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michaelmystic1

Q5 Stalling Issue Points to Throttle Body Problems

My 2013 Q5 2.0T has started acting up with engine stalling and rough idle problems. The check engine light is on and the idle speed seems unstable, especially after the engine warms up. It feels like the car wants to die at stops. I suspect its related to the air intake system, possibly the throttle body or a vacuum leak somewhere. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms on their Q5? What did the diagnosis reveal and how much did the repair cost? Looking particularly for feedback from those who had this fixed at a shop recently.

Summary of the thread

A 2013 Q5 2.0T is experiencing engine stalling and rough idle issues, with a check engine light and unstable idle speed, particularly after warming up. The suspected causes include problems with the air intake system, such as a faulty throttle body or vacuum leaks. A similar case on a Q7 revealed a damaged hose causing vacuum leaks, which was resolved by replacing the hose and cleaning the throttle body. The recommendation is to check for vacuum leaks and inspect the throttle body, especially given the whistling noise during acceleration and worsening symptoms with heat.

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4 comment(s)

johnjung1

Had almost the exact same issue on my 2011 Q7 2.0T a few months back. With some experience working on cars, I initially thought it was the throttle body causing the engine stalling, but it turned out to be more specific. The symptoms were identical, unstable idle, rough running when warm, and the check engine light was constantly on. The manifold pressure readings were all over the place when scanned. Took it to my regular workshop where they found a damaged hose connection between the fuel pump and air valve. The old hose had developed tiny cracks causing vacuum leaks. Total repair came to 175 Euro including parts and labor. Quick fix once diagnosed properly, but these symptoms can have multiple causes. Before suggesting specific fixes, could you share: Have you noticed any unusual sounds from the engine bay? Does the problem get worse in any specific conditions? Have you had the check engine code read? Any recent work done on the air intake system? These details would help confirm if your issue matches what I experienced.

michaelmystic1 (community.author)

Just had my regular service at 155629 KM where they checked everything, but the issue started shortly after. The engine makes a slight whistling noise when accelerating, which makes me think there might be an air supply issue. I havent had the codes read yet, but will get that done this week. No recent work on the air intake system before these problems started. The engine stalling gets noticeably worse after driving for about 15 minutes, especially in stop-and-go traffic. When the engine is cold it runs much smoother. Based on what you described, I will have them check specifically for vacuum leaks around the hose connections. That repair cost sounds reasonable if it fixes the problem.

johnjung1

Thanks for the additional details. The whistling noise you described matches exactly what I experienced with my Q7 before getting it fixed. When vacuum hoses start failing, they often create that distinct sound under acceleration due to air leaking where it shouldnt. The pattern of symptoms getting worse with heat also aligns perfectly with what I encountered, the heat makes those small cracks in the hoses expand, leading to more severe vacuum leaks. This explains why the idle problems and engine stalling become more noticeable in stop-and-go traffic when everything heats up. Quick tip from my experience: while checking the vacuum hoses, have them inspect the throttle body too. In my case, the leaking hose had allowed unfiltered air to enter, which left some debris buildup on the throttle plate. A simple throttle body cleaning was included in my repair and helped restore proper idle control. Getting the check engine codes read will definitely help pinpoint the exact issue. In my case, it showed manifold pressure inconsistencies that led straight to those failing hoses. Since your mileage and symptoms are so similar, I would bet you are dealing with the same vacuum leak scenario.

michaelmystic1 (community.author)

Since this happened right after my regular service at 155629 KM, I feel like the timing might be relevant. I will definitely follow your advice about getting both the vacuum hoses and throttle body checked. The whistling noise during acceleration and how the problems get worse with heat match exactly what you described. Going to get the codes read tomorrow and will ask them to inspect all the air supply components, especially around the fuel pump and air valve area where your leak was found. Your repair cost of 175 Euro seems fair, and I am hopeful it will be something similarly straightforward. Really appreciate the detailed response. It helps to hear from someone who experienced the same symptoms and got them resolved. Will update once I have the diagnostic results and know more about the vacuum leaks or other potential issues with the air intake system.

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Q5