Audi Q5 and SQ5 Rear Subframe Corrosion Alert (Short)

We are investigating reported concerns involving certain Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles relating to alleged defects affecting the vehicles' rear subframe assemblies. If your vehicle is affected, you may contact us confidentially and free of charge.

No lawsuit has been filed and no class proceeding has been certified in British Columbia.

Audi Q5 and SQ5 Rear Subframe Corrosion Investigation (Detailed)

Our firm is reviewing reported concerns involving certain Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles relating to alleged defects affecting the vehicles' rear subframe assemblies and structural components. If you have experienced severe rear subframe corrosion, failed safety inspections, costly rear subframe repairs, or related issues, you may contact us confidentially and free of charge. No lawsuit has been filed and no class proceeding has been certified in British Columbia.

Potential Automotive Class Proceeding Under Investigation: Audi Q5 and SQ5 Rear Subframe Corrosion Defect (Main)

Our firm is currently investigating a potential Canada-wide class proceeding in British Columbia concerning certain:

−       2009-2017 Audi Q5

−       2014-2017 Audi SQ5

vehicles and reported issues affecting the vehicles' rear subframe assemblies.

According to reports reviewed to date, certain affected vehicles may contain a rear subframe design that permits water, moisture, road salt, and debris to accumulate between the steel rear subframe and plastic covers attached to the subframe. It is alleged that, over time, these materials may become trapped against the steel structure, accelerating corrosion while concealing deterioration from ordinary inspection.

The rear subframe is a significant structural component of the vehicle. It supports portions of the suspension, drivetrain, rear axle, and related vehicle systems, while also contributing to crash-energy management and vehicle stability.

Reports reviewed to date suggest that corrosion may develop beneath the plastic covers over an extended period and remain hidden from view until significant deterioration has occurred. In some instances, owners have reportedly discovered severe rust, cracks, holes, perforation, or structural weakening only after the plastic covers were removed during service or inspection.

Our firm is investigating whether severe corrosion of the rear subframe may result in:

−       Premature rear subframe deterioration;

−       Cracks, perforation, or structural weakening of the subframe;

−       Failed vehicle safety inspections;

−       Costly rear subframe replacement repairs;

−       Diminished vehicle value;

−       Loss of use; and

−       Potential vehicle safety concerns.

Our firm is also investigating whether severe corrosion of the rear subframe may impair suspension integrity, drivetrain support components, crashworthiness, and overall vehicle safety. In extreme circumstances, it is alleged that a severely compromised subframe may fail while driving, potentially affecting vehicle control and creating a significant safety hazard.

Reports reviewed to date further indicate that replacement of a severely corroded rear subframe may require substantial labor and disassembly of suspension, drivetrain, and related components. Repair costs may amount to several thousand dollars depending on the extent of corrosion and any associated damage. The materials reviewed to date suggest that replacement costs may range from approximately $4,000 to $9,000 or more in some circumstances.

This investigation is ongoing and is being conducted to determine whether the legal requirements under British Columbia's Class Proceedings Act are met, including whether common issues exist and whether a class proceeding would be the preferable procedure.

If you own or lease an affected Audi Q5 or SQ5 and have experienced rear subframe corrosion, failed inspections, unusual suspension concerns, costly repairs, or related issues, you may contact our firm to share your experience. Providing information is confidential, free of charge, and does not obligate you to retain our firm or participate in any legal proceeding.

This page will be updated as our investigation progresses.

This webpage is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions – Audi Q5 and SQ5 Rear Subframe Corrosion Investigation

What is the issue being investigated?

Our firm is reviewing reports that certain Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles may experience premature corrosion of the rear subframe assembly. It is alleged that moisture, road salt, and debris may become trapped between the steel subframe and attached plastic covers, potentially accelerating corrosion over time.

Has a class proceeding been filed?

No. At this time, our firm is only conducting a preliminary investigation. No Notice of Civil Claim has been filed and no class proceeding has been certified in British Columbia.

What does "certification" mean?

Certification is a procedural step where the Supreme Court of British Columbia determines whether a lawsuit may proceed as a class proceeding. Certification addresses procedural issues such as commonality of claims and whether a class proceeding is the preferable procedure. It does not determine liability or damages.

Which vehicles are included in the investigation?

The investigation currently concerns:

−       2009–2017 Audi Q5 vehicles; and

−       2014–2017 Audi SQ5 vehicles.

The scope of the investigation may evolve as additional information becomes available.

What symptoms or issues have been reported?

Reported issues may include:

−       Severe rust or corrosion underneath the vehicle;

−       Corrosion hidden beneath plastic subframe covers;

−       Cracks, holes, or perforation of the rear subframe;

−       Failed safety inspections;

−       Suspension-related concerns; and

−       Costly rear subframe replacement repairs.

Could the issue affect vehicle safety?

According to reports reviewed to date, severe corrosion of the rear subframe may affect a critical structural component of the vehicle. We are investigating whether the reported condition may impair suspension integrity, structural strength, crashworthiness, or overall vehicle safety.

How much can repairs cost?

Reports reviewed to date indicate that replacement of a severely corroded rear subframe may cost several thousand dollars. The materials reviewed to date suggest that repairs may range from approximately $4,000 to $9,000 or more depending on the extent of corrosion and associated damage.

How can I provide information to the firm?

If you own or lease an affected Audi Q5 or SQ5 and have experienced rear subframe corrosion or related issues, you may contact our firm to share your experience. This is confidential, free of charge, and does not obligate you to participate in any legal proceeding or retain our firm.

Will I automatically be part of a class proceeding if one is certified?

Individuals who fall within the class definition are typically included automatically unless they choose to opt out, subject to the court's order.