On 12/22/2023, after I drove to a location and parked the car for about 30 minutes, I encountered an issue when starting the engine. With no prior issues with the steering or other parts of the vehicle, an alert suddenly appeared on the console: 'Steering Defective! Do not drive vehicle!' The steering was literally locked. Consequently, I had to tow the vehicle to the local dealership. The service agent called me today to inform me that the entire steering control module assembly needs to be replaced, quoting me over $4,000 for parts and labor. I am now wondering if the whole assembly really needs to be replaced and if this issue is related to any of the prior complaints about steering malfunctions.

I was leaving work, and when I started the vehicle, I got a steering (wheel!) symbol saying 'steering wheel is defective don't drive'. I noticed my steering was stiff with no power steering. I did get it home and had it towed to dealership with Audi Towing. I am waiting word to find out how much this will set me back because warranty ended in Nov. I have been reading horror stories with a price range from $3500-$4500. My Q5 only has 37575 miles on it and it seems Audi knows about the problem but won't do anything about it. Now I am wondering if I pay to get it fixed, how do I know the new one won't go either??