DIY Servicing: Audi Q5 S line+ 3.0 TDI
You can service the current generation of Audi’s crossover SUV at home – up to a point. Modern technology does make certain aspects less Diyfriendly, says Richard Gunn.
The Q5 is Audi’s entry in the luxury crossover market for compact SUVS. Actually, ‘compact’ is a little misleading, since it’s a substantial machine incorporating the Audi A4 to A8 platforms that were also used for the Q7 and the Porsche Macan. It’s about as compact as a modern MINI is mini!
The Q5 was first seen in concept form at the 2007 Los Angeles Motor Show, albeit as a two-door convertible. The actual production version appeared the following year at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, a sign of how important China was as an emerging market to manufacturers such as Audi. Engines ranged from 2.0-litre petrols and diesels to a 3.0-litre diesel and 3.2-litre petrol V6. Our model here is the post-2012 facelifted version of the 242bhp 3.0 TDI quattro, with a seven-speed S-tronic transmission. This model has just been superseded by the second-generation version.
The Q5 is a car that packs in a lot of technology, which can be an issue when it comes to home servicing. There’s no engine oil dipstick, for example, and our mechanic at West Street Garage in Stamford told us point-black not to dismantle the rear brakes. If you do, the electronic handbrake motor will just keep winding and you’ll end up damaging both calipers and immobilising the vehicle!
However, if you’re happy to do some jobs yourself and leave others to a garage with the proper diagnostic equipment – or even invest in that tech yourself – you can save some money on servicing. At least you can change the oil… well, once you’ve removed all the underbody covers and located the oil check screen inside!
Equipment required
Jack axle stands oil container/tray sockets and spanners flathead, crosshead and Torx screwdrivers tyre tread depth checker wheel brace antifreeze hydrometer electronic brake/clutch fluid strength checker wire brush abrasive paper Vernier calipers copper grease general purpose grease spray grease LM grease tyre pump torch torque wrench rags for cleaning disposable gloves Suitable diagnostic equipment/fault code reader if available.