2012 Q5 3.2 reliability

[03TLSinCO]

Looking at a 2012 Q5 with ~135k on it. What issues typically arise with these vehicles at the mileage climbs? I believe the 3.2 engine is supposed to be pretty solid, correct? What should I look out for? Thanks.

[lumberwood]

I believe that's the last year that engine was offered so you'd be getting the most refined version available (all the bugs worked out). If well cared for, all recommended maintenance complete to-date, the 3.2 is often a very reliable motor. No pesky boost-induced PCV issues or eventual turbo failures. No timing chain issues. The 3.2 also didn't suffer the terrible oil consumption of the 2.0.

My 2011 has been a dream so far #knockwood
Nice power from a relatively small NA motor. Sport mode is well tuned. I never hesitate to pass a slower vehicle on 2 lane Hwy.

[Norskie]

IIRC carbon build up and oil leaks are the main boogymen of the 3.2 ... and to a lessor degree timing chain stretch. Not as bad as the 2.0T, but much more difficult to address.

[03TLSinCO]

Thanks for the responses. I always ask for maintenance records where available, number of previous owners, how long current owner has had it etc., so I hope to be able to find out about service history. I'll look for signs of oil leaks and listen for timing chain stretch to the extent I can. Will also probably have my mechanic to an inspection on it if the answers I get sound reasonable.

Appreciate any additional feedback others may have as well!

[Norskie]

and listen for timing chain stretch to the extent I can. Will also probably have my mechanic to an inspection on it if the answers I get sound reasonable.

You'll need VCDS (or equivalent) to view how much the cam phasers compensate for chain stretch; from the 2.0 and 3.0 we look for no more than 5 degrees (assuming it's the same with the 3.2?)

[03TLSinCO]

You'll need VCDS (or equivalent) to view how much the cam phasers compensate for chain stretch; from the 2.0 and 3.0 we look for no more than 5 degrees (assuming it's the same with the 3.2?)

Thanks. I have a VCDS, but this would use my last VIN. Do I need to register the VIN to check that?

[Norskie]

Thanks. I have a VCDS, but this would use my last VIN. Do I need to register the VIN to check that?

I don't know for sure but probably - but you can also rent a vcds for $30 or so.