2014 Audi SQ5 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2014 Audi SQ5: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 Audi SQ5 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2014 Audi SQ5 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2014 Audi SQ5?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2014 Audi SQ5, the first step is to assess the situation calmly. Begin by checking for any obvious issues, such as a loose gas cap, which is a common and easily fixable problem. If the light is flashing, this indicates a more serious issue that requires immediate attention, so prioritize addressing that. Next, consider using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, which will provide insight into the specific problems affecting your vehicle. This diagnostic tool can help you pinpoint whether the issue lies within the emission system, ignition system, or other critical components. After identifying the trouble codes, research the potential fixes, starting with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex repairs. Regular maintenance is also crucial; adhering to your Audi's service schedule can prevent many issues that trigger the check engine light. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the check engine light, ensuring your Audi SQ5 remains in optimal condition.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2014 Audi SQ5?

When the Check Engine light appears on your 2014 Audi SQ5, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common triggers can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is worn spark plugs or malfunctioning sensors, which can disrupt engine performance and emissions. Additionally, a loose gas cap is a surprisingly common issue that can easily be overlooked; ensuring it is tightened can sometimes resolve the warning light. Other potential problems include complications with the fuel injection system or damaged components that may require further investigation. A more complex issue could involve the Secondary Air Injection (SAI) system, which can become clogged with carbon deposits, necessitating a thorough cleaning of the cylinder head passages. For those looking to diagnose the problem themselves, utilizing an ODBII Bluetooth dongle paired with a smartphone app can provide valuable diagnostic codes, helping you pinpoint the exact issue triggering the Check Engine light. By being aware of these common problems, you can take proactive steps to address them, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2014 Audi SQ5?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2014 Audi SQ5, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light serves as a vital alert from your vehicle's onboard computer, indicating that something is amiss. Ignoring this signal can lead to escalating issues, ranging from minor inconveniences like a loose gas cap to severe engine malfunctions that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. A flashing check engine light, in particular, signifies a critical problem that requires urgent attention, as it may indicate a catastrophic misfire that could cause extensive damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to diagnose the underlying issue, ensuring that you maintain optimal performance and avoid costly repairs down the line. Prioritizing this check not only safeguards your investment but also enhances your safety on the road.

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