2018 Audi A5 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 2018 Audi A5 problems
The 2018 Audi A5 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. The most significant issues are related to miscellaneous problems, accessories - interior, and engine problems.
- Excessive Oil Consumption and Turbo Failure: One of the most serious problems reported is excessive oil consumption, which can lead to the destruction of the turbocharger. This issue has affected numerous 2018 Audi A5 owners, with an average cost to fix of $20,000 and typically occurring around 24,000 miles.
- Sun Visor Problems: Another common issue with the 2018 Audi A5 is the sun visor. Some owners have reported that the sun visor falls off, while others have experienced broken sun visors. These problems typically occur around 14,000 miles and 13,000 miles, respectively, and there is no reported average cost to fix for these issues.
- Infotainment System Issues: The infotainment system in the 2018 Audi A5 has also been reported to have several problems. These issues include the MMI screen going blank or freezing, the system failing to power on or off, and difficulties recognizing CDs or DVDs. The 2010 A5 model has the highest reported problems in this category, but it's essential to note that these issues can affect all Audi A5 models.
- Multitronic Gearbox Problems: Early Audi A5 models, particularly those produced between 2007 and 2016, have had more reported instances of Multitronic gearbox problems. These issues 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 Issues: Airbag problems can impact all Audi A5 models. The water pump is crucial in circulating coolant throughout the engine to maintain optimal temperature. When the water pump fails, circulation is disrupted, resulting in the engine overheating and the potential for severe damage to your vehicle.
- Carbon Build-Up: 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.
In summary, the 2018 Audi A5 has several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include excessive oil consumption and turbo failure, sun visor problems, infotainment system issues, Multitronic gearbox problems, airbag issues, and carbon build-up. While these problems can affect all Audi A5 models, the 2018 model seems to have a higher prevalence of certain issues, such as excessive oil consumption and turbo failure. It is essential for potential buyers to be aware of these problems and consider the potential costs of repairs when purchasing a 2018 Audi A5.
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?
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.
Is Audi A5 a reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 72.0/100
The 2023 Audi A5 has a predicted reliability score of 72 out of 100.
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.
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?
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.
Is Audi A5 a reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 72.0/100
The 2023 Audi A5 has a predicted reliability score of 72 out of 100.
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.
2018 Audi A5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Audi A5.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2018 Audi A5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2018 Audi A5.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A disabled passenger air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the connecting cable and either the heating mat or entire seat cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 74E3. This recall is an expansion of Recall 19V-547 (74D9). Vehicles previously repaired under 19V-547 will need to return for the new remedy.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2018 S5 Cabriolet, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, S4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, and 2017-2018 A4 Sedan and A4 Allroad vehicles. Oxidation on the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) connecting cable may cause the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A disabled passenger air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will install cable ties to the harness, free of charge. The recall began September 9, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's number for this recall is 74D9.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of North America (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi A5 Sportback vehicles. The front suspension fasteners may not have been sufficiently tightened during vehicle production, possibly resulting in a front wheel becoming loose.
- Consequence: A loose front wheel may increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the front suspension fasteners, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 23, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40O2.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi A5 Sportback and 2017-2018 Audi A4 Allroad vehicles. A passenger air bag module mounting screw may not have been sufficiently tightened, possibly affecting the deployment of the air bag in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the air bag does not deploy correctly in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of an injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air bag mounting screw, tightening or replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 19, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Y4.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi A5 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles were built with head curtain air bag assemblies that may not unfold properly. As such, these vehicle fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the head curtain air bag, if the air bag does not deploy properly, the vehicle occupants have an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will modify the head curtain air bags so that they deploy properly, free of charge. The recall began on January 18, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 11-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69T7.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad, and 2018 A5 Sportback vehicles. The aluminum trim on the front and rear doors can come loose from around the door speakers, leaving sharp edges exposed.
- Consequence: The sharp edges of the speaker trim increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the speaker cover aluminum trim, free of charge. The recall began March 13, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 70G6.
Negative 2018 Audi A5 car reviews
Positive 2018 Audi A5 car reviews
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I'm quite frugal, so when my trusty 2000 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8 T finally gave up the ghost after 17 years, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I skipped the VW dealership and headed straight to Audi. While the S8 was lovely, it was a bit out of my price range. The A3, with its high roof, looked too much like my old Jetta and would make a nice Pope-mobile. Then I saw the A5. The four-door was nice, but I didn't need to haul my family around in this car - we have a Yukon XL for that. This one was just for me, to move up and down the George Washington Parkway in comfort. It had to be a Coupe. From a styling perspective, there's no contest between the coupe and the sportback. I suppose if you have three kids, you might be compelled to buy the sportback, which gives you an extra seat in the middle. But I have more than three kids, so I might as well have been buying a Ducati. I was a little apprehensive about the 2.0T, which powers quite a few smaller VWs in lesser forms, but this car flies: 0-60 in 5 seconds. Good enough for me, as I have no plans to take it to the drag strip. It's a great car. **Update after one year** I've had my A5 coupe for 14 months now and have had no issues. As I said above, the Audi replaced my 2000 Jetta 1.8T 5-speed manual, which I purchased new and basically traded for the scrap metal value, lol. I have driven manuals since age 16 and still prefer rowing through the gears. Living in northern VA and working inside the beltway, however, constantly pumping a clutch in traffic is not practical. The DSG transmission offers a good compromise, but certainly takes some getting used to. In manual mode, it shifts faster than humanly possible due to one of two concentric clutches being engaged at all times. In normal mode, the automatic shifting is a little spongy, and in sport mode, it tends to be a little jerky when you let off the accelerator.I love driving this car! When I'm on the road, I usually start in sport mode and then switch to normal mode once I'm underway. If I'm feeling adventurous, I'll use manual mode for a quick hole-shot on the highway. It's definitely a tight fit, but I don't understand why people are complaining about storage in a coupe. Of course, it's not the best choice for a family vehicle, but it's perfect for getting me to work, taking my wife out on dates, or shuttling a few kids to baseball practice. I'm so glad I went with the coupe - it's absolutely gorgeous! The only downsides are that the navigation system isn't as user-friendly as Google Maps or WAZE, and the trunk lid tends to dump a bit of water into the trunk when it's wet. But overall, I'm thrilled with my choice!
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I'm on my second Audi A5 prestige model coupe and I absolutely love it! My previous one was a 2010 model and while it was a great car, it was definitely showing its age. The 2018 model is a huge improvement in terms of mechanics, with an incredible engine and transmission that make the car feel even quicker than Audi's published statistics. The steering is also impressive, with just the right amount of weight and road feel. The electronics are top-notch and the cabin materials are exceptional, with a fit and finish that's hard to fault. While the flat dash with the MMI screen may not be the most exciting design, the overall appearance of the interior is still very nice. The exterior design is sleek and modern, although it may not be as unique as the previous model. Overall, this car is a great all-rounder that excels in every aspect. While it may not be the most exciting car out there, it's definitely one that I enjoy driving every day.It drives very well, and the electronics are excellent. The fit, finish, and quality of the interior appointments is also excellent. While it may not have the same level of uniqueness and character as the previous model, it is still a very good car. If you are looking for a reliable and practical option, this car is definitely worth considering. Although I personally prefer the previous model, I still like this car and would recommend it to others.
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Hey there! Before making your purchase, I'd recommend trying out the rear seat. It's the only downside to an otherwise perfect car.
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This car is the best one I have ever owned, even better than my BMWs, Mercedes, and Infinity. If it were all electric, I wouldn't even consider trading or selling it.
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All options and great mileage!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Audi A5 problems:
Audi A5 2018+ Reliability? : r/askcarsales
Jun 13, 2021 ... They're quite reliable. Keep up with the preventive maintenance and you'll be fine. Someone mentioned the 40k service with the transmission, ...
10 of the most common problems with the Audi A5 - BreakerLink Blog
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 ...
2018+ Reliability? - AudiWorld Forums
Jun 13, 2021 ... Audi A5 / S5 / RS5 Coupe & Cabrio (B9) - 2018+ Reliability? - I know this is an Audi forum, so most will say nothing but good things about ...
2018 Audi A5 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Audi A5? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2018 Audi A5 Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Electrical Accessories · In-car Electronics · Engine Minor · Exhaust · Body Hardware · Transmission Major · Steering And ...
Other years of Audi A5
Are you having problems with your 2018 Audi A5?
Napoleon Lemke 2025-02-11
It's been over 2 years and 35k miles since I got Rhi Rhi, and I'm happy to say that she's still a thrill to drive and looks as good as ever. I've taken good care of her with regular maintenance and new tires, but she hasn't had any major issues with the transmission, engine, brakes, or overheating. The paint still looks fantastic with no fading or major scratches, and the interior is holding up well too. Even my Australian Cattle dog hasn't caused any damage to the rear seats, which still look new thanks to the dog hammock I use. The ride and performance are still great, and I even upgraded to better Continental tires which improved road noise and comfort. The sporback is not only good-looking, but also practical with its spacious hatch that can fit even large items like a 65 gallon aquarium. I've noticed several newer ones in the workplace parking lot, and even my BMW-loving colleague traded in his year-old 3 series for one that looks just like mine. He raves about it often, and I have no regrets about my purchase. Despite my dealership's attempts to get me to upgrade to newer models like the S5, RS 5, or S7, I'm perfectly happy with Rhi Rhi as she is.I had a great experience with my Audi A5 Sportback! My personal mechanic, who specializes in German vehicles, told me that this car is a sweet spot that even Audi didn't realize they had created. The ride and performance are still great, and I even noticed an improvement in road noise and comfort after switching to Continental tires. The Sportback is a good-looking vehicle, and the hatch is a huge plus when it comes to loading items from places like home improvement stores. I've even loaded a 65-gallon aquarium in it! Since I've had mine, I've noticed several newer ones in my company's parking lot, and three people have asked me about mine. One of them even traded in his BMW for one that looks just like mine! As far as car purchases go, this is tied for my favorite out of the 13 I've owned. I've had no regrets or buyer's remorse. However, I did experience some issues with the engine at 61k miles, and unfortunately, the warranty had expired. Despite this, I still had a great experience with my Audi A5 Sportback and would recommend it to others.I hope you are doing well. Take care!
Gideon Lesch 2024-11-07
This car is a blast to drive in the summer! The acceleration is phenomenal and the ride is incredibly comfortable. You might even find yourself going 100 without even realizing it! The aerodynamic styling is also very sharp and eye-catching. On the downside, the cup holders in front are in a bit of a bad location as they block some of the controls. Additionally, the glove box has lost some space from previous years and can no longer fit the owner's manual. The small storage box to the left of the steering wheel is also too small for the manual. Lastly, the pockets on the door can be a bit awkward to get items in and out of. Overall, though, this car is a joy to drive in the summer (I have yet to own it during a winter season).