Audi Announces Recall Due to Fire Risk
The Audi company has initiated a recall of 89,417 Q5 and Q5 Sportback model vehicles due to a potential fire hazard. The problem is related to the improper tightening of the cylinder head cover screws, which over time can lead to their loosening and engine oil leakage.
Owners of the affected vehicles will receive a notification starting July 8 with a recommendation to contact a dealer for inspection and repair. As noted, if oil comes into contact with hot engine components, there is a risk of ignition.
Owners should stop driving and immediately park their Q5 if they notice smoke in the engine bay. An unusual odor coming from the engine could also indicate the issue.
Chronology of the Problem Discovery
The first customer complaints were received as early as May 2023. A technical bulletin for dealers, which provided for screw inspection, was issued in January 2024. Subsequently, 2,539 warranty cases and 11 cases of fire were recorded, however, with no injuries.
The recall includes vehicles from model years 2022-2024. Dealerships have already received instructions to check the tightening torque of the screws and replace them if necessary. The manufacturer emphasizes that new tightening specifications will eliminate the potential danger.
This situation has become another challenge for one of the brand’s most popular crossovers, especially in the American market. Despite the absence of injuries, the scale of the recall and the number of registered cases confirm the seriousness of the technical flaw. The company demonstrates a readiness to respond promptly, which may mitigate a loss of consumer trust in the model.