Audi recalls 132,000 cars – risk of catching fire

Audi has initiated a recall of 132,000 cars of its Q5 model.

The recall is due to information in EU documents pointing to a potential fire hazard in the engine.

The reason for the recall is due to a manufacturing error where certain cylinder head bolts may have been tightened with incorrect torque.

This can result in the valve cover coming loose, causing engine oil to leak out.

When this oil comes into contact with hot parts of the engine, there is a risk of smoke and, in the worst case, fire.

According to information from the EU, the risk is considered real and the car manufacturer has therefore chosen to take precautions to avoid incidents.

Includes cars from 2020 to 2024

According to the documents, the affected cars were produced between August 17, 2020 and August 23, 2024.

The documentation from the EU states:

– Deviating torque during the tightening process can cause the valve cover bolts to loosen. Engine oil can come out of the valve cover bolts, come into contact with hot parts of the engine, generating smoke or causing a fire.

For now, the recall primarily affects cars in France and certain models sold in Sweden.

Audi has stated that repairs will be carried out at the brand’s own workshops at no cost to owners.

Dealers will contact affected car owners directly.

May have consequences for Danish car owners

However, the recall may also affect Audi Q5 owners from different countries in the future, as similar cases have previously been extended to other markets.

A previous example is BMW’s E46 3 Series, where Danish cars were first covered by a recall of deadly airbags several weeks after the first reports in France.

Audi has not yet stated whether cars outside of EU with the described defect will be recalled, but the development is closely followed by both the press and car owners.