The second-generation Audi Q5 with the 2.0 TDI is a modern, economical SUV. But here's the thing! You've now got more electronics, AdBlue, a newer gearbox and quattro ultra. That makes servicing a bit more involved than on the old Q5. Follow the Audi Q5 FY 2.0 TDI service schedule, know what to check and when to replace it, and your car will look after you for years. Just don't keep putting things off.
What should you know about the engine?
The 2.0 TDI belongs to the EA288 engine family. You've got a timing belt, a DPF and an SCR system that uses AdBlue. Newer versions also have a 12-volt mild hybrid system. The important things are using the correct engine oil and regularly taking the car out for a proper run beyond the city. Your TDI needs that kind of driving too.
When should you change the engine oil?
My advice is simple: if you drive in Bulgaria, change the engine oil and oil filter every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first, regardless of which oil you use. The oil must meet the specification in your owner's manual. Nothing complicated, but please don't put it off. It's these little things that keep your engine healthy.
How do we service the S tronic and quattro ultra?
The Q5 FY 2.0 TDI has a seven-speed S tronic gearbox with wet clutches. The factory service schedule sets the oil change interval, but I'd advise you not to go beyond 60,000 km. After servicing, we always carry out a gearbox adaptation. Because you can't just drain the old oil, pour in the new stuff and say, "Job done."
With quattro ultra, a clutch engages the rear wheels only when they're needed. But this system has its own oil too, and you need to change it every 30,000 km. Don't forget about it.
What else needs replacing?
- AdBlue — top it up when the car tells you it's time.
- Fuel filter, air filter and cabin filter — we replace these according to the service schedule.
- Crankcase ventilation filter — we replace it every 80,000 km.
- Timing belt, tensioners, rollers and water pump — we replace them together at 180,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first.
- Brake fluid — we change it every two years.
- Coolant — we change it every third heating season.
What do we check during a service?
- The AdBlue system — we check that the sensors and heater are working properly.
- The DPF — we pay particular attention to it if you mainly drive around town.
- The EGR cooler on the EA288 engine.
Don't ignore the AdBlue warning when the car starts counting down the kilometres until it won't restart. Once that countdown reaches zero, the engine won't start. Please don't let it get that far.
A tip from Kris Mladenov: Only use AdBlue from a sealed container. And be careful not to let any dust get into the filler opening. It's a small precaution, but an important one.
If you drive an Audi Q5 FY 2.0 TDI, bring it to Das Auto Service for a service. We'll check the engine, gearbox and AdBlue system so you know exactly what condition your car is in and what maintenance is coming up. No more guessing.
What you'll find in our shop
Genuine Longlife III FE 0W30 engine oil 5L
Genuine Longlife III engine oil that meets the required specification for the 2.0 TDI EA288.
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Genuine S-Tronic dual-clutch gearbox oil G052529A2 1l
Genuine S tronic gearbox oil that we use when servicing the gearbox.
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Genuine VAG G12Evo coolant G12E050A2 1.0l
Genuine G12evo coolant, which we replace every third heating season.
View in our shopFurther reading
- Routine servicing at Das Auto Service
- Gearbox servicing
- Audi A4 B9 2.0 TDI service schedule
- AdBlue on the 2.0 TDI (EA288): No engine restart in 1,000 km
- Audi Q5 8R 2.0 TDI service schedule
- Audi Q3 8U 2.0 TDI service schedule
- Škoda Octavia 4 2.0 TDI service schedule
Frequently asked questions
Does the Q5 FY 2.0 TDI use AdBlue?
Yes. The AdBlue filler cap is blue, and you'll find it right next to the fuel filler cap.
What is quattro ultra?
It's a system that engages the rear wheels through a clutch when they're needed. When you don't need four-wheel drive, it helps the car save fuel.
When should I change the S tronic gearbox oil?
The factory service schedule is the starting point, but I recommend changing it no later than 60,000 km. After the oil change, we always carry out a gearbox adaptation.