- Why should you avoid a used 2013 Audi Q5?
- Q5 Technical service bulletins (TSBs)
- Alternative 1. 2016 Volvo XC60
- Alternative 2. 2012 Lexus RX
- Avoid the 2013 Audi Q5 for its unreliability
If you want to buy a used luxury SUV, the 2013 Audi Q5 seems like a great choice. It has a well-appointed interior, a spacious and quiet cabin, impressive fuel efficiency, and a powerful engine that makes it fun to drive. Unfortunately, much of that driving will likely be to your mechanic because the 2013 Q5 is unreliable. It will cost too much to maintain.
Let’s discuss why you should avoid the used 2013 Audi Q5 and suggest two better alternatives recommended by Consumer Reports.
Why should you avoid a used 2013 Audi Q5?
An Audi Q5 in New Delhi dealership | Graham Crouch/Bloomberg via Getty Images
It would be best to avoid the 2013 Audi Q5 because it is unreliable. According to Car Problem Zoo, the five most reported problems of the 2013 Q5 concern:
- Engine and engine cooling
- Steering
- Electrical system
- Equipment
- Fuel system
Several 2013 Q5 owners have reported experiencing coolant pump failure, which can cause their engines to overheat. Some even noticed visible coolant leaks. Many owners also experienced issues with their equipment and fuel systems.
One of the most concerning problems with the 2013 Q5 is the reports of the steering disabling itself while driving. This issue poses a severe safety risk.
Q5 Technical service bulletins (TSBs)
TSBs are reports issued by automakers to their dealerships to notify them of a known problem with a specific vehicle model and outline instructions for repairing them or providing updates. They can also offer guidance on how to prevent the problem from occurring. They can be found online.
TSBs are issued following a growing trend of problems. So, the more the TSBs, the more the issues. According to Audi Complaints, the 2013 Audi Q5 has been assigned 913 TSBs, the most of all Q5 model years. It has also been recalled five times.
So, your quest for the comfort, technology, and safety features offered by a luxury SUV for less than the cost of a new model won’t be fulfilled by a used 2013 Audi Q5. Instead, consider the two Consumer Reports recommendations below.
Alternative 1. 2016 Volvo XC60
The 2016 Volvo XC60 is a small luxury crossover SUV with a spacious, well-designed cabin with supportive and comfortable seats.
It has seating for five, generous cargo space, and better fuel efficiency than the 2013 Audi Q5, making it an excellent option for a family-friendly vehicle. Its sleek design, stylish cabin, high-quality materials, and attractive finishing make it an appealing option for a luxury SUV. However, rear legroom is somewhat limited.
The 2016 XC60 is sold in five trim levels with multiple engine options, including the T5 Drive-E, T5 AWD, T6 Drive-E, T6 AWD, and T6 AWD R-Design.
Alternative 2. 2012 Lexus RX
Related
The 2012 Lexus RX boasts a sleek exterior, well-appointed interior, roomy cabin, and ample cargo space. It is offered in one trim level and seats five, with an optional third row if you need it for your family.
The interior features high-quality leather and a rich finish and is equipped with tech features like Lexus Remote Touch controller for navigation, an advanced infotainment system, and rear-seat video screens. It is an excellent alternative to the 2013 Q5 as they are similar in size and fuel efficiency.
The Lexus is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions and is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. The RX’s ride is notably smooth and quiet, and the transmission operates seamlessly, making it well-suited as a cruiser.
Avoid the 2013 Audi Q5 for its unreliability
According to Consumer Reports, avoid the 2013 Audi Q5 because of its poor reliability if you want to purchase a used luxury SUV. It has frequently reported problems concerning the engine, steering, electrical system, equipment, and fuel system. It can be costly if you don’t buy a secondary warranty.
Instead, consider the two better alternatives: the 2016 Volvo XC60 and the 2012 Lexus RX. Both vehicles offer spacious cabins, high-quality materials, advanced technology, and, most importantly, are reliable.
Keyword: Avoid the Used 2013 Audi Q5 for These 2 Better SUVs, According to Consumer Reports