2005 Audi A8 problems
The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi since 1994. Succeeding the Audi V8, and now in its fourth generation, the A8 has been offered with both front- or permanent all-wheel drive—and in short- and long-wheelbase variants. The first two generations employed the Volkswagen Group D platform, with the current generation deriving from the MLB platform. After the original model's 1994 release, Audi released the second generation in late 2002, the third in late 2009, and the fourth and current iteration in 2017. Noted as the first mass-market car with an aluminium chassis, all A8 models have used this construction method co-developed with Alcoa and marketed as the Audi Space Frame.
A mechanically upgraded, high-performance version of the A8 debuted in 1996 as the Audi S8. Produced exclusively at Audi's Neckarsulm plant, the S8 is fitted standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. The S8 was only offered with a short-wheelbase for the first three generations, being joined by a long-wheelbase variant for the fourth generation.
D2 (Typ 4D; 1994–2002)
Development
In 1982, Ferdinand Piëch signed an agreement with Aluminum Company of America. The objective was to design and develop a car that would be substantially lighter than any other vehicles in its class (to compensate for the fact that standard all-wheel drive was around 100 kg (220 lb) heavier than competitors' rear-wheel drive). In the late 1980s, it was decided that the target vehicle would be a successor to the V8 (Typ 4C) flagship introduced in 1988. By 1990, a final design by Chris Bird and Dirk van Braeckel was chosen and frozen for series production in mid-1991. In September 1993, the Audi Space Frame (ASF) Concept was unveiled at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) as a D2 Typ 4D prototype in polished aluminum. Pilot production began in December 1993 and development ended in early 1994, at a total cost of $700 million (£418.1 million).
Social links
Common 2005 Audi A8 problems
The Audi A8, a full-size luxury sedan, has been known to have several common problems, particularly in the 2005 model year. These issues include transmission troubles, electrical problems, and oil leaks.
Transmission troubles are a significant concern in the Audi A8. The transmission system is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, ensuring smooth and efficient driving. In the 2005 Audi A8, transmission issues can lead to poor acceleration, hesitation, and even complete transmission failure. These problems are often caused by worn-out or damaged transmission components, such as the torque converter or clutch.
Electrical problems are another common issue in the 2005 Audi A8. The car features a complex electrical system, which includes various sensors, actuators, and control modules. Electrical issues can cause a range of problems, from minor inconveniences like malfunctioning interior lights to major safety concerns like engine stalling or failure. Common electrical problems in the Audi A8 include faulty sensors, blown fuses, and wiring issues.
Oil leaks are also a common problem in the 2005 Audi A8. Oil leaks can occur in various parts of the engine, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil cooler lines. These leaks can lead to a decrease in engine performance and efficiency, as well as increased wear and tear on engine components. In severe cases, oil leaks can even cause engine failure.
In addition to these common problems, the 2005 Audi A8 is also known for issues with its air suspension system. The air suspension system is responsible for maintaining the car's ride height and providing a smooth ride. However, the system can fail due to various reasons, including leaks in the air lines or compressor failure. When this happens, the car may sit low to the ground, leading to decreased ground clearance and potential damage to the undercarriage.
The 2005 Audi A8's electronic parking brake is another component that can fail. The electronic parking brake motor can fail, leading to the brake being unable to hold the car in place. This can be a significant safety concern, particularly when parked on an incline.
The air suspension system and electronic parking brake are just a few examples of the complex electrical components found in the 2005 Audi A8. These components can fail due to various reasons, including wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or damage from accidents. When this happens, repairs can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring specialized tools and expertise.
To avoid these common problems, it's essential to properly maintain the 2005 Audi A8. This includes regular inspections and servicing, as well as addressing any issues promptly. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of the car and reduce the risk of costly repairs. However, even with proper maintenance, the 2005 Audi A8 may still experience these common problems due to its complex design and various electrical components.
Is the Audi A8 a reliable car?
According to whatcar.com, the Audi A8 has a decent reputation for reliability. Some years are terrible, but most come out about average. According to audicomplaints.com, the Audi A8 ranks 7th out of 19 Audi models. It's far from the worst, but it's not even close to the best.
Is buying a used Audi A8 a good idea?
Audi A8: The Audi A8 is one of the most dependable full-size luxury sedans on the used car market. It also impresses with its powerful engine, outstanding fuel economy, and upscale interior.
How long do Audi A8 engines last?
Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained.
Is Audi A8 expensive to maintain?
Maintenance and repair costs for an Audi A8 will amount to $2,843 after 5 years.
Is Audi A8 a reliable car?
According to whatcar.com, the Audi A8 has a decent reputation for reliability. Some years are terrible, but most come out about average. According to audicomplaints.com, the Audi A8 ranks 7th out of 19 Audi models. It's far from the worst, but it's not even close to the best.
Is buying a used Audi A8 a good idea?
Audi A8: The Audi A8 is one of the most dependable full-size luxury sedans on the used car market. It also impresses with its powerful engine, outstanding fuel economy, and upscale interior.
How long do Audi A8 engines last?
How Many Miles Does an Audi Last? Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained.
Is Audi A8 safe?
The 2024 Audi A8 checks all the boxes when it comes to style and luxury, and it also leaves little to be desired regarding safety and security.
2005 Audi A8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A8 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Equipment adaptive/mobility problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Audi A8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2005 Audi A8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Audi A8.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-21
- VIN: WAUMR44E65N
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: ADAPTIVE MODULE J428 FAILED AND BRAKES SEIZED WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION.. AUDI CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID THAT SINCE THEY COULD NOT FIND A RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS NINE YEARS OLD THEY THOUGHT IT WAS NOT THEIR PROBLEM. I THINK THE PROBLEM COULD HAVE E RESULTED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT AT HIGH SPEEDS AND COULD HAVE KILLED ME. I PAID FOR THE REPAIR BUT TOLD THEM THEY SHOULD CHECK INTO THE PROBLEM BECAUSE OF THE SAFETY ISSUE BUT DID NOT RECEIVE A POSITIVE RESPONSE. I FEEL THE PROBLEM SHOULD BE RESEARCHED AND I WOULD LIKE FEED BACK ON ANY INFORMATION THAT WOULD RESULT FROM THE RESEARCH. *TR
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-28
- VIN: WAUML44E45N
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY 2005 AUDI A8L CONTAINS A DEFECT WHICH ALLOWS THE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT TO POP OFF IT'S RESTRAINING/LOCATING PEGS ENABLING THE MAT TO MOVE FORWARD AND PUSH AND HOLD THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DOWN, RESULTING RUNAWAY ACCELERATION, THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM SIMILAR TO WHAT TOYOTA OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED AND FOR WHICH TOYOTA HAS INSTITUTED A LARGE RECALL. THIS SITUATION HAS OCCURRED AT LEAST SEVEN TIMES TO THREE SEPARATE DRIVERS OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS. AT THE FIRST OCCURRENCE TO EACH ME AND MY WIFE, WE WERE ABLE TO CONTROL THE ACCELERATION WITH THE BRAKE TO BUY SUFFICIENT TIME TO GATHER OUR WITS AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, THOUGH IT WAS SCARY. NOW WE KNOW TO APPLY THE BRAKE AND PULL THE MAT BACK, REPLACING IT ON ITS PEGS ONCE WE STOP. AFTER THE FIRST OCCASION, I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO MY LOCAL AUDI DEALER IN DANBURY, CONN. THEY KEPT IT FOR THREE DAYS, HAD IT INSPECTED BY "CORPORATE" PEOPLE, AND IN WRITING CONCLUDED THAT EVERYTHING WAS "OPERATING AS DESIGNED AND INTENDED." THE SERVICE WRITER AT THE DANBURY AUDI DEALER TOLD ME THAT AUDI FELT THE PROBLEM WAS THE FLOOR MAT, AND SUGGESTED I PURCHASE HEAVY WINTER-TYPE MATS. I RENEWED MY COMPLAINT TO AUDI IN THE FALL OF 2009 IN LIGHT OF THE TOYOTA ISSUE, BUT THEY AGAIN DENIED THERE WAS ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND COMPLAINT, WE EXPERIENCED AT LEAST FIVE MORE EPISODES OF RUNAWAY ACCELERATION CAUSED BY THE FLOOR MAT PUSHING AGAINST THE ACCELERATOR. I TRY TO BE VIGILANT NOW EACH TIME I DRIVE THE CAR TO LOOK AT THE POSITION OF THE FLOOR MAT. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-15
- VIN: WAULL44E75N
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 AUDI A8. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED THE CONTACT HEARD A BELL SOUND AND THE CRUISE CONTROL FAILED. THE VEHICLE DECELERATED, BUT DID NOT SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER APPROXIMATELY TEN TIMES, BUT THE CAUSE OF FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A NORMAL CHARACTERISTIC OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 23,800, AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,000. *AK UPDATE 05/04/07*TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WAUML44E15N
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OWNER WAS DRIVING THE AUDI HOME WHEN HE SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING. HE PULLED OVER AND OBSERVED A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. FIRE BURNED WITH GREATEST INTENSITY IN LOWER LEFT REAR OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT, FROM LOCATION OF LEFT SIDE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. SPARK PLUGS REMOVED FROM ENGINE SHOWED OVERFUELING PROBLEM IN #6 AND #8 CYLINDERS ON LEFT BANK, CAUSING CATALYTIC CONVERTER TO OVERHEAT AND START THE FIRE. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-09
- VIN: WAUML44E85N
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH AND PREPARING TO STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED, THE EMERGENCY BRAKE ENGAGED AND THE WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASH ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE MANEUVERED OFF THE ROAD AND WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, WHO DETERMINED THE ENTIRE COMPUTER SYSTEM FAILED. THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO LIQUID WHICH SPILLED IN THE BACK SEAT, RAN DOWN INTO THE SEAT, AND CAME INTO CONTACT WITH THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING CONTROL MODULE. THE DEALER REPLACED THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING CONTROL MODULE, STEERING WHEEL AND LOCK. UPDATED 10/25/2006 - *NM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-20
- VIN: WAUML44E65N
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING 40 MPH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS RELEASED. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE DEALERSHIP WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE A PROBLEM. A SECOND TIME, WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS RELEASED AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED TO 100 MPH. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE SLOWED TO 70 MPH THEN THE VEHICLE SPED UP AGAIN. THE CONTACT USED THE PARKING BRAKE TO SLOW THE VEHICLE TO 45 MPH, AND THEN APPLIED BOTH FEET TO THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE VEHICLE. ONCE AT A STOP, THE VEHICLE WAS PUT IN NEUTRAL AND THE RPM'S RED LINED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN PUT IN PARK AND THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CALLED TO TOW THE VEHICLE, BUT THERE WOULD BE AN HOUR WAIT. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT THE DEALERSHIP IS UNABLE TO DETERMINE A PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER HAS SENT A REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER INSPECTION. UPDATED 4/11/2006 - THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM WAS INOPERATIVE. THE TRUNK FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. *NM
2005 Audi A8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2005 Audi A8.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DURING PRODUCTION OF THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIR BAG, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT UNFOLD PROPERLY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH AND THEREFORE MAY NOT INFLATE AS DESIGNED.
- Consequence: LOSS OF FRONTAL AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD OCCUR WHICH CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY IN A FRONTAL CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIR BAG FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 6, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.
Negative 2005 Audi A8 car reviews
Positive 2005 Audi A8 car reviews
-
You won't believe how amazing this luxury sedan is! It's even better than the BMW 700 series and the Mercedes Benz S series, which I've also owned.
-
The back seat, also known as the 'living room', is incredibly spacious, allowing passengers to really stretch out. It's so comfortable that most passengers fall asleep within the first 10 minutes of the drive. The interior compartment is beautifully designed, with a refined layout and a grand suede headliner. The handling is exceptional, surpassing even my 2002 A6 4.2, which is most likely due to the adaptive suspension.
-
I believe that this car surpasses any other car in its class. In fact, I think it's the best car.
-
I have loved the A8 since the D3 model was first shown. I waited patiently for the pricing to drop to a level I could afford (preowned). I have had my CPO car for 4 months and 5K miles, and I still love it. Although it is not as reliable as my 98 Lexus GS400 which had almost nothing go wrong with it after 145K miles, I still think it's a great car. I just had a number of things replaced at the 45K mile service, such as the trunk hinges (common problem), parktronic sensor, airbag sensor, and one softclose door sensor. Even with these little problems, I still love the car. No serious issue that will leave you stranded, but still something small that requires a trip to the dealer. I do not regret my choice, regardless.
-
I purchased the A8 to replace a BMW 740I and I have never regretted my decision. The fit and finish, ride comfort, overall performance, quiet ride, and responsiveness of the A8 have made me happy for the last 3 and a half years. Although I experienced a couple of electronic issues in the first 3 months, I have simply changed the oil and replaced the tires. Now, I am ready to downsize to a smaller sedan and I will definitely head straight to my Audi dealer for the new A5.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Audi A8 problems:
2005 Audi A8 L Reliability : r/Audi
Jul 4, 2022 ... If your focus is reliability, a 17 year old audi with 100k miles is likely not going to be at the top of the list of most reliable. However, ...
Maintance and Common Problems - AudiForums.com
Sep 5, 2008 ... Audi A8 - Maintance and Common Problems - I will start with the D2 A8 97-03 MAINTENACE: 1. For the 4.2L and 3.7L engines you will need to ...
Audi A8 Quattro Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top Audi A8 Quattro Problems · Overheating Due to Failing Thermostat · Rainwater May Accumulate in Plenum Tray Due to Clogged Drains · Premature Wear in Multi-Link ...
Considering 2005-2009 A8 W12 - AudiWorld Forums
Jan 29, 2018 ... I'd probably prefer to stay in the 2005-2007 range in order to put money aside for repairs. I'm not expecting the reliability to be on par with ...
Audi A8: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Audi A8 Common Problems and Solutions · Water in Footwell · Timing Chain Rattle · Electronic handbrake problems · Air temperature sensor failure · MMI (Multi Media ...
Other years of Audi A8
Are you having problems with your 2005 Audi A8?
Dominic Borer 2024-11-20
I have been the owner of this car for almost four years now. Unfortunately, the electronics in the car have been quite problematic. Despite having taken it to the shop over a dozen times, the issues still persist. However, I must say that many of the problems are not constant and only occur episodically. For instance, sometimes the lights won't go off unless you restart the car and drive it around for a few minutes before turning it off. At other times, it will indicate that a tire is low on air pressure when it is actually fine. I have decided to dispose of it and switch to a Lexus. I would not recommend buying this car as its reliability is not up to par.
Randal Bauch 2024-04-06
The car is great, but I've been having some trouble with the NAV and radio shorting out. Audi has acknowledged the issue and is working on a solution, but as of now, there is no fix. It seems that only a few mid-year models are affected. We also purchased the Audi phone, but unfortunately, it hasn't lived up to our expectations. The sound quality is poor and it feels like a waste of money.
Diego Wehner 2024-02-24
This sedan is fast and good-looking, with plenty of room inside. It also has good gas mileage, especially on the highway. However, the nav system and MMI operation can be a bit annoying, and the transmission is a bit quirky.