PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated July 2026
2005–2011
Model years affected
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
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Start my diagnosis →Extended delays, and an unusual out-of-pocket shipping charge
Check engine light: On
Parts unavailable for recall repairs with extended delays, many reported at 1-2+ years without remedy; one customer reported being charged $1,640 in shipping fees to complete the Takata recall repair.
The recall exists, but replacement parts have been unavailable, and owners report unusual shipping fees.
Steering can lock unexpectedly
Check engine light: On
Steering column locking while driving creates what the owner described as a "severe accident" risk.
Engine timing-system durability concern
Check engine light: Off
Camshaft chain tensioner failures reported, consistent with timing chain tensioner reports on the Audi A4 — likely the same underlying VW Group engine-family issue.
Near-collision risk when stalling occurs unexpectedly
Check engine light: On
Engine stalling at freeway speed nearly caused the vehicle to be "sandwiched between a semi-truck" in one documented case; sticky accelerator pedals also cited.
Digital display on the instrument cluster fails
Check engine light: Off
Digital display on the instrument cluster fails. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 56 owner reports on file.
FSI and TFSI engines accumulate carbon buildup on the intake valves, intake, and runner flaps (P0300 series)
Check engine light: On
FSI and TFSI engines accumulate carbon buildup on the intake valves, intake, and runner flaps (P0300 series). This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 35 owner reports on file.
Check engine light due to a faulty torque converter
Check engine light: On
Check engine light due to a faulty torque converter. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 34 owner reports on file.
Premature wear in multi-link suspension components causes noise
Check engine light: Off
Premature wear in multi-link suspension components causes noise. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 25 owner reports on file.
Rainwater accumulates in the plenum tray due to clogged drains
Check engine light: Off
Rainwater accumulates in the plenum tray due to clogged drains. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 17 owner reports on file.
ABS light due to ABS control module failure
Check engine light: Off
ABS light due to ABS control module failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 17 owner reports on file.
No-start condition after refueling, with a popping noise from the trunk
Check engine light: Off
No-start condition after refueling, with a popping noise from the trunk. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 13 owner reports on file.
Flasher relay failure causes erratic turn signal operation
Check engine light: Off
Flasher relay failure causes erratic turn signal operation. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 12 owner reports on file.
Water from clogged sunroof drains damages control modules
Check engine light: Off
Water from clogged sunroof drains damages control modules. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 11 owner reports on file.
This generation has a confirmed, high-volume Takata airbag recall. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
This generation's Takata airbag recall shows both extended parts-unavailability delays (many owners reporting 1-2+ years without remedy) and an unusual added cost: one owner reported being charged $1,640 in shipping fees just to complete the supposedly free recall repair. Separately, steering column lock failures while driving are also reported on the Infiniti M35/M37, and camshaft chain tensioner failures are also reported on the Audi A4.