2012 Audi A5 cabriolet problems
The Audi A5 is a series of compact executive coupé cars produced by the German automobile manufacturer Audi since June 2007. The A5 range additionally comprises the coupe, cabriolet, and "Sportback" (a five-door liftback with a fastback roofline) version of the Audi A4 saloon and estate models.
Under Audi's internal platform numbering convention, the A5 is a member of the B-platform series of vehicles, sharing its platform designation with the A4 saloon and Avant. The first generation A5 (Type 8T) is therefore a member of the B8 family, whilst the second generation model (Type 8W6) is based on the B9. Both are derived from the Volkswagen MLB (Modular Longitudinal Matrix) architecture.
First generation (2007)
Initial release
When presented at the March 2007 Geneva Motor Show, the A5 marked Audi's return to the compact executive coupé market since the (B3/B4) Audi 80 based coupé model ended production in 1996. On May 10, 2006, Audi confirmed that the A5 would go into production. The B6/B7 A4 spawned a convertible variant but not a coupé. For the fourth-generation A4 (B8), Audi decided to spin off the cabriolet, along with a new coupé and 4-door fastback sedan, into a nameplate of its own as the A5.
The A5 was the first of the B8 family of vehicles to be released (the others being the A4 and the Q5 crossover SUV), all based on the Audi MLP platform (Modular Longitudinal Platform) which underpin the next generation A6 and A8.
The A5 is the third coupé in Audi's line up, following the second generation TT and the R8. The A5 adopted design elements of the Nuvolari quattro concept car. The A5 debuted with the 3.2 litre FSI V6 engine delivering 195 kW (265 PS; 261 hp).
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Common 2012 Audi A5 cabriolet problems
The Audi A5 Cabriolet, introduced in 2009, is a stylish and refined convertible that offers a smooth ride and decent boot space. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Infotainment system issues: One of the most commonly reported problems with the Audi A5 Cabriolet is related to its electrical system, specifically the infotainment system. The MMI (Multi-Media Interface) system, in particular, has several issues, including the MMI screen going blank or freezing, the system failing to power on or off, and difficulties recognizing CDs or DVDs. The 2010 A5 has the highest reported problems among the different model years.
- Multitronic gearbox problems: The earliest Audi A5 models, particularly those produced between 2007 and 2016, have had more reported instances of Multitronic gearbox problems. These include transmission failure, power loss or immobility, shuddering, jerking, and unusual noises during acceleration or cruising. Overheating is another problem, particularly during demanding driving conditions or towing heavy loads.
- Airbag problems: Audi has recalled certain A5 models due to concerns that a seat heater cable problem could disable the front passenger airbag. This issue affected the 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe and A5 Sportback.
- Timing chain problems: All Audi A5 engines, petrol and diesel, have timing chains rather than belts. Timing chains are designed to be more durable than timing belts. However, they are in constant contact with other moving parts and can stretch over time if there is too much tension, resulting in misfires during motion if the pistons and valves are out of place. Replacing timing chains can also be more costly than replacing timing belts because they’re a complex component inside the engine.
- Increased oil consumption: Oil consumption is a common problem for many performance vehicles, including the Audi A5. Turbocharged engines tend to consume oil faster due to their higher operating temperatures. The early versions of the TFSI petrol engines found in the A5, A4, and Q5 have a piston ring design flaw that contributes to excessive oil consumption. The piston rings allow small amounts of oil to leak into the cylinders where it burns, increasing oil consumption. Oil consumption problems can affect both diesel and petrol engines.
- Interior trim noises: Owners of the Audi A5 have reported experiencing a range of interior trim noises, such as rattling or creaking sounds from the dashboard, door panels, or centre console. It’s unclear what makes these noises and it can differ between vehicles. If you’re experiencing interior trim noise problems with your Audi A5, having a qualified mechanic inspect these areas is a good idea.
- Clutch issues: Some Audi A5 owners have reported clutch problems, such as a stiff or difficult-to-press clutch pedal and instances of clutch slippage or complete failure. If you are experiencing clutch-related issues with your Audi A5, have it inspected and repaired by a mechanic.
- Coolant pump failure: There have been reports of coolant pump issues in Audi A5 vehicles. Owners have noted instances where the coolant pump fails prematurely, leading to engine overheating. However, this problem isn’t associated with any specific Audi A5 models.
- Water pump failure: Premature water pump failure has been reported by some Audi A5 owners, leading to engine overheating. This issue can affect any Audi A5 model, not just specific ones.
It is important to note that not all Audi A5 models will experience these issues, and that Audi has attempted to address and rectify many known problems through recalls, technical service bulletins, and updated parts. When considering purchasing an Audi A5 Cabriolet, it is advisable to research the specific model year and any known issues to ensure a more informed decision.
Is the Audi A5 Cabriolet reliable?
The 2023 Audi A5 has a predicted reliability score of 72 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is Audi A5 reliable 2012?
A great car for 8 years and counting
It's a gorgeous car, drives great, comfortable, and reliable. I would have preferred a manual transmission (this is my first ever automatic daily-driver), but a manual was unavailable in the cabriolet (and most cars anymore these days).
What is the recall on the Audi A5 2012?
NHTSA safety recall results (1)
(Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Audi Q5 and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet and S5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
What year Audi A5 is most reliable?
As per CarComplaints, the 2014 A5 has only received 29 complaints, and three recalls – making it the most reliable Audi A5 year. On the other hand, Consumer Reports also scored this luxury compact car with a perfect 5.0 out of 5.0 in reliability and 4.0 out of 5.0 in owner satisfaction.
What is the common problem with Audi A5?
The number of reported faults on the A5 Sportback is relatively low, although problems with the car's infotainment system are a cause for concern, with phones not connecting properly and flickering screens being the main complaints. The latest software from Audi can cure some of these ills.
Is the Audi A5 Cabriolet reliable?
The 2023 Audi A5 has a predicted reliability score of 72 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is Audi A5 reliable 2012?
A great car for 8 years and counting
It's a gorgeous car, drives great, comfortable, and reliable. I would have preferred a manual transmission (this is my first ever automatic daily-driver), but a manual was unavailable in the cabriolet (and most cars anymore these days).
Is an Audi A5 expensive to maintain?
An Audi A5 will cost about $8,687 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury hatchback models by $2,668. There is also a 25.29% chance that an A5 will require a major repair during that time.
2012 Audi A5 cabriolet car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A5 cabriolet problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Audi A5 cabriolet vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Audi A5 cabriolet complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Audi A5 cabriolet.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-08
- VIN: WAULFAFH4CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL MY AUDI DEALER [AUDI OF HUNTINGTON NY] HAS BEEN TELLING ME FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE THE REPLACEMENT AIRBAG. I HAVE SPOKEN TO THEM AND IT IS ALWAYS "ON ORDER, WE WILL CALL YOU". THEN I RECEIVE A POST CARD FROM AUDI OF HUNTINGTON TO CALL FOR THE RECALL SERVICE....AND SAME STORY. AS I SAID, THIS IS THE PAST FEW YEARS. I CAN'T BELIEVE THERE IS NO REPLACEMENT PART. COULD YOU INQUIRE SO THAT I DO NOT WIND UP SERIOUSLY INJURED BECAUSE OF MY DEALER'S FAILURE AND NEGLECT. *JS
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-03
- VIN: WAULFAFH6CN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR HAS HAD THE ADD OIL LIGHT ON MANY TIMES TO WHICH I HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER. FIRST TIME THEY TOLD ME IT WAS A WATER PUMP FAILURE. I REPLACED AND PAID FOR THE WATER PUMP. SECOND TIME A YEAR LATER I RETURNED TO HEAR THAT THE WATER PUMP FAILED AGAIN ONLY THIS TIME IT WAS THE CAM BEARING LADDER THAT FAILED WHICH IN TURN CAUSED THE WATER PUMP TO FAIL. BOTH TIMES I ASKED IF THE WATER PUMP IS REPLACED SHOULD I REPLACE THE TIMING BELT, I AM TOLD IT IS A TIMING CHAIN AND DOES NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED. THEN THE LIGHT COMES ON AGAIN I TAKE IT BACK TO THE DEALER TO BE CHECKED THEY SAY IT IS FINE. TWO MONTHS LATER THE LIGHT COMES BACK ON, WHILE DRIVING TO THE GAS STATION TO GET OIL I TURN ENGINE OFF ONLY TO HAVE IT TURN BACK ON RUNNING SUPER ROUGH. CAR THEN WILL NOT START. I AM NOW TOLD THAT IT WAS THE TIMING BELT FAILURE AND THAT THE TENSIONER ROD BROKE. I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THIS ISSUE. HTTPS://WWW.AUDIFORUMS.COM/FORUM/GENERAL-TECH-50/A5-2-0T-TIMING-CHAIN-FAILURE-215409/
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-09
- VIN: WAULFAFH3CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY VEHICLE IS IMPACTED BY THE TAKATA AIRBAG SAFETY ISSUE. I RECENTLY RECEIVED A FOLLOW UP LETTER FROM AUDI INDICATING THAT I SHOULD "SCHEDULE THIS RECALL REPAIR IMMEDIATELY, EVEN IF AN INTERIM REPAIR WAS RECENTLY DONE." UPON CALLING THE LOCAL AUDI DEALERS THEY ALL INDICATE THAT THE MANUFACTURER (AUDI) HAS NOT YET SHIPPED THE NECESSARY PARTS TO EFFECT THE REPAIR, AND THEY HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THE PARTS SINCE EARLY TO MID MARCH 2018. IF AUDI IS NOT READY TO REPAIR THE VEHICLES THEN THE COMMUNICATION TO THE VEHICLE OWNERS SHOULD INDICATE THIS CLEARLY. IT NOW FEELS LIKE AUDI IS COVERING THEMSELVES BY STATING THEY ARE READY TO MAKE A REPAIR WHICH THEY ARE CLEARLY NOT YET READY FOR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- VIN: WAULFAFH8CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABROLET. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V082000 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE DEALER (AUDI ALBUQUERUE, 8900 PAN AMERICAN FWY NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87113) STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-15
- VIN: WAULFAFHXCN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT SPOKE TO MOHEGAN LAKE AUDI (1791 E MAIN ST, MOHEGAN LAKE, NY 10547) WHO STATED THAT THEY WOULD RECEIVE THE PARTS IN SEPTEMBER AND PLACE THE CONTACT ON A WAITING LIST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-16
- VIN: WAUAFAFH3CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-10
- VIN: WAULFAFH3CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE AIR BAGS AND WANTED TO KNOW THE DEALER'S LOCATION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-06
- VIN: WAULFAFHXCN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. AFTER MORE THAN 1 YEAR, AUDI HAS FAILED TO REPLACE THIS DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG, EITHER WITH NEW TAKATA , OR BY SOURCING THROUGH ONE OF ITS OTHER SUPPLIERS. THEY HAVE ALSO FAILED TO VOLUNTARILY TAKE THE CAR OUT OF SERVICE. WHAT IS THE STATUS OF REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-27
- VIN: WAULFAFH4CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: :TAKATA RECALL" MY COMPLAINT IS THAT IT WILL BE ONE YEAR SINCE I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE TO HAVE MY AIRBAG DEFLATOR REPLACED,AND IT IS STILL NOT COMPLETED. I HAVE CALLED MY DEALER, EMAILED AUDI DIRECT AND ALL THEY SAY THEY ARE WAITING ON THE PARTS. MY VEHICLE IS IN FLORIDA NOW (PURCHASED IN MI) BEING A SMALLER VEHICLE AND IN THE HOT CLIMATE I FEEL THIS NEEDS TO BE REPLACED QUICKLY. I WAS TOLD THAT IF I TRADED THE CAR IN FOR A NEW ONE, THAT BEFORE THE DEALER COULD SELL THE AUDI Q5 THEY HAD TO HAVE THE AIRBAG REPLACED, AND THEY COULD GET IT DONE THEN. SO SOMEONE THAT HAS NOT HAD THE VEHICLE FOR YEARS GET THE BENEFIT, THAT IS NOT RIGHT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-01
- VIN: WAUVFAFH7CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. THE CAR IS NOW 5 YEARS OLD, YET THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THE PARTS STILL ARE NOT AVAILABLE. THIS IS A PRETTY MUCH RIDICULOUS SITUATION, CONSIDERING WE ARE TALKING ABOUT A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-12
- VIN: WAULFAFH2CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-09
- VIN: WAUVFAFH0CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - I FIRST RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN FEB. 2016 BUT TO DATE MY AUDI SERVICE DEALER (CLASSIC AUDI - MT. VERNON, NY) CONTINUES TO TELL ME THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PART(S) AVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE REQUIRED REPAIR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-02
- VIN: WAULFAFH0CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - IT'S BEEN ALMOST A YEAR AND THERE'S NO SOLUTION?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-14
- VIN: WAULFAFH8CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
2012 Audi A5 cabriolet recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Audi A5 cabriolet.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2006-2013 Audi A3, 2007-2009 A4 Cabriolet and S4 Cabriolet, 2008 RS4 Cabriolet, 2009-2012 Q5, and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet and S5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 23, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69R6. Note: This recall partially supersedes recall 16V-078.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat sedans and wagon, 2012-2014 Passat sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflators, free of charge. Volkswagen issued an interim notification to owners on April 12, 2016, and will send a second notification when parts are available. Volkswagen will notify owners again once parts are available. Volkswagen owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Audi A5 cabriolet problems:
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Other years of Audi A5 cabriolet
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