Audi A5 common problems: what to check before you buy
Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Audi A5 is known for (2008–2016), 1 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
Known problems on the Audi A5
Piston ring wear and oil burning
Costly if missed
2012–2017 · 2.0 TFSI EA888 gen 3 · petrol · Engine
What to look for: Check the oil level, look for blue smoke at cold start, and ask if the pistons have been replaced.
Why it matters: A US class action (Gonzalez v. Volkswagen Group of America, D.N.J. 1:21-cv-15026, filed 9 Aug 2021) alleges that piston rings in these engines fail to seat and can fracture; a settlement reached preliminary approval and a claims site went live in 2024, covering 75% of repair cost for 9 yr / 90,000 mi in the United States.
What to look for: Crouch at each front wheel and check the arch lip and the arch-to-sill join for bubbling or flaking paint.
Why it matters: Forum reports describe this as a common fault that Audi added a protection strip for from the B8.5, and which Audi has treated as "outside in" rust not covered by the corrosion warranty, so an affected car needs arch repair or repainting the buyer should budget for.
Got a question about a Audi A5? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
Also check on every car
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.