Glass condition: chips or cracks in windshield or windows
Doors, hood and tailgate open/close smoothly
Sunroof/panoramic roof operation and seals (if equipped)
Tires, wheels & brakes
Tire brand, size and date codes (matching set and even wear)
Tread depth acceptable and no unusual wear patterns
Wheels: curb rash, bends, cracks
Brake pads and rotors: thickness and surface condition
Brake feel during test drive: no pulsation, pull or spongy pedal
Under the hood — engine bay
Engine type confirmed (3.0L supercharged V6 in many 2014 SQ5s)
Oil level & condition — no milky appearance (sign of coolant mixing)
Coolant level and condition — no rust or oil contamination
Leaks: oil, coolant, power steering, transmission fluid
Hoses and belts: cracks, wear, tightness (supercharger drive belt)
Unusual smells (burning, coolant, fuel)
Battery terminals clean; no corrosion
Note: The SQ5’s 3.0 supercharged motor performs strongly but inspect for oil leaks, worn belts and any evidence of poor maintenance (irregular oil changes, aftermarket parts).
Fluids & filters
Oil service date and type (synthetic recommended)
Transmission fluid level and smell (burnt smell = problem)
Brake fluid condition and date
Air filter and cabin filter condition
Interior & electronics
Seats: wear, tears, power seat operation and memory
Steering wheel, stalks and paddle shifters (if equipped)
HVAC: heats and cools correctly, A/C cold
Infotainment (MMI): screen, controls, navigation, Bluetooth
All lights, gauges and warning lamps function normally
Key fob buttons, remote start/lock and trunk release
Undercarriage & drivetrain
Check undercarriage for dents, bends, repairs or welds
AWD/quattro system: noises, clunks, vibration on acceleration
CV joints/boots: no tears or grease leakage
Suspension: shocks/struts and bushings (bounce test)
Test drive checklist
Cold start: smooth start, no excessive smoke or noise
Idling: stable, no rattles or misfires
Acceleration: no hesitation, lag or odd noises from supercharger
Gear shifts: smooth, no harsh engagement (automatic transmission)
Steering: responsive, no pull to one side
Cruise control and adaptive systems (if present) function properly
Listen for unusual noises at various speeds and road surfaces
Paperwork, recalls & red flags
Service records match mileage and show regular maintenance
Warranty/extended coverage details (if any)
Recalls checked with NHTSA and resolved by dealer
Pre-purchase inspection (PPI) scheduled with AUDI specialist
Seller answers questions about repairs, modifications and accidents
Red flags: hidden salvage, mismatched paint, inconsistent service history, strong odors (cigarette, mold), heavy oil consumption, slipping transmission, or significant suspension/brake issues.
Price negotiation tips
Use service history and any defects to negotiate price
Factor in timing belt/chain, major service intervals, and tires
Get estimates for repairs found during inspection to support offers
Final thoughts
The 2014 AUDI SQ5 offers strong performance, refined interior quality and the traction advantages of quattro AWD. That said, it’s a premium vehicle with potentially expensive maintenance if not properly cared for. Use this checklist to methodically evaluate cosmetically visible items, mechanical condition, electronics and service history. Always corroborate seller claims with a vehicle history report and a professional pre-purchase inspection—especially for timing of major services, signs of oil or coolant leaks, transmission behavior and the condition of the supercharger drive components. Walk away or negotiate accordingly if you find evidence of poor maintenance, unresolved recalls, or costly pending repairs.
FAQs
Q: Should I get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI)?
A: Yes. A PPI by an Audi specialist or trustworthy independent shop can uncover issues not obvious on a test drive or visual check. It’s worth the fee compared to unexpected major repairs later.
Q: Are there common problems with the 2014 SQ5 I should watch for?
A: Common concerns for performance Audis of this era include oil leaks, worn belts/hoses, carbon buildup associated with direct injection engines, and transmission or drivetrain wear if maintenance was neglected. Check service records and PTO to reduce risk.
Q: How important is the vehicle history report?
A: Very important. It reveals title problems, reported accidents, odometer discrepancies and sometimes service history. Use it alongside a physical inspection and the VIN to confirm the vehicle’s story.
Q: Can I do any of these checks myself?
A: Many visual and basic functional checks can be done yourself (fluids, lights, tires, test drive). However, tasks like diagnostic trouble code reading, detailed suspension checks, and transmission inspections are best left to a mechanic during a PPI.
Use this checklist as your guide, but always pair it with professional inspection and background checks. When in doubt, budget for potential repairs and factor them into your offer.
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