Audi Glow Plugs Issue
The Audi SQ5, a pinnacle of performance in the SUV category, was first unveiled in 2013. Its robust V6 diesel engine and over 300 horsepower made many Audi enthusiasts salivate.
Maintaining such a sophisticated vehicle, however, can be challenging.
The SQ5 is built with precision-engineered components designed to deliver peak performance consistently. Regular checks and maintenance ensures the vehicle lives up to expectations and prevents unnecessary breakdowns and costly repair bills.
A recent client brought their Audi SQ5 to our experts after noticing the dreaded check engine light, a common issue among VW-Audi Group vehicles.
Our client also mentioned having difficulties starting the engine on colder days.
Thankfully, they’d chosen to bring their vehicle to our Audi experts at P. Breading Motor Services. As your local independent Audi specialist, we were confident we could solve the issue during the first visit.

The Audi SQ5 Inspection
Given the issues our client’s Audi was experiencing, our experts were confident they could find the root cause. However, this would require a deeper inspection.
Thankfully, we use a 15-step diagnostic process to resolve any problem your vehicle may have. We leave no stone unturned, allowing us to accurately diagnose your vehicle’s issues during the first visit.
As the Audi SQ5 had a warning light and starting issues, it’s not something that should be ignored. Ignoring the engine management light in this rare SQ5 Diesel V6 could end in a rather expensive engine replacement… Which is something we all wanted to avoid.
Fortunately, our client brought their vehicle to us just in time.
From our extensive experience, a few key components, such as filters, glow plugs, turbochargers, and NOx sensors, could be causing the client’s vehicle issues.
Identifying the Engine Fault
Our technicians leveraged their extensive knowledge of Audi vehicles and diesel engines to efficiently diagnose the cause of the engine management light.
As your local independent Audi specialist, we have access to the same level of technical information as the main Audi dealerships. This allows us to provide dealership-level solutions at better value.
Using our technicians’ experience and Audi technical information, we ran a diagnostic test to pinpoint the issues accurately.
During the initial code reading, multiple intermittent fault codes were identified on the SQ5, presenting a complex challenge.
The codes included:
- P226E00 – indicating a deteriorated or missing substrate in the particulate filter (bank 2)
- P067600 – related to a malfunction in Cylinder 6’s Glow Plug Circuit
- P103200 – showing a too-high signal from the Nox Sensor
- P157000 – suggesting the Engine Control Unit was disabled
- P200600 – involving the Intake Manifold Runner Control in Bank 1 being stuck closed
As there were so many issues flagging, our experts decided to perform a live data check during a test drive to hone in on the root cause of these issues.
Although the diagnosis revealed multiple concerns, the primary issue was identified with the Audi’s glow plugs.
Glow plugs are essential for diesel engines. They help heat the air-fuel mixture for combustion, facilitating easier starts on cold days.
Unlike petrol engines that use a spark, diesel engines use compression to ignite the fuel. If glow plugs fail, starting the engine becomes more challenging and less efficient due to poor cylinder firing.
The fault analysis showed high resistance and malfunction in the glow plug of Cylinder 6.
How We Fixed the Audi Glow Plugs Issue

Replacing the vehicle’s faulty glow plug was crucial if we wanted to restore the SQ5’s optimal performance.
Before we began any work, we called the client to discuss our findings and to recommend a solution to fix their Audi warning light and start-up problems.
At P. Breading Motor Services, we always keep you in the loop throughout the entire process. We only begin working on your vehicle when you say so. You remain in complete control.
The client was pleased we’d resolved the issue quickly and agreed to have the necessary work performed.
Our experts promptly ordered the necessary parts from our trusted Audi specialist supplier, and they arrived the same day, allowing for an immediate replacement.
As your local independent Audi specialist, we only use genuine Audi or high-grade aftermarket parts on your vehicle. This allows us to provide your vehicle with the quality it needs to run optimally, resulting in greater performance, longevity, safety, and value.
Once the new glow plug was installed, our technicians cleared all fault codes using the ODIS tool and conducted a thorough test drive.
Thankfully, all of the vehicle’s warning messages had disappeared, and the client was able to drive off the same day.
Talk about a fast turnaround. At P. Breading Motor Services, we don’t have wait times of weeks (and sometimes months) like the main Audi dealerships. This allows us to get your vehicle in our garage and taken care of far quicker without sacrificing quality.
Plus, you get better value; what more could you ask for?
Another Happy Audi Client With a Same-Day Fix
At P. Breading Motor Services, our Audi specialists have the experience, skills and knowledge to handle any issue with precision and speed. You always save time, money and stress with us.
For our client’s Audi SQ5, our technicians quickly identified and rectified the problem using high-quality, original Audi replacement parts. This not only solved the immediate issue but also ensured that the new glow plugs would last significantly longer, maintaining the vehicle as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
The client was extremely pleased with the level of service they’d received and were even happier to have their vehicle back on the same day. Not only that, but they got better than dealership value for money.
If you’re experiencing issues with an Audi, whether it’s an engine management light, a scheduled service, or any other problem, contact us at P. Breading Motor Services.
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