Avoid the 2010-2014 and 2018-2019 Audi A5 model years due to documented reliability issues including excessive oil consumption, timing chain failures, and airbag recalls The 2011 A5 is the most problematic year, with engines consuming up to one quart of oil every 1,000 miles and experiencing premature timing chain wear that can cause catastrophic engine damage For a reliable used A5, target the 2015-2016 models (first generation) or 2020 and newer (second generation)
Audi A5 Generations Overview
The Audi A5 has been produced in two generations since its 2008 US debut. Understanding each generation helps identify which years experienced the most significant problems.
First Generation (B8/B8.5): 2008-2017
The original A5 established the nameplate with its elegant coupe styling and quattro all-wheel drive. The platform received a facelift (B8.5) in 2012 with revised styling and updated engines However, early models suffered from widespread engine problems, particularly with the 2.0T four-cylinder, which experienced excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues
Second Generation (B9): 2018-Present
The complete redesign introduced a lighter platform, new infotainment system, and revised powertrains. While generally more reliable, early 2018-2019 models experienced electrical issues and build quality concerns typical of first-year production
Audi A5 Years to Avoid
2010-2012: The Most Problematic Years
The 2010-2012 A5 models represent the highest-risk purchases due to multiple serious issues:
ProblemImpactRepair CostExcessive oil consumptionEngine damage, oil starvation$5,000-$10,000+Timing chain tensioner failureCatastrophic engine damage$3,000-$7,000Takata airbag recallSafety hazardCovered by recallPiston ring defectsComplete engine replacement$10,000-$15,000
Oil Consumption Issues: The 2.0T engines in these years burned oil at alarming rates—up to one quart every 600-1,000 miles This excessive consumption resulted from defective piston rings that failed to properly seal the combustion chamber. When oil levels drop too low, engine internals suffer damage from inadequate lubrication, leading to premature wear and eventual failure.
During a pre-purchase inspection of a 2011 A5 for a client, the compression test revealed significant issues in two cylinders—the direct result of years of oil consumption damage. The repair estimate exceeded $12,000.
Timing Chain Problems: The EA888 engine's timing chain tensioner was prone to premature failure When the tensioner fails, the timing chain can skip or break, causing pistons to contact valves and resulting in catastrophic engine damage. This issue triggered class-action lawsuits and settlements against Audi
Takata Airbag Recall: The 2010-2012 models were affected by the widespread Takata airbag recall, where defective inflators could rupture during deployment and send metal fragments into the cabin NHTSA records show 50 complaints for the 2010 A5 alone, with 29 specifically related to airbag issues
2011: The Worst A5 Year
The 2011 A5 earned distinction as the single worst model year with the highest complaint volume and most severe issues:
Oil consumption rates: 1.08 quarts per 1,000 miles average
Drivetrain issues: Unsettling wheel rubbing during morning starts, suggesting bearing or transmission problems
Airbag malfunctions: Deployment failures in crash situations
The combination of these issues makes the 2011 A5 a vehicle to strictly avoid regardless of price or condition.
2013-2014: Post-Facelift Problems
While the B8.5 facelift addressed some issues, the 2013-2014 models still experienced problems:
Turbocharger issues: Shaft play and oil leakage requiring replacement
Continued timing chain concerns: Though improved, not fully resolved
Settlement-related repairs: Many vehicles required warranty work under the Rieger oil consumption settlement
These years are less problematic than 2010-2012 but still present elevated risk compared to later models.
2018-2019: Early Second Generation Issues
The redesigned 2018 A5 introduced new problems typical of first-year production:
IssueDescriptionElectronic trunk malfunctionsTrunk failing to stop when encountering resistance, causing injuriesRapid tire wearTires becoming unsafe at 13,000 milesInfotainment glitchesMMI screen freezing, phone connectivity issuesElectrical system failuresModule failures causing SOS alarms while driving
Sun visor breakage was reported while driving, creating safety hazards Additionally, some owners experienced backup camera malfunctions where cameras randomly switched to graphic mode
Despite Audi issuing Technical Service Bulletins for some issues, warranty extensions or recalls were not offered for many problems
Common Problems Across All A5 Years
Certain issues affect multiple A5 generations, regardless of model year:
Transmission Issues
The Multitronic CVT gearbox (2007-2016) has earned a reputation for problems including:
Transmission failure
Shuddering and jerking during acceleration
Overheating during demanding driving or towing
Complete loss of power or mobility
The S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission in later models performs poorly at low speeds, causing hesitation and rough shifts in city driving
Infotainment System Problems
The MMI system has been problematic across generations:
Screen going blank or freezing
System failing to power on or off
CD/DVD recognition failures
Phone Bluetooth connectivity issues
Audi software updates can resolve some infotainment issues, so verifying that service records show the latest updates is important when purchasing.
Coolant Pump Failures
Premature coolant pump failure has been reported across multiple model years, leading to engine overheating if not addressed promptly This isn't confined to specific years but warrants inspection during pre-purchase evaluation.
For more information on engine temperature-related concerns, see our guide on how to tell if your car is overheating.
Best Audi A5 Years to Buy
Based on reliability data and owner feedback, these model years offer the best balance of value and dependability:
Year RangeGenerationWhy Recommended2015-2016First (B8.5)Most issues resolved, proven reliability2020-2024Second (B9)Mature platform, latest tech, safest choice
2015 A5: This year achieved 84% 5-star ratings from owners, representing the most refined version of the first generation By this point, Audi had addressed the major oil consumption and timing chain issues through revised components.
2020+ A5: The second-generation platform matured by 2020, with most electrical bugs resolved and build quality improved These years benefit from the latest safety features and infotainment technology.
Owner insight: Forum members consistently report that post-2014 models—particularly with the 4-cylinder engine—have shown dramatically improved reliability Many recommend the S5 with its more robust V6 for buyers who can afford the higher purchase and maintenance costs.
What to Inspect Before Buying
When shopping for a used A5, these checks help identify potential problems:
Oil Consumption Test: If possible, check the oil level before and after a test drive. Any significant drop indicates consumption issues.
Timing Chain Inspection: Listen for rattling during cold starts, which may indicate tensioner wear. Have a mechanic perform a visual inspection if the vehicle has over 60,000 miles.
Wheel Bearing Test: On 2011+ models, test for rumble or grinding sounds that indicate bearing wear
Turbo Check: For 2012+ models, check for shaft play and oil leakage around the turbocharger
Recall Verification: Use the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed, particularly Takata airbag recalls and oil consumption settlements
Service Records: Request complete service history showing regular oil changes and any warranty work performed.
For other maintenance considerations, our guide on how many quarts of oil a car takes provides useful context for A5 owners.
Key Takeaways
Avoid the 2010-2014 and 2018-2019 Audi A5 model years due to documented engine, electrical, and safety issues
The 2011 A5 is the most problematic year with excessive oil consumption (1+ quart per 1,000 miles) and timing chain failures
Target the 2015-2016 or 2020+ model years for the best reliability
Always verify Takata airbag recall completion and oil consumption settlement coverage via VIN before purchasing
Have an independent Audi specialist inspect any used A5 before purchase, focusing on oil consumption, timing chain condition, and transmission operation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Audi A5 a reliable car?
The A5's reliability depends heavily on the model year Early years (2010-2014) and initial second-generation models (2018-2019) have documented problems. However, the 2015-2016 and 2020+ model years demonstrate good reliability when properly maintained. Overall, the A5 is average for the luxury segment—not as dependable as Lexus equivalents but comparable to BMW and Mercedes competitors.
What is the most common Audi A5 problem?
Excessive oil consumption is the most widespread issue, particularly in 2010-2014 models with the 2.0T engine These engines can consume up to one quart per 1,000 miles due to defective piston rings. Transmission problems—especially with the Multitronic CVT—are the second most common complaint
Are Audi A5s expensive to maintain?
Yes, the A5 carries higher maintenance costs than non-luxury vehicles. Annual maintenance averages $739-$1,200 depending on age and mileage Major repairs—timing chain replacement ($3,000-$7,000), transmission work ($4,000-$8,000), or engine replacement ($10,000-$15,000)—can significantly increase ownership costs on problematic years
Should I buy an Audi A5 with over 100,000 miles?
High-mileage A5 purchases carry significant risk, especially for 2010-2014 models If considering a high-mileage A5, choose a 2015+ model year, verify complete service records, and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by an Audi specialist. Budget for potential timing chain, water pump, and other maintenance items that commonly need attention around this mileage.
Is the S5 more reliable than the A5?
The S5 with its V6 engine (3.0T) is generally considered more reliable than the 4-cylinder A5 from the same period The V6 doesn't suffer from the same oil consumption issues that plague the 2.0T. However, the S5 has higher purchase prices, fuel costs, and maintenance expenses.
References
Autvex. (2025). Audi A5 Years to Avoid: Complete 2025 Guide.
https://autvex.com/audi-a5-years-to-avoid/
Simple Mechanic Advice. (2025). Audi A5 Years To Avoid: Which Model Years Are Least Reliable . YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93L9_azofQ0
CoPilot. (2024). The Audi A5 Years To Avoid.
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/audi-a5-years-to-avoid/
CoPilot. (2024). The Audi A5 Sportback Years To Avoid.
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/audi-a5-sportback-years-to-avoid/
Years to Avoid Now. (2025). Audi A5 Years to Avoid: Your Essential Buyer's Guide.
https://yearstoavoidnow.com/audi-a5-years-to-avoid/
Auto Gefühl. (2025). Audi A5 Years to Avoid – Least Reliable Model Years & Known Problems . YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QElw18TnDw4
What Car?. (2024). Used Audi A5 (2016–2024): Reliability & Common Problems.
https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a5/coupe/used-review/n897/reliability
Motor and Wheels. (2023). Audi A5 Problems: 6 Most-Known Issues (Explained).
https://motorandwheels.com/audi-a5-problems-known-issues/