If you've been searching for an Audi Q5 FY review or wondering what owners think of the Q5 2.0 TDI 190 hp, you're certainly not alone. And I can see why. We're talking about Audi's best-selling SUV, a car that combines the comfort of a family car with the build quality and driving experience you'd expect from the brand. The second-generation Q5, known as the FY, has been in production since 2017. It comes with a 2.0 TDI (150–204 hp), 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TDI V6 and plug-in hybrid, while newer versions also offer mild-hybrid technology. But is it really as good as it looks? I'll tell you what we see at Das Auto Service and what I'd look out for if I were buying one myself.
Who is the Audi Q5 FY right for?
If you've got a family, do plenty of travelling and want a comfortable car that makes long journeys a pleasure, the Q5 is a very sensible choice. You get a lovely interior, enjoyable handling and quattro all-wheel drive, without having to drive something as big as a Q7. That's one of the reasons so many people choose it. It's not too big, but you don't have to sacrifice comfort either. Especially if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel.
Which automatic gearboxes and quattro systems does the Audi Q5 FY use?
There's something important I want you to understand here. Not every Q5 has the same automatic gearbox or the same quattro system. And that makes a difference, both to how the car drives and how you need to maintain it. So when you're looking at adverts, don't just see "automatic, quattro" and assume you know what you're getting.
- Four-cylinder versions use a 7-speed S tronic gearbox and quattro ultra. S tronic is a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, while quattro ultra engages the rear axle when it's needed.
- The V6 TDI uses an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox and permanent quattro. It's a different type of automatic gearbox and a different way of driving all four wheels.
Both setups have their advantages. What matters is knowing exactly what you're buying, because you'll be the one paying to maintain it. And surprises after you've bought a car are rarely the pleasant kind.
What problems does our Audi Q5 FY review reveal?
The Q5 FY is a well-developed car, but that doesn't mean there's nothing to check. There are several systems I pay particular attention to, especially on diesel versions. Not because every Q5 will necessarily have problems with them, but because I want to know what condition they're in before the owner gets an unpleasant surprise.
AdBlue and NOx sensors
On the 2.0 TDI, the AdBlue system and NOx sensors deserve a proper check. AdBlue helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions, while the NOx sensors monitor how well the system is working. When something goes wrong, you may see a warning on the dashboard that you really shouldn't ignore. Especially if it starts counting down to the point where the engine can no longer be started. I've explained exactly what happens in my article about AdBlue on the 2.0 TDI EA288.
The DPF
The DPF is the filter that traps soot from a diesel engine's exhaust gases. If you read owners' groups, you'll often come across advice like "just remove the DPF" or "give it one regeneration and it'll be fine". I'm not a fan of diagnosing cars like that, without checking anything first. We need to understand what condition the system is in and why the problem has appeared. If you'd rather avoid paying for repairs you don't actually need, have a read of what you need to know about the DPF.
The mild-hybrid system
Newer versions also come with mild-hybrid technology. This means an electrical system has been added to help the car's normal powertrain do its job. It's not the same as a plug-in hybrid, which you can charge from an external power source. You need to know exactly what's under the bonnet rather than assuming all hybrids work the same way. I've explained more about the 48 V system in my article on the 48 V starter-generator.
quattro ultra
With quattro ultra, clutches automatically engage and disengage the rear axle. The idea is that the car uses all-wheel drive when it needs it. But this system also has oil that needs changing. My recommendation is to change the oil in the rear quattro ultra drive system every 30,000 km. Don't wait until something goes wrong before discovering that this part of your car needs looking after too.
What should I check before buying an Audi Q5 FY?
If you've found a Q5 you like, don't rush to put down a deposit just because it looks fantastic in the photos. I want you to know what you're actually buying, not just what the seller has promised you. With this model, I'd start with the following checks.
- A full diagnostic check, paying particular attention to AdBlue, the DPF and S tronic. Someone saying "I've plugged it into a diagnostic tool and there are no faults" simply isn't enough.
- Check the service history with an authorised Audi dealer. This will give you a much clearer picture of how the car has been looked after.
- Check whether all service campaigns have been carried out. That's something I certainly wouldn't skip before buying.
I've explained the whole process in more detail on our pre-purchase inspectionpage. I'd much rather we find a problem before you've bought the car than have you wondering where to start with the repairs afterwards.
How should I service my Audi Q5 FY to make it last?
I've got a very clear opinion on this. Don't just look at the maximum service interval the manufacturer allows. Those intervals also take environmental requirements into account, while my priority is making sure your engine and gearbox last as long as possible. That's why, at our workshop, I recommend the following.
- Engine oil and all filters – oil, fuel, air and cabin – should be changed every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. This applies regardless of which engine oil you use or what the LongLife service interval says.
- S tronic – change the gearbox oil every 60,000 km, always using genuine oil, followed by a gearbox adaptation after servicing.
- Tiptronic on the V6 – change the gearbox oil every 120,000 km, followed by an adaptation after servicing.
- Brake fluid – every 2 years, and coolant – every third heating season.
- Workshop inspection – every 6 months, so we can catch developing problems before they become serious.
If you drive the diesel version, you can also read my detailed Audi Q5 FY 2.0 TDI service schedule. Maintenance isn't where I'd try to save money. Especially when we're talking about an automatic gearbox and a complicated all-wheel-drive system.
IMPORTANT! If an AdBlue warning light comes on and a countdown begins, don't put off getting the car diagnosed. Once that countdown reaches zero, the car won't allow the engine to be started again. You really don't want to discover that when you're stuck in a car park.
What's my verdict on the Audi Q5 FY?
Yes, I like the Audi Q5 FY. It's a well-developed, comfortable, well-built SUV that makes a lot of sense for families and people who travel regularly. If you're looking for the sensible choice, I'd go for the 2.0 TDI. If you want a bit more enjoyment from the engine, the V6 TDI is another interesting option. But whichever one you choose, I'd much rather buy a car with a proven service history and good mechanical condition than simply pick the shiniest example in the adverts.
Tip from Kris Mladenov: Before buying, ask when the S tronic gearbox oil was last changed and whether there's paperwork to prove it. If you don't get a clear answer, don't automatically assume the gearbox has been serviced. With these cars, cutting corners on maintenance can end up costing you far more than the service itself.
I hope you've found this article helpful! If you have, I'd really appreciate you sharing it with a friend who owns an Audi Q5 or is thinking of buying one. My mission is simple: when I know something useful, I want more people to know it too. Because having the right information can save you a lot of headaches and a lot of money out of your own pocket.
The solution in our shop
Genuine Longlife III FE 0W30 oil 5L
Genuine LongLife III engine oil is a product used for engine servicing. What matters is choosing the correct oil for your particular engine and never putting off the oil change beyond 10,000 km or once a year.
View in shop
Genuine VAG AdBlue® fluid G052910M4 10l
Genuine AdBlue in a 10-litre container is intended for diesel versions equipped with an AdBlue system. Use the correct product and never ignore the warnings on your dashboard.
View in shopRead more
- Pre-purchase inspection
- Routine servicing
- Audi Q5 FY 2.0 TDI Service Schedule
- AdBlue No Start in 1000 km: 2.0 TDI (EA288)
- Audi 48V Mild Hybrid Problems: A6, A7, A8 and Q7
Frequently asked questions
What are the common problems with the Audi Q5 FY?
On diesel versions, I pay particular attention to the AdBlue system, NOx sensors and DPF. I also check the S tronic gearbox and the condition of the quattro ultra system, where fitted.
Should I choose the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI 190 hp or 204 hp?
Both are diesel versions of the Q5 FY. Personally, I'd put the service history and the car's actual mechanical condition ahead of the difference in power.
Audi Q5 2.0 TDI or 3.0 TDI?
For me, the 2.0 TDI is the sensible choice for everyday driving and family trips. The V6 TDI is the one to consider if you want a bit more enjoyment from the engine and prefer the Tiptronic gearbox with permanent quattro.
How often should I change the S tronic gearbox oil on an Audi Q5?
I recommend changing it every 60,000 km using genuine oil. A gearbox adaptation must always be carried out after servicing.