2016 Audi SQ5: known problems and what to check
Too few Audi SQ5 cars first registered in 2016 had an MOT during 2025 for reliable MOT figures. Here’s what we do know about the 2016 Audi SQ5, and what to check before you buy one.
Known faults on the 2016 Audi SQ5
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- S tronic automatic
S tronic control unit failure
The S tronic automatic can suffer costly control unit failures.
At the viewing: Drive in traffic and check changes are smooth, with no jerks or warning lights.
Source: Auto Express: used Audi Q5 (Mk1, 2008-2016) what to look out for
- All engines
Worn front ball joints
Creaky front suspension is usually worn ball joints, which can make the steering vague.
At the viewing: Listen for creaks over bumps and feel for vague steering.
Source: Auto Express: used Audi Q5 (Mk1, 2008-2016) what to look out for
- All engines
Airbag and heater recalls
There were recalls for airbags not deploying properly and for the air con’s auxiliary heater, plus a 2015 recall for possible fuel leaks.
At the viewing: Make sure the airbag light goes out, and ask for proof the recalls were done.
Source: Auto Express: used Audi Q5 (Mk1, 2008-2016) what to look out for
- All engines
Paint lifting on the wheel arches
On cars that are jet-washed a lot, paint can come off the wheel arch lips and they can rust.
At the viewing: Look closely at the edges of all four wheel arches.
Source: Auto Express: used Audi Q5 (Mk1, 2008-2016) what to look out for
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2016 Audi SQ5
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Has the gearbox had any work, and has its oil been changed on time?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
What to check on a 2016 car
- MOT history
Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.
- Service history
Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.
- Finance and write-offs
MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.
- Test drive
Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.
Looking at an Audi SQ5?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Audi SQ5 compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | 497 | Tyres 18% |
| 2021 | 1,030 | Tyres 17% |
| 2020 | 1,290 | Tyres 18% |
| 2019 | 295 | Tyres 14% |
| 2018 | – | Too few tests |
| 2017 | – | Too few tests |
| 2015 | 113 | Suspension 23% |
| 2014 | 1,077 | Tyres 20% |
| 2013 | 292 | Suspension 24% |
Where this comes from: how many are on the road is from the Department for Transport’s vehicle licensing statistics (DVLA records), counted by the year each car was first registered. Known faults are from UK buying guides, in our own words, with links. How we score