What are the most common Audi A5 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,400+ owner reports, the 2008-2023 Audi A5 has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure, S-Tronic/DSG Mechatronic Unit Failure, Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Audi A5 reliable?
The 2008-2023 Audi A5 has 8 known issues documented across 3,400+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and S-Tronic/DSG Mechatronic Unit Failure and Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Audi A5 problems?
Repair costs for known Audi A5 issues range from $0 to $10,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure, typically costs $1,500-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Audi A5 is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Audi A5. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2008-2023 Audi A5 with 8 documented issues documented across 3,400+ owner reports.
What is the 2008-2017 Audi A5 EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure?
The A5 shares the B8/B8.5 platform with the A4 and inherits the same EA888 2.0T timing chain tensioner weakness. The original tensioner design allows the chain to slacken on cold starts, eventually jumping teeth and causing catastrophic valve-to-piston contact. Pre-2013 engines a… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2017 Audi A5 S-Tronic/DSG Mechatronic Unit Failure?
The 7-speed S-Tronic (DL501) dual-clutch transmission in the A5 suffers from mechatronic unit failures. The mechatronic unit is the electro-hydraulic control module that manages gear selection and clutch engagement. Internal solenoid and valve body wear causes erratic shifting, s… Repairs typically run $1,500-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2016 Audi A5 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine)?
The B8/B8.5 A5 with the 2.0 TFSI engine (2008-2016) suffers from premature timing chain tensioner failure, identical to the A4 and A6. The tensioners wear out between 60,000-120,000 miles, causing the timing chain to stretch and rattle. A loud rattling noise on cold start from th… Repairs typically run $2,000-$10,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2018-2020 Audi A5 Front Passenger Airbag Deactivation (ODS Recall)?
The B9 A5 (2018-2020 Coupe, Sportback, and Cabriolet) has a design flaw where the electrical connection for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) in the front passenger seat can loosen over time. This causes the ODS control module to malfunction and incorrectly deactivate the front… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2023 Audi A5 Water Pump and Thermostat Failure?
Water pump failures are common across all A5 and S5 generations due to plastic impeller degradation and seal leaks. Audi uses plastic impellers that crack or disintegrate over time (typically 80,000-120,000 miles), causing coolant leaks and overheating. The water pump is timing b… Repairs typically run $800-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2023 Audi A5 Severe Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (Direct Injection)?
All direct-injection engines in the A5 and S5 (2.0 TFSI, 3.0T, and 3.2L V6) suffer from severe carbon buildup on intake valves. In direct-injection engines, fuel sprays directly into the cylinder, bypassing the intake valves. This means intake valves are only exposed to oil vapor… Repairs typically run $700-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2015 Audi A5 Excessive Oil Consumption (2.0 TFSI Engine)?
The 2.0 TFSI engine in early B8 A5 models (2008-2015) suffers from excessive oil consumption due to defective piston ring design. Owners report burning 1 quart of oil every 500-1,200 miles, requiring constant top-ups. The issue is worst in 2010-2012 models with EA888 Gen 2 engine… Repairs typically run $150-$7,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2017-2023 Audi A5 Electrical and Infotainment System Issues (B9)?
The B9 A5 (2017-2023) experiences various electrical gremlins, most commonly with the MMI infotainment system. The touchscreen freezes, reboots randomly, displays black screen, or becomes unresponsive. Owners also report interior trim rattles and squeaks from the dashboard, door… Repairs typically run $0-$2,500. Severity: low.
