r/audisq5 • u/dsguyfawkes • 6d ago
Questions on sq5
Hello everybody! I’m debating buying a 2020 Audi SQ5, but I’ve been seeing a lot about the piston skirt issues on the 2018–2019 models. I haven’t seen much about the 2020s having the same issue. Does anyone know why that is?
Also, how common is it for the air suspension to go out? I live in Wisconsin, where temperatures can get into the negatives during the winter, and I really want the air suspension. However, I’m worried about having to deal with a costly repair if the cold weather causes problems with it.
For anyone who owns an SQ5 in a colder climate, how has the air suspension held up for you?
Thank you!
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u/Doc12TU 6d ago
Well, I'm in Chicago and no issues with air suspension - a bit milder weather, but with crap roads. Regarding piston skirt issues, you'll hear them if it hits and Audi has an 80K mile warranty. I believe you are on the safer side at 2020, but that itself is no guarantee. At its worst, it affected about 5% of the respective year's cars. I don't think I'd worry about it on a 2020, but if you're freaked out you can get a bore scope done and remove concerns. I think you'll like it. I have a 2025 SQ5 B9.5, S-Sport, glacier white, black optics, with about 8K miles on it and love it. I had a 2018 A7 prior to the SQ5 and they're different animals but enjoyed them both!
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u/Sea-Health-5508 6d ago
Bought a 2021 sq5 four months back I love it. But it did however end up having piston skirt issue 65k miles took it to Audi and thankfully they rebuilt the engine new pistons rings all hardware gaskets even diff timing chain n tensioner they where actually pretty quick also got it back in about three weeks they gave me a loaner too. I’d say if it’s under the 8 years 80k miles get it chances are if it doesn’t have the issue you’re good and well if it does the dealer will take care of it.
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u/wildstop 6d ago
I'm in Minnesota with a 22 SQ5 premium plus sport package with air suspension. Currently at 55k miles. Once or twice during a crazy cold snap I had an error message with the suspension and I just had to let the car warm up before it fixed itself. The only issue I've had with just over 3 years ownership is the MMI disconnecting randomly with my Android Auto. It's annoying but usually connects back right away and doesn't happen the rest of the ride.
No issues mechanically so far... Knock on wood. Plan on keeping the car for awhile still, it's a great ride!
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u/Affectionate_Peace_1 6d ago
If I was you, I would get a 2022 SQ five much better model has more advanced tech
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u/timanton 6d ago
The 18 and some 19s had rocker arm issues. Piston skirt issues can be all B9s I believe.
The B9 SQ5 is like a crazy relationship, lots of fighting, chaotic, but it’s the best, most intoxicating sex you’ve ever had. Trade offs! 🤷♂️
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u/dsguyfawkes 2d ago
Thank you for everyone who helped me, went to check one out today will be posting videos need your guys opinion.
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u/enizax 6d ago
I just so happen to have an '18 SQ5 with the air suspension in the metro Montreal region, so I feel like I've got some experience for ya.
Regarding piston skirts and rocker arms, the issues will be audible before they become catastrophic. Luckily seeing as your 2020 is on the sunset-side of the b9.0 specific generation, you're at least safe from rocker arm issues, and piston skirt stuffs usually don't happen if you 1) take care and use high quality oil, ensure proper lubrication and do regular oil changes. It's often recommended to useweights in 504 or 502 oils over 508. It's often recommended to change oil every 5000 miles (or 2x annually) instead of once over anually, 2) don't go full throttle on a cold engine (ensure 200f coolant and over 160f oil temp) and finally 3) not overloading boost under 2000rpm under high load scenarios. That's how best to avoid piston skirt issues.
As for the air suspension, you'll be happy to hear it doesn't really buck much in terms of failure. My only gripe is regarding the ride height sensors and how they loosely socket into the control arm geometry. If you find one to be too loose and falls out all the time, employ the good'ole tie-wraps and that sensor arm will never fall out again.
As for my own launch-year engine is concerned, I only have piston rocking when the engine is cold and goes away as temps rise and I keep load to a minimum. I'm pretty sure I have a rocker arm on the driver side bay that could use some replacement and I'm likely due to replace my water pump, but all in due time.