2016 Audi A5 problems

General information about Audi-A5
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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 2016 Audi A5 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2016 Audi A5, several common problems have been reported:

Interior Trim Problems: Complaints have been raised about buzzing from interior trims and rattling parcel shelves within the Audi A5. While the car is known for its great interior quality, these issues have been reported by some owners.

Electronic Malfunctions: Minor electronic issues, particularly related to the infotainment system and other dashboard electronics, have been reported by some Audi A5 owners. These issues can impact the overall user experience of the vehicle.

Water Damage: Some owners have faced water damage issues in the 2016 Audi A5, leading to problems with the car starting. Water damage to the ECM and fuses under the dash has been reported, causing issues like a "Parking Brake Malfunction" warning and difficulties starting the car .
Airbag and Seatbelt Recalls: Two recalls have been issued related to airbags in the Audi A5. One recall addresses a manufacturing error that could affect the functionality of airbags and seatbelt tensioners, while the other involves a loose passenger airbag in specific vehicles.

Shock Absorber Fork Problems: Certain Audi A5 models manufactured within a specific timeframe have experienced issues with the shock absorber forks, which could lead to potential failures. Owners are advised to check with an Audi dealer to determine if their vehicle is affected and to have replacement forks fitted if necessary.

These reported problems highlight some of the key issues that owners of the 2016 Audi A5 have faced. It's essential for potential buyers to be aware of these common issues to make informed decisions when considering purchasing a used Audi A5 from this model year.

Is the 2016 Audi A5 reliable?

How Reliable Is the 2016 Audi A5? The 2016 Audi A5 has a reliability score of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power, which is slightly above average for a used car.

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 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.

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.

Is the 2016 Audi A5 reliable?

How Reliable Is the 2016 Audi A5? The 2016 Audi A5 has a reliability score of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power, which is slightly above average for a used car.

What is the common problem with Audi A5?

Carbon build-up issues have been reported in Audi A5 vehicles. Excessive carbon build-up can result in engine misfires, leading to poor performance and decreased fuel efficiency. It's worth noting that this problem can impact all Audi A5 models.

Is an Audi A5 expensive to maintain?

Is an Audi A5 expensive to run?

That means despite relatively high sticker prices the A5 should be a relatively inexpensive car to run. That's driven by not just assured high residual values when you've finished with it and tax reduction chasing emissions and economy, but also the option of fixed price servicing packages.

2016 Audi A5 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A5 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Engine problems
Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Audi A5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2016 Audi A5 complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Audi A5.

2024-09-05

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
VIN: WAUD2AFR9GA
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: Car went into limp mode and check engine light came on.

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2024-03-19

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-03-13
VIN: WAUM2AFR9GA
Components: STEERING
Summary: Electromechanical steering rack has gone out. Had this completely failed while driving myself and others could be put in serious harm of a collision or crash. There are many online complaints and issues with the audi steering racks. No other warnings then it just went out at the same time it tells you stop driving.

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2021-08-31

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-07-09
VIN: WAUM2AFH5GN
Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
Summary: The drive chain broke, causing permanent damage to the engine which requires a complete engine replacement. The car was 5 + years old with 38,000 miles on it and well maintained.

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2019-07-02

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2019-05-29
VIN: WAUM2AFR4GA
Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 AUDI A5. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS MAKING A THREE POINT TURN WITH THE SHIFTER IN THE REVERSE POSITION, THE VEHICLE ABRUPTLY ACCELERATED FORWARD AND MOVED APPROXIMATELY 3 TO 5 FEET WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT ALSO INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND WOULD NOT PROPERLY ACCELERATE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DETERMINED. AUDI OF EATONTOWN (95 NJ-36, EATONTOWN, NJ) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.

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2018-09-18

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
Components: ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V229000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT DID NOT CONTACT A LOCAL DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

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2016 Audi A5 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2016 Audi A5.

2018-04-11

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sedan and Audi Q5 vehicles, 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles and 2013-2016 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can either become blocked with debris from the cooling system causing it to overheat or can short-circuit from moisture within the pump.
Consequence: A blocked pump or a short-circuited pump can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the pumps, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number's for this recall is 19N3/19N4. Note: This recall is in additional to the coolant pump software update applied as a remedy under recall 17V002.

2017-10-05

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Cabriolet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad and Q5 vehicles. Contact corrosion within the electrical connector for the auxiliary heater may cause the heater wires to overheat or melt.
Consequence: The melted wires can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the auxiliary heater and, as necessary, update the software, free of charge. The Recall began November 27, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 80C5 and 80C6.

2017-01-03

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 vehicles, 2013-2016 Audi Allroad and Audi A4 vehicles and 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can be blocked with debris from the cooling system, resulting in the pump overheating.
Consequence: If the coolant pump overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will update the software so that the power supply to the coolant pump is deactivated if the pump becomes blocked with debris, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 19M1.

Positive 2016 Audi A5 car reviews

Haskell Ferry 2024-11-27

Great news! You haven't had any problems in five years!
Ray Nitzsche 2024-09-24

The 2015 model may experience some turbo lag, which can be frustrating at times. However, if you are experiencing excessive lag, it may be worth discussing with your dealer to see if there is a solution.
Raleigh Goodwin 2024-07-27

Hi there! It's great to hear that you're enjoying your car in different weather conditions. It sounds like you've had a good experience with this model since it's your second one. Thanks for sharing!
Tyreek Legros 2024-07-26

This car handles great and has decent fuel mileage. While the interior technology is not outdated, it could use some refreshing. Unfortunately, there are no USB ports in the vehicle.
Cooper Crooks 2024-07-24

The perfect combination of safety and style. Everything you could want in a car (minus backup camera). The A5 has been my trusty companion for 3.5 years and - other than new tires after 40k miles - has required no work. When I was t-boned on the passenger side, I walked away completely unscathed, a testament to the quality of this car. I would buy it again in a heartbeat.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Audi A5 problems:

2016 A5 Review, Common Issues, Buying Guide - AudiWorld Forums

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/audi-a5-s5-rs5-coupe-cabrio-b8-125/2016-a5-review-common-issues-buying-guide-3001689/

Jul 25, 2020 ... Audi A5 / S5 / RS5 Coupe & Cabrio (B8) - 2016 A5 Review, Common Issues, Buying Guide - Recently had my hands on 2016 Audi A5.

10 of the most common problems with the Audi A5 - BreakerLink Blog

https://www.breakerlink.com/blog/buying-selling/10-of-the-most-common-problems-with-the-audi-a5/

Jul 13, 2023 ... So what are the most common faults with the A5? · 1. Infotainment system issues · 2. Multitronic gearbox problems · 3. Airbags · 4. Timing chain ...