2017 Audi SQ5 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Audi SQ5: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2017 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 2017 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2017 Audi SQ5?

When diagnosing the check engine light on a 2017 Audi SQ5, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit for triggering the light. If the gas cap appears secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which connects to the vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes from the car's computer. These codes are crucial as they provide insights into the specific issues affecting your vehicle. Once you have the codes, research their meanings through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources to gain a clearer understanding of the potential problems. Additionally, inspect basic components such as the battery, spark plugs, and wiring for any visible damage or wear, as these can also contribute to the check engine light activation. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic who can offer advanced diagnostic tools and expertise to accurately identify and address the underlying issue. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light on your Audi SQ5.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Audi SQ5?

When the check engine light appears on your 2017 Audi SQ5, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning can help you address the issue effectively. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the vehicle's evaporative emissions system. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also increase harmful emissions. Problems with the catalytic converter are also significant, as this component plays a vital role in reducing emissions; any inefficiency here can trigger the light. Additionally, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can lead to an improper air-fuel mixture, impacting engine performance. Worn or faulty spark plugs may cause engine misfires, while issues with ignition coils can exacerbate this problem. If you encounter the check engine light, it’s wise to conduct a preliminary inspection of these components before seeking professional help, as addressing these common issues early can save you time and money.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Audi SQ5?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Audi SQ5, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning indicator is not merely a nuisance; it signifies that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this light can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and potential engine damage, which could result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, some issues may pose safety risks, making it imperative to act swiftly. While modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can help identify the root cause of the problem, a DIY approach should still involve a thorough understanding of the potential consequences of neglecting the check engine light. Therefore, if you are considering troubleshooting the issue yourself, it is advisable to first conduct a comprehensive diagnostic check to ensure that you are not overlooking any serious concerns that could affect your vehicle's performance and safety.

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