Audi brand mark

2013–2017 Audi Q5 · common fault repair costs

What the known faults on this Audi Q5 typically cost to put right at a UK independent garage · use the figures to price risk before you bid, and to justify a reduction when something shows up on inspection.

Cost at a glance

Most expensive fault
£900–£3,200
Top three risks, from
£2,700
Worst case, everything
£15,000

The single priciest documented job on the 2013–2017 Audi Q5 is dct clutch pack / mechatronic work at £900–£3,200. Few cars need every repair listed here · treat £4,430–£15,000 as the full exposure if one arrived with all of them.

Cost per fault

Transmission (S tronic)High

Jerky gear changes, hesitation pulling away, or clunking when shifting between Drive and Reverse due to mechatronic unit wear.

DCT clutch pack / mechatronic work£900–£3,200

Inspect · With the engine running and foot firmly on the brake, shift repeatedly between D and R. Feel for harsh engagements or delays exceeding one second.

CoolingMedium

Water pump / thermostat module failure.

Head gasket / cooling system repair£900–£2,600

Inspect · Check for coolant loss and overheating.

Exterior LightingMedium

Front LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) dimming, turning yellow, or failing completely due to the control module overheating and burning the light tube.

Head gasket / cooling system repair£900–£2,600

Inspect · Switch on the ignition and headlights. Visually check both front headlight clusters to ensure the LED strips are bright white and unbroken.

EngineCritical

2.0T timing-chain tensioner failure (early EA888) — risk of chain jump.

Timing chain, tensioner & guides£900–£2,400

Inspect · Listen for cold-start rattle; confirm the updated tensioner was fitted.

Emissions (TDI models)High

DPF blockage or EGR valve failure causing limp mode, poor running, and illuminated warning lights.

DPF forced regen or replacement£250–£1,600

Inspect · Start the engine from cold. Check the instrument cluster for a flashing glow plug light or DPF symbol, and ensure a smooth, stable idle.

Front SuspensionMedium

Knocking noises over speed bumps and a vague feeling in the steering caused by worn upper and lower control arm bushes.

Suspension refresh (per axle)£250–£1,100

Inspect · Drive at 5-10 mph on the forecourt and jab the footbrake sharply. Listen for a distinct clunk from the front wheel arches.

BodyLow

Sunroof drain blockage causing leaks.

Water-ingress trace & seal£150–£800

Inspect · Check the headliner and footwells for damp.

EngineHigh

2.0T oil consumption (piston-ring related on early cars).

Oil leak trace & seal / gasket£180–£700

Inspect · Check oil level and any ring/consumption history.

Ranges are indicative parts-and-labour costs at a UK independent garage, inclusive of VAT. Franchised dealers typically sit 40–80% higher, and prestige or electrified variants sit at the top of each band. Always get a written quote before committing.

Inspecting a Audi Q5 this week?

Build a tickable checklist for the exact car in front of you, record faults with photos, and hand the buyer a report.