Fire is an integral aspect of making most modern cars work. The key is that the fire is contained in the engine, hence the internal part of internal combustion. Fire outside the engine is a very serious problem. That’s why Audi is recalling 2022 to 2024 Audi Q5 SUVs, both standard and Sportback. Apparently they have a problem that could lead to an oil leak and fire, and there have even been a few reported incidents. The total number of SUVs affected is 89,417.
What Went Wrong
The main issue is that the engine cylinder head cover (a.k.a. a cam or valve cover) can start leaking oil. This is the very top component of the engine that covers the camshafts and valves and allows those components to be oiled without sloshing oil into the engine bay or stuff getting into those components and oil. Audi began getting reports of oil leakage back in 2023, and it was able to determine that the screws holding the cover down were loosening.
The reason for this took some time to sort out. According to the company’s chronology report, it initially found screws with burrs left over from manufacturing. The company suspected that those burrs were causing damage to threads and allowing the screws to loosen. But with continuing complaints, further investigation found some issues with the installation process and screws not always being torqued properly. The problem also resulted in a total of 11 reported “thermal events,” which means some amount of fire. The good news is that no one has suffered any injuries nor has anyone died as a result, but actual fire incidents are very concerning.
It Should Be An Easy Fix
The good news is that the fix should be quick and easy. Owners can bring their Q5 to their dealer, and the service technicians will go through the screws and inspect them. If any show damage, they’ll be replaced. The technicians will also make sure they’ve been torqued down correctly after inspection. Once that’s done, there shouldn’t be any risk of oil leakage anymore, and thus no more risk of fire. Like other recalls, the repairs will be completely free for the owners. Owners of affected cars can call Audi at 1-800-253-2834 if they have any questions, and the reference number for the recall is 15ZK.
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