The Audi A5 Years To Avoid
We've identified three Audi A5 years to avoid based on commonly-reported issues. See which ones so you can make a smart used car shopping decision.
In the competitive landscape of German luxury vehicles, Audi consistently ranks among the top contenders. Audi is renowned for its exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and stunning automotive design. Among Audi’s impressive lineup, the A5 is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact luxury car that seamlessly combines style, performance, and refined craftsmanship.
With its sleek coupe silhouette, the Audi A5 boasts engaging driving dynamics, meticulously designed interiors, and a well-tuned suspension that delivers a thrilling yet comfortable ride.
However, for those considering a used Audi A5, it’s crucial to know the model’s long-term reliability. While luxury cars may not be synonymous with solid dependability, specific Audi A5 model years have proven more reliable than others.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the various Audi A5 years to avoid due to known reliability issues and the high number of consumer complaints.
Which Audi A5 Years to Avoid?
The Audi A5 isn’t known for its reliability, but some years are more problematic. Below are the A5 model years you should avoid in the used car market:
2011 Audi A5
If you don’t want to deal with serious engine issues, the 2011 model is one of the worst Audi A5 years to avoid. It’s one of the best-looking Audi models out there, but it has its fair share of problems, including:
Engine Troubles
The 2011 Audi A5 has been plagued by engine troubles that have left many owners frustrated and seeking solutions. One of the most common complaints revolves around excessive oil consumption, with some owners reporting the need to add as much as a quart of oil every 1,000 miles or less.
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This issue has led to concerns about potential engine damage due to oil starvation. In addition to the oil consumption problem, some 2011 A5 owners have experienced premature timing chain wear and failure, requiring costly repairs. Other reported issues include broken pistons, coolant leaks from the water pump, and general engine failures. These problems have led to many complaints and raised questions about the long-term reliability of the 2011 A5’s engine.
Takata Airbag Recall
The 2011 Audi A5 has been affected by the infamous Takata airbag recall, which involves faulty airbag inflators that could potentially rupture and cause injury to vehicle occupants. Many owners have filed complaints regarding the lack of available replacement parts, leading to prolonged wait times for repairs. Some have also reported airbags failing to deploy during accidents, raising concerns about the vehicle’s safety.
While Audi has acknowledged the issue and is working to address it, the shortage of replacement parts has caused frustration among owners who feel that their safety is being compromised. As a result, the 2011 A5’s airbag problems have become a significant point of contention for those affected by the recall.
Drivetrain Issues
The 2011 A5 has been grappling with a range of drivetrain problems. These issues have overshadowed the car’s perceived reliability, from the unsettling sensation of rubbing wheels during morning start-ups to the vehicle’s excessive appetite for oil.
Potential culprits behind these troubles include faulty wheel bearings and a manufacturing defect in the 2.0T engine, the latter of which has been the focus of legal action. More alarming, however, is the reported risk of timing chain failure, a catastrophic event that can lead to a complete engine breakdown.
As if these concerns weren’t enough, some owners have also encountered baffling transmission behavior, such as the sudden inability to engage reverse gear and erratic shifting patterns.
2012 Audi A5
The following year, the A5 wasn’t as problematic, but it inherited the major issues of the 2011 version.
Engine Problems
Like the previous year, the 2012 A5 experienced a range of engine-related issues that caused concern among owners. Excessive oil consumption, misfires, and sudden engine shut-offs were among the most frequently reported problems. These issues led to inconvenience and potential safety risks for drivers.
In addition to the engine troubles, the 2012 A5 was also subject to various electrical problems, such as malfunctioning rear turn signals. Another notable issue was the high rate of water pump failures, which resulted in coolant leaks and overheating.
The exact causes of these problems were not always clear, but they may have been attributed to design flaws, manufacturing defects, or quality control issues.
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We walk you through all A5 generations and find the most reliable Audi A5 year and which ones to avoid. Let’s take a look.
Airbag Issues
The 2012 Audi A5 faced similar airbag issues as its 2011 predecessor, with numerous owners expressing frustration over the Takata recall. Many complained about the lengthy wait times for replacement parts, often exceeding what they considered reasonable. This left drivers feeling unsupported and concerned for their safety.
In some cases, owners reported that the lack of available parts hindered their ability to trade in or sell their vehicles, leading to financial losses. The situation was further compounded by the perceived lack of communication and assistance from Audi, leaving owners feeling neglected and frustrated.
As with the 2011 model, the 2012 A5’s airbag problems led to many complaints and raised questions about the manufacturer’s handling of the recall process.
2018 Audi A5
While the 2018 A5 does not have too many serious mechanical woes, it has received many complaints from troubled owners.
Miscellaneous Problems
The 2018 Audi A5 has faced its fair share of miscellaneous issues that have left owners scratching their heads and reaching for their wallets. One particularly concerning problem involves the rapid wear of tires, with some owners reporting that their tires became unsafe at a mere 13,000 miles.
But the troubles don’t stop there. Some owners have reported incidents where the electronic trunk failed to stop closing, even when it encountered resistance, resulting in injuries. This serious safety concern highlights potential flaws in the trunk’s design or sensors.
Other issues include sun visors suddenly breaking off while driving, causing distractions and near-accidents, and backup cameras randomly switching to graphic mode, compromising the driver’s ability to navigate safely while reversing.
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Engine-Related Issues
Meanwhile, A5 owners have reported various issues, including oil leaks, unexpected gear shifts, and power loss. Some have experienced faulty thermostats and water pumps, which can lead to overheating and engine damage. Despite Audi issuing TSBs for the oil leaks, owners have not been offered warranty extensions or recalls. These diverse complaints suggest that the A5 may have underlying problems that must be addressed.
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