NHTSA Complaint #11706954 — 2022 AUDI Q5

Vehicle: 2022 Audi Q5 (VIN [XXX] ) Mileage at incident: ~20,000 Component: Powertrain – Engine / Turbocharger – Sudden Loss of Power NARRATIVE: On or about [XXX], my 2022 Audi Q5 experienced a sudden loss of engine power while driving approximately 60 mph. The vehicle began vibrating/shaking severely, jerking on acceleration, and displayed warnings including “Drive system: Please switch engine off” along with a check engine light. The vehicle entered reduced power/limp mode, creating a hazardous situation in traffic at highway speeds. The vehicle was taken to an authorized Audi dealer in Wayzata BLVD Minneapolis who diagnosed catastrophic internal engine failure and documented metallic debris in the engine oil. Audi replaced the engine with a new long block (warranty repair). However, despite confirmed metal contamination in the oil system, Audi directed the dealer to flush and reuse the turbocharger rather than replace it. The turbocharger is supplied by engine oil and may retain embedded metal in its bearing assembly, creating an ongoing risk of turbo bearing seizure/failure and another sudden loss of power at highway speed. I am reporting this because (1) the vehicle already experienced sudden power loss at highway speed, and (2) the repair decision to reuse a contamination-exposed turbocharger may create continued risk of sudden loss of power and unsafe operation. Dealer repair: Engine replaced; turbocharger reused after “flush.” Current safety status: I do not feel the vehicle is safe for highway driving due to risk of turbo failure and sudden power loss. Requested action: Please log and review similar complaints for potential investigation related to sudden loss of power and contamination-exposed turbo reuse in warranty repairs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)