Parts for your 2015 Audi Q5-Temperature sensors

2015 Audi Q5 temperature-sensors: what they do and how to look after them

Based on Audi factory repair information (ElsaPro/Erwin for Q5 Type 8R, MY2015), Audi Self‑Study Programmes for the EA888 petrol and 3.0 TDI engines, and ZF 8HP automatic transmission documentation, temperature sensors are absolutely fitted and relevant on the 2015 Audi Q5. These sources detail multiple sensors across the vehicle, including the engine coolant temperature sensor (often referred to as G62), intake air temperature (IAT, typically integrated with the MAF), ambient air temperature (G17), HVAC evaporator temperature (G263), exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensors on many engines, and transmission fluid temperature sensing within the mechatronics. They’re core to engine management, emissions, cooling, climate control and gearbox operation.

On a 2015 Audi Q5, temperature sensors let the car make smart, split‑second decisions. The engine coolant temperature sensor helps with cold starts, fan control and fuelling, the intake air temperature trims spark and boost, EGT sensors protect the turbo and catalyst/DPF, the ambient and evaporator sensors keep the cabin comfy without icing the evaporator, and the transmission’s fluid temperature shapes shift quality and longevity. If one goes rogue, expect things like high radiator fan speeds, poor fuel economy, limp behaviour, hard starts, flat A/C performance or warning lights.

They’re not a regular “replace by kilometres” service item, but they do benefit from periodic checks during scheduled servicing. Under the bonnet, a quick look for brittle wiring, oil‑soaked connectors and corroded plugs goes a long way. Faults commonly surface as stored OBD codes (e.g., P0117/P0118 for coolant temp, P0113 for IAT, P0070–P0073 for ambient). If a sensor is confirmed faulty, replacement is usually straightforward with the right tools and care.

• Engine coolant temp sensor: Typically clipped into a housing with an O‑ring. Replace the O‑ring, use the correct G12/G13‑spec coolant, and bleed the cooling system per the factory procedure.
• Ambient and IAT sensors: Ensure the front bumper/grille area is free of debris, avoid aftermarket sensors that read “hot” or “cold” and upset A/C logic.
• EGT sensors: Often threaded into the exhaust, heat cycles can seize them, so use penetrating oil and the proper socket. Tighten to the spec in the factory manual.
• HVAC evaporator sensor: Sits in the HVAC case, handle gently to avoid damaging fins or the housing.

Best practice is to fit genuine or high‑quality OEM‑equivalent parts, clear adaptations where applicable, and verify readings live with a scan tool. That way, the Q5 keeps its cool under Aussie and Kiwi conditions alike.

Popular questions

Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor on a 2015 Audi Q5?
On most 2.0 TFSI EA888 engines it’s mounted in or near the thermostat housing on the side/rear of the cylinder head, retained by a clip with an O‑ring. On the 3.0 TDI, it’s positioned at a coolant pipe/housing on the engine. Exact placement varies by engine code, so checking the factory repair manual or a parts diagram is the safest bet.

Will a faulty ambient temperature sensor affect A/C and radiator fans?
Yes. The Q5’s climate control and cooling strategies use the ambient sensor. A bad reading can cause weak A/C performance, erratic compressor engagement and unusual fan operation. Restoring a correct ambient signal often brings cabin temps and fan behaviour back to normal.

Is it safe to drive a Q5 with a bad temperature sensor?
It might run, but it’s not ideal. The ECU may default to rich fuelling, lock the fans on high, or limit power to protect the engine and aftertreatment. There’s also a risk of masking genuine overheating. It’s wiser to scan, diagnose and fix the faulty sensor promptly.