Common Problems with the Audi A5

  • Audi
  • Common problems

FixMyCar explores common problems with the Audi A5 and average repair costs.

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Ellie Dyer-Brown

Monday March 31 2025

4 min read

The Audi A5 has undergone many changes since its debut in 2007, culminating in the latest generation – a sportier version of the A4, blending the comfort of saloon cars with the style of top coupes. 

This guide explores any known problems with the A5 that owners and potential buyers should be aware of.  


What's wrong with the Audi A5?

Drivers are searching online for information about the following topics. 

Audi A5 convertible roof problems 

a5 convertible
iStock.com/teddyleung

Convertible roofs are notorious for developing problems, especially if they aren’t well maintained. They can malfunction due to broken wiring, a bad switch or relay, sensor faults, hydraulic leaks, and external leaks. 

Audi A5 3.0 TDI quattro problems 

The most common issues with the 3.0 TDI engine are: 

  • Blocked EGR valve - £427.13 on average to repair. 

  • Window regulator failure – around £100-£250. 

  • Oil leak - £68.46 on average to diagnose. 


Audi A5 recent recalls

Recall numberDateReason
R/2022/03614.02.22The toe and/or camber values on the rear axle may in certain circumstances incorrectly be changed without this being noticed.
R/2021/23625.06.21 One or more nuts which do not meet the specifications may have been fitted on the rear axle suspension links.
R/2021/20407.06.21 Vehicles may have been fitted with a hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
R/2020/30226.10.20 The seat frame may not have been bolted correctly to the seat rail on the driver and/or front passenger side.
R/2020/26502.10.20 It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
R/2020/13830.06.20 It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
R/2019/17503.06.19 Hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
R/2019/14909.05.19 An error in the casting process may affect the rigidity of the shock absorber fork.

Audi A5 2007-2017 problems

Drivers have encountered the following problems with the Mk1 Audi A5. 

audi a5 11
iStock.com/Sue Thatcher

1. Electrical glitches 

Early A5s are notorious for developing electrical issues that can affect the central locking, parking sensors, entertainment system, and built-in phone system. 

What repair is needed for electrical glitches, and how much does it cost for an AUDI A5? 

The first step is to book an electrical fault diagnosis, which costs £61.50 on average for an A5, to pinpoint the cause. The mechanic who carried out the diagnostic will inform you about repair options and provide a price estimate for the work.  

2. Engine warning light 

There have been some isolated reports of the engine warning light staying on. It can be triggered by various engine issues, from an ignition system fault to a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. 

What repair is needed for an engine warning light, and how much does it cost for an AUDI A5? 

You’ll need to book a diagnostic test to find out what has triggered the light. On average, this costs £57.14 for an A5. 


Audi A5 2017-2024 problems

Drivers have encountered the following problems with the Mk2 Audi A5. 

audi a5 22
iStock.com/Sue Thatcher

1. Faulty infotainment system 

Electrical glitches continue to be a problem in the second-gen A5, primarily affecting the infotainment system. Owners have reported flickering screens and connectivity issues. 

What repair is needed for a faulty infotainment system, and how much does it cost for an AUDI A5? 

First, restart the system and check the software is up to date. If issues persist, the best thing to do is take it to an Audi specialist to find out whether it can be fixed. 

2. Noisy interior 

Some drivers have experienced rattling and buzzing noises from the interior. 

What repair is needed for a noisy interior, and how much does it cost for an AUDI A5? 

Though this is a relatively mild complaint, it isn’t one that can be remedied because it’s due to the car's design. 


Audi A5 2024- problems

It's too soon to say whether there are any common problems with the Mk3 Audi A5. We will update this section as soon as information becomes available. 


Is the Audi A5 reliable?

The A5 is a sporty and good-looking car, but reliability has never been its greatest strength. 

In What Car?’s 2024 Reliability Survey, the coupe version came seventh out of 15 cars in the sports car category with a score of 94.9%. Audi as a brand didn’t perform particularly well, coming 26th out of 31 manufacturers. 


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Written by Ellie

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Ellie is FixMyCar's Content Writer. She has over three years of experience writing about cars and regularly collaborates with automotive experts to provide trustworthy advice for drivers that is easy understand. Her work has been featured in Yahoo! Finance, iNews, The Daily Express and The Sun. She has a BA in English literature and an MA in creative writing from Durham University. Outside of work, Ellie follows F1 and eagerly awaits Ferrari's next era of dominance in the sport. She drives a Suzuki Swift.

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