22 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2007-2012 Audi Q7 and 2009-2012 Audi Q5 vehicles, previously repaired under NHTSA recall 16V-660. These vehicles were previously repaired with an interim repair of installing butyl tape to the fuel pump flange, until replacement remedy parts became available.Read full details...
~26% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2006-2013 Audi A3, 2007-2009 A4 Cabriolet and S4 Cabriolet, 2008 RS4 Cabriolet, 2009-2012 Q5, and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet and S5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.Read full details...
~20% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired
Low RiskSource: NHTSA published Takata completion data
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Audi Q5, and 2007-2012 Audi Q7 vehicles equipped with gasoline engines. The fuel pump flange on the affected vehicles may crack, allowing fuel to leak.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
AIR BAGS
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Audi A4, A5, and Q5 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.Read full details...
~20% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired
Low RiskSource: NHTSA published Takata completion data
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat sedans and wagon, 2012-2014 Passat sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.Read full details...
~20% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired
Low RiskSource: NHTSA published Takata completion data
AIR BAGS
SummaryVOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 Q5 PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 25, 2008 AND JUNE 4, 2009. A LEFT AND/OR RIGHT A-PILLAR TRIM COVER CLIP MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED CORRECTLY, ALLOWING THE A-PILLAR TRIM TO BECOME LOOSE WHEN THE SIDEGUARD HEAD PROTECTION AIRBAGS DEPLOY DURING A CRASH.Read full details...
~30% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
Manufacturer Recall Response Time
Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance
First complaint was filed 7 years before the recall was issued — manufacturer was aware of this issue for years before acting.
2 injuries reported across 31 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.
Complaint Intelligence
31 complaints analyzed across 8 system categories
Air Bags leads owner complaints (52%), most reported when the vehicle was 6–8 yrs old. Also common: Fuel/Propulsion System (16%), Unknown Or Other (6%).
Based on 31 complaints with a reported incident date. Too few owners cited mileage (1) to report a reliable failure-mileage range.
39% of complaints filed in Nov & May — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME31 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
I am reporting a potentially serious safety defect involving the rear subframe/crossmember of my 2009 Audi Q5. I discovered significant corrosion on the vehicle's rear subframe, which is a structural component supporting the rear suspension and rear axle assembly. The corrosion is substantially more than normal superficial surface rust. There is visible rust scaling and loss of material in areas of the rear subframe. The affected area was partially concealed by the factory-installed plastic stone guards/shields. Because these plastic covers obscure the subframe, the extent of the corrosion is difficult to identify during a normal visual inspection unless the covers are removed. I am concerned that continued corrosion could reduce the structural integrity of the rear subframe and potentially compromise the mounting points for the rear suspension or rear axle components. A structural failure of the rear subframe could result in unexpected changes in wheel alignment, suspension movement, loss of vehicle control, or other serious safety consequences. This issue is particularly concerning because the corrosion can develop underneath the plastic protective covers and may not be visible to the vehicle owner during normal operation. Safety Concern The rear subframe is not merely a cosmetic body panel. It is a structural component associated with the rear suspension and axle assembly. If corrosion continues to remove structural material, a suspension mounting point or section of the subframe could potentially weaken or fail under normal driving loads. A failure while the vehicle is being driven, particularly at highway speed, could potentially result in loss of vehicle control. There were no dashboard warning lights or electronic warnings indicating this condition. The problem was discovered through physical inspection of the underside of the vehicle. Possible Design/Corrosion Mechanism The factory-installed plastic stone guards appear to cover portions of the rea
Cybex Sirona S is marketed as a 360 car seat that rotates and swivels, but when in forward-facing mode for functionality it does not tether. The guidance is to use the load leg to keep the swivel and rotation but then not use the tether. The tether strap is critical for safety and part of CPST guidance. People purchasing this seat are being made to compromise safety for functionality.
I was in an accident where I hit a herd of elk. My car was totaled. The airbags did not deploy and they definitely should have. It was hit on the front, and both front sides. There is no way the airbags shouldn’t have deployed.
The contact owns a 2009 Audi Q5. The contact stated that the vehicle was smoking. There was antifreeze and oil leaking from the vehicle. While driving, the accelerator pedal and brake pedal became stuck, and the vehicle stalled. There was an abnormal oil burning odor, fuel, and antifreeze. The vehicle was also consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The gear shifter button was also stuck. The gear box malfunctioned, and a message to restart vehicle was displayed. Additionally, the tailgate seized while going up and down. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where additional oil was added several days. The vehicle was taken to an unknown local dealer where the antifreeze was changed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
I got in my car at about 6pm on Saturday May 28, 2022. Started it up and proceeded to start opening the sunroof when I noticed it was cracked. I was thinking some kids had hit it with a ball until I traced the spiderwebbing right back to to the center of the panoramic sunroof. You could wind noise really bad when driving.
Front left door pillar is becoming soaked from an apparent water leak possibly coming from the panoramic sunroof or windshield. Regardless it has to be running into the pillar airbag and has to be a safety concern.
FUEL LEAKING FROM FUEL PUMP UNDER PASSENGER 'S SEAT AFRAID TO DRIVER IT BECAUSE AS LONG AS THE ENGINE IS RUNNING THE FUEL CONTINUE TOO LEAK WHETHER THE CAR IS MOVING OR STATIONARY!!
FUEL LEAKING ON RIGHT SIDE JUST UNDER THE PASSENGER'S SEAT ON GROUND WHEN CAR IS RUNNING
RIGHT SIDE PASSENGER TRIM FOR AIRBAG IS LOOSE AND HAS BEEN DETECTED IN OTHER CASES TO HAVE POSSIBILITY OF BEING INEFFECTIVE IN DEPLOYING.
ON 7/02/09 MY AUDI Q5 (VIN# [XXX]) WAS PURCHASED FROM, AND SERVICED BY BARRIER AUDI BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON; NOW DOING BUSINESS AS AUDI BELLEVUE A DEALERSHIP OWNED AND OPERATED BY AUTO NATION. TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS [TSB] WERE SENT TO SOME AUDI OWNERS ON 12/6/2013 CONCERNING REPAIR AND CLEANING OF THE SECONDARY AIR CONTROL VALVE WITH A WARRANTY EXTENDING THROUGH 07/02/2019. THIS PROBLEM WAS INITIALLY CORRECTED ON 12/27/2013 @44,445 MILES, MY LAST SERVICE WITH BARRIER WAS 09/13/2018 AND AT NO TIME HAD I RECEIVED NOTICE THAT THE PROBLEM COULD RESURFACE. THE TSB PROVIDES : "THE SECONDARY AIR SYSTEM ON THESE VEHICLES IS USED TO HEAT UP THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS QUICKLY DURING COLD-START CONDITIONS?. OVER TIME, AND DEPENDING ON DRIVING STYLES, CARBON WILL BUILD UP IN THESE SMALL 10MM PORTS AND CAUSE FAULTS IN THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE FOR SECONDARY AIR, BANK1/BANK2 INSUFFICIENT FLOW? SOME MODELS DO HAVE A WARRANTY EXTENSION, WHICH COVERS THE SECONDARY AIR PORT CLEANING UP TO 10 YEAR/110,000 MILES. PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL DEALER FOR DETAILS. KEEP IN MIND, IF ANY OF THE CONTROL VALVES, COMBI VALVES, OR SUPPLY LINES ARE DAMAGED, OR FAULTY, THOSE ITEMS ARE NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY EXTENSION, AND WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED BEFORE THE PORT CLEANING CAN BE PERFORMED." ON 10/01/ 2019, AN ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS DETECTED ON THE Q5 WITH APPROXIMATELY 106,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. ON 10/28/2019 A CLAIM [#190822437]` WAS FILED WITH AUDI USA AND DENIED AS UNTIMELY FILED. AUDI BELLEVUE CARRIED OUT REPAIRS AT MY EXPENSE FOR $ 2045.75. GIVEN THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO NOTICE, THE CONTINUED WARRANTY PERIOD SHOULD BE EXTENDED BY AUDI USA AND THE COSTS OF REPAIR REIMBURSED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V082000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AUDI ROCHESTER (3955 W HENRIETTA RD, ROCHESTER, NY 14623, (585) 334-1600) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
THE CAR GAS A STRONG GAS SMELL IN THE CABIN OF THE CAR, EVERYDAY, ALL DAY. TOOK IT TO AUDI AND THEY SAID THEY FIXED THE "PROBLEM". THE CAR CAN'T BE DRIVEN. ITS CAUSING NAUSEA AND HEADACHES WHEN DRIVING MORE THAN 5 MINS. I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING A CAR THAT IS PRODUCING A GAS SMELL. I BELIEVE THAT GAS FLANGE RECALL CREATED MORE ISSUES TO MY CAR THAT AUDI MADE ME PAY FOR AND NEVER FIXED THE GAS SMELL.
THE DRIVER AIRBAG MAY EXPLODE IN A CRASH WITH AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. SHARP METAL FRAGMENTS CAN HIT PEOPLE AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. THE DRIVER AIRBAG MAY EXPLODE IN A CRASH WITH AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. SHARP METAL FRAGMENTS CAN HIT PEOPLE AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. OWNERS SHOULD SCHEDULE THIS RECALL REPAIR IMMEDIATELY, EVEN IF AN INTERIM REPAIR WAS RECENTLY DONE. I HAVE RECEIVED MANY LETTERS ABOUT BRINGING MY CAR IN FOR THE REPAIRS BUT WHENEVER I CALL AUDI AND TRY SCHEDULE SOMETHING THEY KEEP SAYING THAT THE PARTS HAVE NOT ARRIVED. THE ISSUE HAS GONE MORE THAN A YEAR. MY AUDI DEALER IS ROYAL AUTOMOTIVE GROUP OF SAN FRANCISCO. I HAVE CALLED MANY TIMES AND THEY TOLD ME TO KEEP WAITING.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V082000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE LOCAL DEALER (BOB MOORE AUDI IN OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V082000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AUDI SEATTLE IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON AND AUDI BELLEVUE IN BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON WERE MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TAKATA RECALL IT HAS BEEN OVER A YEAR SINCE I FIRST REQUESTED THAT AUDI OF BELLEVUE HANDLE MY AIRBAG RECALL. I CALLED IN MARCH 2016 AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD HAVE THE PARTS "BY THE END OF THE YEAR." I REQUESTED A LOANER CAR UNTIL IT WAS FIXED AND WAS TRANSFERRED TO A SALES MANAGER WHO DID NOT TAKE MY CALL. I LEFT A MESSAGE EXPLAINING THAT MY CAR SPENT 3 YEARS IN TEXAS AND I HAVE A SMALL CHILD AND WAS NOT COMFORTABLE DRIVING MY CAR WITH THE RECALL. HE NEVER RETURNED MY CALL. I RECENTLY TOOK MY CAR IN FOR REGULAR SERVICE. WHEN I MADE MY APPOINTMENT, I AGAIN REQUESTED THE AIRBAG BE REPLACED AND WAS TOLD THEY STILL DON'T HAVE THE PARTS AND, IN FACT NOBODY IN THE AREA HAD THEM. OUR HONDA WAS FIXED LAST JUNE. I RECEIVED ANOTHER "URGENT" RECALL NOTICE IN THE MAIL THIS WEEK, URGING ME TO CONTACT MY DEALERSHIP IMMEDIATELY. I CALLED AUDI USA TO EXPLAIN THE EXPERIENCE I JUST HAD AND INQUIRE FURTHER. I WAS TOLD THAT THEY WERE HOPING TO GET PARTS TO MY AREA BY SEPTEMBER (IT IS APRIL) AND THAT THE DECISION TO NOT MAKE REPLACEMENT PARTS AVAILABLE TO MY AREA WAS BEING DIRECTED BY THE NHTSA. I EXPLAINED MY CONCERNS ABOUT THE 3 YEARS MY CAR SPENT IN TEXAS AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD MAKE A NOTE ON MY VEHICLE, BUT THE ONLY ADVICE I WAS GIVEN WAS TO KEEP CHECKING IN WITH MY DEALERSHIP.
FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL MAKES A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE WHEN BRAKING AND OVER ANY SMALL BUMPS ON THE ROAD.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TAKATA RECALL CANNOT GET REPLACEMENT AIRBAG,
TAKATA RECALL 16V078, MFR RECALL NUMBER 69N1 TAKING TOO LONG.
TAKATA RECALL, I HAVE MADE 3 INQUIRIES FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS TO BE MADE ON MY VEHICLE AND HAVE BEEN TOLD REPEATEDLY FROM THE DEALERSHIP THAT THEY HAVE NO INFORMATION ON WHEN THE REPAIR PARTS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE. THIS IS AN UNACCEPTABLE RESPONSE AND NEEDS BE BE ADDRESSES BEFORE I OR MY PASSENGERS ARE ENDANGERED!
TAKATA RECALL . IT HAS BEEN OVER 6 MONTHS SINCE RECEIVING A NOTICE FROM AUDI NORTH AMERICA RELATING TO THE TAKATA AIRBAG INFLATOR RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE. I PHONED THE DEALERSHIP LAST MONTH AND THEY SAID THEY STILL DON'T HAVE A FIX FOR THIS RECALL. I FEEL AUDI SHOULD BE MORE PROACTIVE IN FIXING THIS ISSUE ESPECIALLY IF IT COULD BE LIFE THREATENING TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. I DO NOT WANT TO WAIT AND SEE IF METAL SHARDS WILL GO FLYING THRU ME IN THE EVENT OF AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. NOTHING HAS HAPPENED YET BUT I WANT THIS RECALL ISSUE FIXED BY THE DEALER. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL BEARING MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 58,000.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V660000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR EMITTING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PLASTIC FUEL PUMP IN THE FUEL TANK WAS FRACTURED AND RELEASED FUEL BENEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2009 AUDI Q5. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE SPUN AROUND AND CRASHED INTO A LIGHT POLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,110.
STRONG GAS SMELL COMING FROM UNDERNEATH REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE. NO SMELL COMING FROM GAS CAP AREA. NO GAS LEAK NOTICED UNDER VEHICLE. PER RESEARCH THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE PLASTIC FUEL PUMP LOCATED ABOVE THE GAS TANK. CONTACTED AUDI CUSTOMER CARE AND THEY STATED THERE ARE NO RECALLS FOR 2009 Q5S. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE THAT AUDI IS NOT ADDRESSING. *TR
THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN RUNNING ROUGH FOR A WEEK OR SO. THEN WE NOTICED A STRONG GAS SMELL COMING FROM THE CAR. WE BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR SERVICE AND IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE PLASTIC FUEL PUMP IN THE GAS TANK HAD DEVELOPED FRACTURES AND WAS SPRAYING FUEL UNDER THE CAR BENEATH THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT. THE MECHANIC RELATED WE WERE VERY LUCKY THAT THERE WASN'T A FIRE. WHEN HE REPLACED THE PUMP WITH A FACTORY REPLACEMENT PART. HE NOTED THAT HE COULD FEEL THE PLASTIC TOP OF THE NEW FUEL PUMP PULSATING. HE CONTACTED AUDI TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL AND THERE WAS NONE. THE MECHANIC FEELS THE PART WILL FAIL AGAIN. YOU CAN SEE TINY FRACTURES IN THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP. I STILL HAVE THE OLD PUMP IF YOU NEED IT I WILL BE HAPPY TO SEND IT TO YOU. THIS IS ONE OF THE WORST FUEL LEAKS THE MECHANIC HAS SEEN AND FEELS IT IS POTENTIALLY VERY DANGEROUS. THE MECHANIC FELT SO STRONGLY ABOUT THIS THAT HE SUGGESTED MAKING A COMPLAINT TO NHTSA AND TO GET RID OF THE CAR. *TR
VEHICLE HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED AND SERVICED ON SCHEDULE AT THE DEALERSHIP. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS OR INDICATIONS ON THE DASHBOARD PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. AFTER THE CAR SAT IDLE ALL NIGHT, ON THE MORNING THE NEXT DAY, I TRIED TO TO START TO CAR. THERE WAS BIG POP SOUND. TURNED OFF THE ENGINE AND RESTARTED AFTER A COUPLE OF MINS AND NOTICED, MESSAGE ON THE DASHBOARD INDICATING ALTERNATOR FAULT. OPENED THE HOOD AND NOTICED THE SERPENTINE BELT HAS COMPLETELY FALLEN OFF. THIS RESULTED IN THE POWER STEERING BEING COMPLETELY DISABLED. BATTERY STOPPED CHARGING. VERY VERY LUCK THAT THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED WHEN THE CAR WAS IDLE. THE CAR WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE AS THE STEERING WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN. SECONDLY THE BATTERY STOPPED CHARGING. THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE HAS NO ANSWER AS TO WHAT CAUSES THIS. ESPECIALLY WHEN THE CAR HAS BEEN THROUGH SERVICE JUST A FEW MONTHS AGO. VERY CONCERNED IF SUCH ISSUES HAPPENS ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGH SPEEDS. HOW CAN A VEHICLE WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE PLUS COMPLETE MAINTENANCE HAVE SUCH ISSUES. AUDI HAS SO MANY INBUILT SENSORS AND YET THERE WAS NO INDICATION SOMETHING IS WRONG. *TR
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 AUDI Q5. WHENEVER THE CONTACT WOULD DOWN SHIFT FROM 2ND TO FIRST GEAR, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO LUNGE FORWARD. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE PROBLEM IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 2900. UPDATED 11/3/09 *CN THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 11/06/09.*J
Component Failure Cascade Risk
Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures
▸ Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 31 total NHTSA complaints filed over 12 years, with the worst year being 2017 (6 complaints).
The amber reliability line averaged 98/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 89/100 in 2023.
The red dashed line marks recall issuance — the first recall came 7 years after owners began filing complaints, a lag that indicates the manufacturer was slow to formally acknowledge these problems.
Red dots on the amber line flag 2 years (2015, 2023) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Manufacturer Extended Warranties & Special Coverage
1 known program match this vehicle — verify current eligibility with dealer using your VIN
EA888 Gen 1 and Gen 2 2.0T TSI engines suffer from premature timing chain wear caused by a faulty chain tensioner. The symptom is a rattling noise on cold start. VW and Audi extended coverage for the timing chain system and issued revised parts under Technical Service Action 23BE.
Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
Repair Cost Intelligence
Estimated repair costs for known AUDI Q5 defects — quantify your risk in dollars
TDI diesel Dieselgate
VW/EPA consent decree buyback and fix program concluded in 2019. Affected 2.0L vehicles were either bought back or received the approved emissions modification. Verify fix was applied before purchase.
DSG dual-clutch transmission
Estimates based on RepairPal averages, ASE mechanic surveys, and NHTSA investigation data. Actual costs vary by region and shop.
5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate
Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs
Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $43,614 (~$727/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2009 AUDI Q5 — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
15% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
- ▸Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | WA1KK78R99A018609 |
| Model Year | 2009 |
| Make | AUDI |
| Model | Q5 |
| Vehicle Type | MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV) |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV] |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Displacement (L) | 3.197000 |
| Horsepower | 270 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | AUDI AG |
| Assembly City | INGOLSTADT |
| Assembly Country | GERMANY |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | WA1 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 9 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | 9 |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | A |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 018609 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 6 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 31 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 10/2/2026, 7:03:13 AM.