Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Audi A5 (8T) is known for (2008–2013), 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.
What to look for: Listen at a cold start for more than a second of rattle from the front (radiator end) of the engine.
Why it matters: A jumped timing chain on this engine typically bends valves and can stall the car without warning while driving, and the repair runs from a chain and tensioner replacement up to a full engine rebuild costing many thousands of dollars.
What to look for: Check the air conditioning blows noticeably colder within a minute on max cold with the fan on high.
Why it matters: Audi TSB 2020124/2 (April 2010) names the G395 sensor and its LIN cable as causes; an improved sensor (8K0 959 126B) was introduced. Cheap if that is the cause, but an A/C that does not work is a retail objection and the same symptom can mask a refrigerant leak elsewhere.
Sources: 1
What to look for: Ask Audi NZ for the open recall list for this VIN, and look for Japanese recall stickers under the bonnet.
Why it matters: The Australian recall register covers Australian-delivered vehicles only - the recall index used throughout this overlay states that on every page. Recalls cited here were retrieved from that register and from NHTSA; the same factory campaigns ran in Japan under MLIT, but MLIT records were not retrieved in this session.
Got a question about a Audi A5 (8T)? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
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.