Audi Q5 Fuel Sensor Issues Causing Random Stalling

I experienced something very similar with my 2011 Audi Q7. Initially thought it was a serious fuel system problem, but it turned out to be much simpler. The symptoms matched yours exactly, erratic fuel gauge readings and stalling. After checking the fuel level sensor and getting several fault codes, my mechanic discovered it was actually just a blown fuse causing the sensor fault. Total repair was 52 Euro, mostly labor costs for diagnostic time. The fix was straightforward, replacing the faulty fuse resolved both the gauge issue and the stalling. The car electronics were getting incorrect readings from the fuel system, which caused the engine management to act up. Before you head to a workshop, could you share: What error code is showing? Does the stalling happen only when the tank is at a certain level? Have you noticed any other electrical issues? This could help determine if youre dealing with the same simple fuse issue or something more complex in the fuel system. For an accurate diagnosis, having the specific error code would really help narrow down whether your problem matches what I experienced with my Q7.

Thanks for the input about the fuse. The error code Im getting is P0461. The fuel gauge issue and stalling happen regardless of fuel level. Last service done at 105000 KM, and currently at 106231 KM. The car electronics seem otherwise normal, no other warning lights or electrical problems. The stalling mostly occurs after the engine warms up. I checked the fuse panel but all fuses appear intact. Starting to think this might be a more complex fuel system problem, possibly the entire fuel sensor assembly needs replacement. Interesting that your fix was so straightforward. Maybe I should still have a professional check the electrical connections before assuming the worst about the faulty sensor.

Thanks for those additional details. The P0461 code on your Q5 points pretty clearly to a fuel level sensor fault, which differs from my simpler fuse issue. After seeing your mileage and symptoms, it reminds me even more of what I ultimately faced with my Q7. Initially I also checked fuses and connections, but my mechanic found the fuel level sensor itself had failed within the fuel tank assembly. The consistent stalling after warm-up, combined with the fuel gauge issues, are classic signs of a deteriorating sensor in these models. In my case, replacing the entire fuel level sensor assembly fixed both problems permanently. The repair ran about 450 Euro including parts and labor. While costlier than my initial fuse theory, it was worth fixing properly since a faulty sensor can cause serious fuel system management issues over time. Given your error code and symptoms match my later experience so closely, I would recommend having the sensor assembly checked. The fact that the stalling occurs regardless of fuel level strongly suggests the sensor itself is the culprit rather than just a connection issue.

The P0461 code and stalling symptoms definitely point toward the fuel level sensor. My gut was telling me it had to be more than just loose connections, and your detailed explanation matches what I suspected about the fuel tank assembly needing replacement. Since the stalling happens consistently after warm-up and the car dashboard shows erratic fuel readings regardless of the actual fuel level, I agree this is likely the entire sensor unit failing. The fact that all fuses are intact and no other car electronics are acting up further supports this diagnosis. Good to know about the 450 Euro repair cost, that helps set realistic expectations. While more expensive than I hoped, its worth fixing properly to avoid potential long-term fuel system damage. I will schedule an appointment to have the fuel level sensor assembly checked and likely replaced. Really appreciate the thorough comparison with your similar experience. It gives me confidence about the diagnosis and helps justify the repair investment. Will update once I get it fixed in case anyone else runs into similar car sensor issues.