2008 Audi S5 problems

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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.

2008 Audi S5

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Common 2008 Audi S5 problems

The 2008 Audi S5 is a luxury sports car that offers a blend of performance and comfort. However, like any other vehicle, it can have certain common problems that may affect its reliability and overall ownership experience. In this article, we will discuss some of the common problems with the 2008 Audi S5 based on complaints from owners of this car.

  1. Low Coolant: One of the most common problems with the 2008 Audi S5 is low coolant levels. This issue can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly. The coolant system in the S5 can develop leaks due to the failure of hoses, seals, or gaskets. It is essential to check the coolant level regularly and look for any signs of leaks.
  2. A/C Not As Cold As It Should Be: Some owners of the 2008 Audi S5 have reported issues with the air conditioning system. The A/C may not blow cold air or may take longer than usual to cool down the cabin. This problem can be due to a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a damaged condenser. It is crucial to have the A/C system inspected and repaired by a professional if you notice any issues.
  3. Seat Adjustments Not Working: The seat adjustments in the 2008 Audi S5 can malfunction due to faulty wiring or a blown fuse. This issue can prevent the seat from moving forward or backward, affecting the driver's comfort and safety. It is essential to have the seat adjustment system inspected and repaired by a professional if you notice any issues.
  4. Suspension Problems: The 2008 Audi S5 can develop suspension problems due to worn-out bushings, shocks, or struts. This issue can affect the car's handling and ride quality, making it uncomfortable to drive. It is crucial to have the suspension system inspected and repaired by a professional if you notice any issues.
  5. Blown Turbo: Some owners of the 2008 Audi S5 have reported issues with the turbocharger. The turbo can fail due to a lack of lubrication, a blown seal, or a damaged compressor wheel. This issue can cause a loss of power, a decrease in fuel efficiency, and a loud noise from the engine. It is essential to have the turbocharger inspected and repaired by a professional if you notice any issues.
  6. Carbon Buildup: The 2008 Audi S5 can develop carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the use of low-quality fuel or a lack of regular maintenance. This issue can affect the engine's performance and fuel efficiency. It is essential to use high-quality fuel and have the engine serviced regularly to prevent carbon buildup.
  7. High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure: The high-pressure fuel pump in the 2008 Audi S5 can fail due to wear and tear or a lack of regular maintenance. This issue can cause a loss of power, a decrease in fuel efficiency, and a loud noise from the engine. It is essential to have the fuel pump inspected and replaced by a professional if you notice any issues.
  8. Injector Issues: The 2008 Audi S5 can develop injector issues due to wear and tear or a lack of regular maintenance. This issue can cause a loss of power, a decrease in fuel efficiency, and a rough idle. It is essential to have the injectors inspected and replaced by a professional if you notice any issues.
  9. Timing Chain Guides: The timing chain guides in the 2008 Audi S5 can fail due to wear and tear or a lack of regular maintenance. This issue can cause a loss of power, a decrease in fuel efficiency, and a loud noise from the engine. It is essential to have the timing chain guides inspected and replaced by a professional if you notice any issues.

In conclusion, the 2008 Audi S5 is a luxury sports car that can have certain common problems that may affect its reliability and overall ownership experience. It is essential to address these issues promptly by having the car inspected and repaired by a professional. Regular maintenance can also help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

2008 Audi S5 engine

Is the 2008 Audi S5 reliable?

The Audi S5 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 30th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,164 which means it has poor ownership costs.

Is the Audi S5 a reliable car?

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?

An Audi S5 will cost about $9,094 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury hatchback models by $2,261. There is also a 25.29% chance that a S5 will require a major repair during that time.

Is Audi S5 worth the money?

Upgrading to the S5 costs almost $10,000 over the base A5 but if you're like us you'll find the extra performance well worth it. The S5's personality is a little tamer than some of its direct competition, though, which include the Caddy CT4-V Blackwing and the Mercedes-AMG C43.

Is the 2008 Audi S5 reliable?

The Audi S5 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 30th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,164 which means it has poor ownership costs.

Are Audi S5 reliable?

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 2009 Audi S5 V8 reliable?

Most reliable German car I had

This car is great value for the money. Being that it's the last V8 it's a must drive sounds amazing and has plenty of power. It's a great daily driver I put over 110k on it and still driving great and never left me stranded in the snow.

Is Audi S5 high maintenance?

An Audi S5 will cost about $9,094 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury hatchback models by $2,261. There is also a 25.29% chance that a S5 will require a major repair during that time.

2008 Audi S5 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S5 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Audi S5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2008 Audi S5 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Audi S5.

2019-04-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-13
  • VIN: WAURV78T78A
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEEDS THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION SYNCOS WEAR OUT PREMATURELY CAUSING GRINDING INTO GEARS AND FAILURE TO ENGAGE GEARS WICH CAN CAUSE STALLS OR SUDDEN LOSS OF SPEED. IV BEEN TOLD ITS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AMONG THESE VEHICLES.
2018-04-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-03-12
  • VIN: WAURV78T28A
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI S5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V376000 (AIR BAGS). THE FAILURE WAS A SAFETY CONCERN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK THE FOLLOWING DAY TO THE DEALER (AUDI OMAHA, 808 N 102ND ST, SUITE B, OMAHA, NE 68114, 402-393-7000) AND THE TECHNICIAN DENIED ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FAILURE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE EXISTED PRIOR TO THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 129,000.
2013-01-02

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-12-31
  • VIN: WAURV78T48A
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI S5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SIDE AIR BAG WAS LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THEY ADVISED HIM THAT THE SUNROOF SHOULD HAVE DRAINED THE EXCESS WATER BUT IT WAS ENTERING THROUGH THE AIR BAG INSTEAD. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE SUNROOF CONNECTION WOULD NEED REPAIRING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 32,000.

Positive 2008 Audi S5 car reviews

  1. Jasper Leannon 2024-11-11

    I took delivery of this car back in late January 2008 and have since logged close to 2500 miles in mixed driving. I must say, the car handles phenomenally and turns heads wherever I go. The build quality is impeccable, and the interior and exterior design make this car truly unique. I also considered the 335xi, but the Audi's interior was more aesthetically pleasing, with a driver-centric layout. Despite the car's weight, the handling is precise, and it feels like it's on rails, especially in the twisties where it simply attacks the corners. The biggest downside is the V8 gas consumption, but the joy of driving this car makes the sub-par gas mileage bearable.

  2. Rolando Kuhn 2024-08-08

    Congratulations on your new Audi! It sounds like you're having a blast driving it. I completely agree that Audi is known for their excellent interiors and beautiful exterior design. The V8 engine sounds amazing and I'm glad to hear that the car-driver intuitive design is appreciated. Although the gas mileage may be a concern, I'm sure the driving experience makes up for it. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

  3. Afton Bahringer 2024-07-10

    The bluetooth may bring some connection headaches, but overall, it's a great machine. While some key functions may not be as well connected, it's still very comfortable and extremely smooth in gear shifting. Plus, it has an awesome shape and look to it. Just be mindful of the low base when parking or going through dips to avoid scratching the front bottom bumper.

  4. Wade Schamberger 2024-06-08

    As the first reviewer, I haven't had the car long enough to answer all questions, but I can say that I went in for an A6/R6 and ended up with this 'one and only' car after a friend showed it to me. It's just as enjoyable to drive as it is to look at. The DI V8 has a unique sound that I wasn't sure about at first, but it's growing on me. I'm looking forward to putting more mileage on it and really testing its capabilities. Quick checks indicate that the MPG is around 22 when on the road. The 6-speed transmission is a joy to use and I appreciate the way it shifts. While I would have preferred an automatic, it wasn't available for 4-5 months and may not have been an option for the S5 anyway.

  5. Lonny Lakin 2024-05-04

    In just 3 weeks of owning my Audi S5, I have already received numerous compliments on this exceptional ride. As a car enthusiast with a diverse collection ranging from SUVs to American Muscle cars to Japanese rides like the G-35 coupe, I can confidently say that the S5 is a top performer. The V-8 engine is incredibly responsive in all gears, while the ride remains smooth and comfortable. The ergonomics are well-designed, and the spacious trunk is a plus. The tight handling and attention-grabbing daytime running lights make for an exhilarating driving experience. While there are some areas for improvement, such as the electronic speed limit and lack of voice-activated Bluetooth, these minor drawbacks do not detract from the overall excellence of this vehicle.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Audi S5 problems:

Audi S5 4.2, need to know common issues! - AudiWorld Forums
Audi S5 4.2, need to know common issues! - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/audi-a5-s5-rs5-coupe-cabrio-b8-125/audi-s5-4-2-need-know-common-issues-2863423/

Mar 24, 2014 ... Audi S5 4.2, need to know common issues! · Engine: Fix Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak · Suspension: Replaced ALL front Upper and lower Control ...

Common issues for the B8 S5 4.2 V8 - Forum
Common issues for the B8 S5 4.2 V8 - Forum
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/927692-Common-issues-for-the-B8-S5-4-2-V8

Apr 13, 2021 ... Hello and welcome to the Audizine Forums! As a guest, you are welcome to poke around and view the majority of the content that we have to offer, ...

S5 4.2 V8 common problems - AudiWorld Forums
S5 4.2 V8 common problems - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/audi-a5-s5-rs5-coupe-cabrio-b8-125/s5-4-2-v8-common-problems-2954260/

Jul 26, 2018 ... Age, overheat, mineral oil rather than synthetic, and excessive long (I don't believe the factory oil change intervals except for my leased cars ...

2010-2011 Audi S5 4.2L V8 Maintenance and Reliability
2010-2011 Audi S5 4.2L V8 Maintenance and Reliability
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/665432-2010-2011-Audi-S5-4-2L-V8-Maintenance-and-Reliability

Aug 24, 2015 ... 2010-2011 Audi S5 4.2L V8 Maintenance and Reliability. Hello all I'm new from NJ, sorry if this has been posted several times, I swear I tried ...

Insight on Audi S5 reliability?| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
Insight on Audi S5 reliability?| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/insight-on-audi-s5-reliability/108566/page1/

Insight on Audi S5 reliability ... problems would be to keep the engine ... common problem, but a lot of cars have gone 150K miles without issues.

Other years of Audi S5

audi s5 2010 photo
S5 2010
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audi s5 2011 photo
S5 2011
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audi s5 2012 photo
S5 2012
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audi s5 2013 photo
S5 2013
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audi s5 2014 photo
S5 2014
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audi s5 2015 photo
S5 2015
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