Audi S5 problems
The Audi S5 is one of two high-performance variants of Audi's A5. It is also the coupé, cabriolet, and five-door fastback sedan versions of the fourth-generation (B8) Audi S4 saloon and estate models.
Like all Audi "S" cars, they are only available with Audi's quattro four-wheel drive (4WD) system, here in S5 using a Torsen-based centre diff system.
Most versions of the S5 are manufactured at Audi's plant in Ingolstadt, Germany; they are available as a coupé, cabriolet, and five-door sportback, which was previously not available in North America until the 2018 model year, which was released in the United States in mid 2017. The cabriolets are built at Audi's factory in Neckarsulm, Germany.
Social links
Audi S5 model years
Common Audi S5 problems
The Audi S5, a luxury midsize vehicle, has been known to have a few common problems that affect its dependability. These issues are often related to the DSG transmission, steering system, and engine mounts, which can lead to inconvenient and costly repairs.
- Engine Mount Failure: The Audi S5's engine mounts are also known to fail prematurely, causing excessive vibration and noise, especially during idling or acceleration. This issue can lead to a less comfortable driving experience and, in some cases, can cause damage to other components of the vehicle.
These common problems with the Audi S5 can be expensive to repair, with repairpal.com estimating an annual maintenance cost of $1,164, which is higher than the luxury vehicle average of $739 and much higher than the typical car average of $652. Additionally, Audi S5 owners report bringing their vehicle in for sudden fixes 1.2 times a year, double the .6 average for other luxury mid-size vehicles.
When it comes to specific years of the Audi S5 to avoid, the 2013, 2014, and 2015 models have had the most complaints and reported issues. These years are more prone to errors and can be a stress to keep in one piece as you drive.
In conclusion, the Audi S5, while a powerful and luxurious vehicle, has some common problems that can affect its dependability and cost of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the additional maintenance and repair costs associated with owning an Audi S5.
How reliable is an Audi S5?
Audi S5 owners report bringing their vehicle in for sudden fixes 1.2 times a year, double the . 6 average for other luxury mid-size vehicles. If there is a need to bring the car in, there is a 17% chance the trouble will be severe, much higher than the 12% average of other luxury vehicles.
Is Audi S5 high maintenance?
Audi S5 Repair & Maintenance Costs. The annual maintenance cost of an Audi S5 is $1,164. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Is the Audi S5 worth the money?
It's not perfect — the design compromises rear passenger space and visibility, and the price is a little steep for the top-end Prestige — but it's a highly compelling choice in the class." "The S5 is very balanced for both performance and luxury. It's a beautiful vehicle inside and out and has easy-to-use controls.
How many miles can you get out of an Audi S5?
If properly maintained, Audis can last for 10-13 years or as high as 20 years and can run about 1500,000-200,000 miles.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi S5 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi S5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi S5 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi S5 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi S5 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi S5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi S5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi S5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S5 model years
A total of 2 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by S5 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 81 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi S5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi S5 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi S5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: WAUC4CF50KA
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Our gas tank fuel level sensor is faulty so we can no longer tell how much gas is in our car. The check engine and fuel light are permanently on. This fuel sensor malfunction caused me to run out of gas in the middle of the road. The only way to fix it is to replace the entire gas tank at great expense. We were quoted $3500-$4000. We only have 44K miles on the vehicle.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WAUB4CF50JA
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: •Parking Brake Issue: The parking brake failed to disengage after stopping, leading to an accident. •Intoxalock Device Malfunction: The Intoxalock device malfunctioned with incessant beeping and intermittent error messages, causing distractions. •Previous Complaints and Lack of Resolution: Previous complaints about the parking brake and Intoxalock device were dismissed without proper investigation or resolution. •Parking Brake Failure: The parking brake failed to hold the car, leading to uncontrollable movement and collision with an obstacle. •Intoxalock Device Malfunction: The Intoxalock device malfunctioned, causing distractions and contributing to the accident. •Financial Burden and Lack of Refund: Intoxalock placed the account in collections despite timely payments and failed to refund lockout fees. •Safety Concerns: Parking brake malfunction and faulty Intoxalock device. •Installation Issues: Unprofessional installation and lack of functionality. •Customer Impact: Dangerous situations and potential vehicle damage. Intoxalock’s faulty installation and negligent response to previous complaints led to a parking brake failure and subsequent accident. The incident resulted in significant damage to the vehicle and highlighted the company’s lack of accountability for customer safety. Legal action is being considered due to the ongoing safety risks and unresolved issues.
Audi S5 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-20
- VIN: WAUGGAFR3EA
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering Defective - Do Not Drive Vehicle warning on cluster. Almost impossible to turn steering wheel. Thank goodness did not happen at highway speed. Only 50k miles. YMM not one in the extended warranty that was offered by Audi with this issue. Needed $4k whole new steering rack assembly which was on its 8th revision. Other mult posts with same issue. Audi should expand their help with this issue. Dealership that fixed it was top notch.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-09
- VIN: WAUC4CF57JA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: After driving for 7 to 8 minutes less that 45 mph, a yellow warning lamp and an audible warning indicating unsafe coolant temperature displayed on the dash. An overheating engine is unsafe for me and drivers near me. I immediately pulled over and turned off the A/C. I then turned on the heater, and after 15 minutes slowly drove 5 minutes to a repair shop (Import Autohaus, Hull Street). The repair shop diagnosed a defective water pump. The pump has not been inspected by anyone other than the mechanics at the repair shop.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-23
- VIN: WAUB4CF51JA
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: I received a coolant overheating message, pulled to side of road. Let vehicle cool off although it just showed coolant warning and actual engine temperature showed normal along with oil temperature. Started car back up and it was ok, drove about a mile, engine started steaming, white smoke out of exhaust, system failure had to pull off and be towed. Engine is destroyed at 72,833 miles.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-04
- VIN: WAUB4CF53JA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was returning home from visiting family. My drive was approx 140 miles home. The car was running/driving normally when I stopped at a gas station to get a snack. When I came back to my car and attempted to start it, it would not start and had camshaft and crankshaft sensor DTC's. I had to tow the car to my repair shop who determined that the issue was the rocker arms. Despite performing regular maintenance above and beyond what the manufacturer recommends, two rocker arms fell apart inside the engine (needle bearings came out) and sent metal through the engine, causing it to need to be replaced. It was later determined that this was a known issue by Audi, and that they redesigned the rocker arms at a later date. The did not issue a recall or any extended warranty for the effected models. This cost me $16,349 out of pocket to repair. I contacted Audi several times and they refused to rectify the issue. I have came across several others who have experienced the same issue. I have supporting documentation as well as part numbers and dates that I can provide upon request. This type of issue is a saftey concern because this can leave a driver stranded. When this issue happend I was over 75 miles away from home. Luckily I was able to find a tow truck and had the funds to cover the expense of having the car towed back to my home town. However, this issue could leave someone stranded in the middle of nowhere if they werent as lucky as I was.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-18
- VIN: WAUR4AF59JA
- Components: AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The system warning keeps coming on, I’ve tried to schedule appointments with Audi since 2022 and they have zero appointments available
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-05
- VIN: WAUC4CF54JA
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof exploded. Driving on a good quality highway (CA76), no temperature extremes, no bumps or potholes. Heard what sounded like a gunshot. Pulled over thinking it might be a tire failure, to find my sunroof severely shattered. There was no debris inside the car, other than the shattered glass itself.
Audi S5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-26
- VIN: WAUC4CF59JA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My 2018 Audi S5 Prestige with 59K miles meticulously maintained by the dealer had the Suspension Warning light came on about a week ago. I brought it to my local Audi mechanic and they found the right rear spring had broken about 1/3 of the way from the base and the shock had been damaged from the spring breaking. They attributed it low quality steel being used in the springs Audi is using. Luckily it was a rear spring as I understand a front spring breaking at speed could be catastrophic.
Audi S5 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-11
- VIN: WAU3GAFR8DA
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I smelled a super strong gas smell from my car leaking somewhere in the engine hidden by other parts, it smells so bad it’s hard to be in the car it’s a fire hazard. Due to the fuel the car hardly starts due to the fuel not getting to the engine
Audi S5 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-02
- VIN: WAUCGAFR7DA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: mechatronic unit failed incident : random jerking when driving had to pull the car over car lost power "gear box malfunction" code on my dashboard. after replacing the mechatornic unit had to pay 5127 dollars out of pocket to get fixed
Audi S5 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-15
- VIN: WAUC4CF59LA
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This vehicle has a failed SOS module, which breaks hands free Bluetooth/emergency calling, which is a safety concern. This also breaks parts of the MMI system that were purchased but now do not function as designed. Audi of America does not seem to take this issue very seriously, as there was a recall but it was cancelled, yet there are still thousands of vehicles affected. I have spoken to several people with same make/model/year vehicle as mine and they have the same exact symptoms. AoA has not seemingly corrected supply chain issues with this defective part. I have been waiting 2+ months for a fix, with little to no timeframe of resolution since purchasing the vehicle. I feel that AoA needs to make more of a good-faith effort for this problem, due to length of resolution.
Audi S5 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-07
- VIN: WAUC4CF50PA
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel gauge does not move at all and showed tank was 5/8 full. However, when I was on the freeway, the vehicle stalled because I was out of gas. Luckily, I was on the right lane and therefore was able to pull over to the side without an incident. This is a new vehicle with faulty fuel sensors. Audi should have QC'd before releasing the vehicle for sale.
Audi S5 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-20
- VIN: WAUVGAFR6EA
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Backup camera, and MMI SYSTEM DONT WORK GOOGLE MAP,suspension front has been replaced at 90k miles
Audi S5 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-30
- VIN: WAUCGAFR9EA
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Whenever the ambient temperature outside goes above 95F degrees or I sit in traffic for long periods of time the shuts off. Other times it stalls. There are no warning lamps that turn on to warn of impending shut off. When the car was scanned for codes My scanner shows a “low fuel pressure” code or “steam bubble formation” code.
Latest 5 recalls Audi S5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 18 recalls for different components of the Audi S5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi S5 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
- Model: Audi S5 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
- Model: Audi S5 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
- Model: Audi S5 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
- Model: Audi S5 2020
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
Latest negative Audi S5 car reviews
Latest positive Audi S5 car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2023
I've had the 2019 S5 Coupe for a year now and it still looks great in Quantum Gray with the Black Optic wheel package. I continue to receive compliments on it. I love how responsive it is when handling traffic and merging onto the highway with its 350 hp. The interior is both comfortable and stylish, and the electronics seem to enhance the connection between driver, car, and road.
-
Vehicle year: 2021
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new S5 Sportback! It sounds like you're really impressed with its performance, appearance, and the ease of use of its infotainment system. It's great to hear that you find the system easy to comprehend, especially compared to the Lexus GS system which you've been trying to figure out for 3 years.
-
Vehicle year: 2018
It's great to hear about your experience with the S5! It's been about 10 years since you last owned a German car and with great excitement, you bought the S5. You had everything you wanted: horsepower, handling, all wheel drive and it looked awesome! Your friends said quality and reliability was unbeatable. However, it seems that the windows don't really work when it gets cold. It's frustrating to spend $60K for a car and the windows won't work. You took it to the dealership twice and although they couldn't replicate the issue the second time, it's still a bummer. You're waiting for the lease to complete and you can go back to the reliable Acura. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
-
Vehicle year: 2015
Ok .... If you're like me, you're probably reading these reviews to help you decide between different brands. But don't worry, I've got you covered. I highly recommend this car. Sure, the gas mileage isn't great, but who cares? You don't get a V8 for free. It's a sexy, fun, fast, and reliable car. And did I mention how much fun it is? This is by far the best car I've ever owned.
-
Vehicle year: 2023
I had an 06 A5 Premium convertible. Although it was gorgeous and fun to drive, it lacked the power I was looking for. However, this one has the horsepower that my 06 Mustang GT had after some modifications, and I doubt the Mustang could outrun it. That's really saying something, folks! I know it's a prestige and some might say that's taking it a little too far if all you're after is horsepower, but I don't regret it. I took it on a 2000 mile trip and was pleasantly surprised by the mpg, even while doing 80-90 mph on the interstate. How does 31 mpg sound? Speaking of sound, WOW! It may take you a while to learn all the features, but you'll enjoy the process and what Audi has done. As for drawbacks, the auto stop engine feature when idling may be a concern for some, but the feature functions flawlessly. This is a 10-year car for us. My wife drives it more than I do and absolutely loves it! It's white with the red interior, so it's kind of on the feminine side, but she looks awesome in it!
Are you having problems with your Audi S5?
Payton King 2025-05-25
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased a low mileage (30,000 miles) vehicle from an Audi dealer after doing my research and having access to the complete vehicle history. However, after driving the car for 5 months, the transmission warning light came on. The dealer informed me that the module needed to be replaced and that it would cost in excess of $7,000.00. Unfortunately, they could not guarantee the complete transmission, only the module. As a result, I decided to sell the car. It is advisable to purchase an extended warranty if you plan to buy an Audi S5. It is important to note that I am over 60 and this was intended to be my retirement fun car. I have never experienced transmission problems with any of my previous cars.
Nestor Pouros 2025-05-01
Vehicle year: 2018
Although the vehicle may look stunning and has impressive acceleration, it may not be the best choice for day-to-day driving. The author has experienced several issues with their vehicle, including airbag and engine thermostat failures, as well as rattles and squeaks. The sound system has also caused problems with buzzing speaker covers. Additionally, the throttle response is laggy, which can be frustrating in city driving. Many people on Audi forums have expressed similar concerns. It's important to note that the author loved their previous 2014 S4 and found it superior in every way except for design and electronics. It's also worth mentioning that the vehicle's fuel economy is around 17mpg in 50/50 city/highway driving.
Roosevelt Kihn 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 2023
The crash avoidance technology in this car has some flaws that need to be addressed. During my experience with the car, I found it to be extremely intrusive and on three separate occasions, it nearly caused me to have an accident by suddenly stopping in the middle of an intersection. For example, when I was trying to cross traffic in a common left turn lane and a car came opposite, the Audi would anticipate a head-on collision and stop my car suddenly. I had a 2016 S5 and I found the technology to work just fine. However, the 2018 update changed this technology dramatically, which I did not appreciate.
Hiram Marvin 2025-04-04
Vehicle year: 2021
The crash avoidance technology in this car has some flaws that need to be addressed. During my experience with the car, I encountered some situations where the technology was overly intrusive and caused me some concern. Specifically, on three occasions, the car suddenly stopped in the middle of an intersection, nearly causing an accident. For example, when I was trying to cross traffic in a common left turn lane and a car came opposite, the Audi would anticipate a head-on collision and stop my car suddenly. I have previously owned a 2016 S5 and found the technology to work just fine. However, the 2018 update changed this technology dramatically, and I found it to be quite frustrating.
Gayle Macejkovic 2025-02-26
Vehicle year: 2015
The car was sold at 68,000 miles. Although it developed problems with the transmission and differential, as well as creaking and squeaking in the body, the repair costs were astronomical, including oil changes and brakes.