Quick Facts — Audi A5

Est. On UK Roads
150,000+
Years Made
2007–present
Common Engines
1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, S5, RS5, 2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI

6 Most Common Audi A5 Problems

These are the faults most frequently seen on the Audi A5 by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.

1
Timing Chain (2.0 TFSI EA888 Gen 1/2)
High Priority
The 8T A5 with the 2.0 TFSI carries the EA888 timing chain tensioner issue. A cold-start rattle on any early A5 2.0 TFSI needs immediate investigation.
💷 Typical repair cost: £800–£2,500
2
DPF and EGR (2.0 TDI)
High Priority
Diesel A5 models develop DPF blockages and EGR carbon buildup, especially on short journeys. Common fault on all high-mileage TDI examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £200–£1,500
3
Convertible Roof Mechanism (Cabriolet)
Watch
The A5 cabriolet's folding fabric roof can develop motor, latch and hydraulic faults causing it to fail mid-cycle or refuse to open/close.
💷 Typical repair cost: £400–£1,500
4
Carbon Buildup (TFSI)
Watch
Direct injection carbon deposits on intake valves affect all TFSI engines. Walnut blasting every 40,000–60,000 miles is recommended.
💷 Typical repair cost: £300–£600
5
S-Tronic DSG Judder
Watch
The S-Tronic DSG gearbox on petrol A5 models can develop judder and hesitation at low speeds — particularly on the dry-clutch 7-speed variant.
💷 Typical repair cost: £0–£2,000
6
Door Seal Water Ingress (Cabriolet)
Low Priority
Aged or perished door seals on the cabriolet allow water into the cabin. Wet carpets and electrical issues are the result.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£400

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Audi A5 — MOT Tips

TFSI timing chain on early 8T models is priority check. DPF warning light is an automatic fail. Convertible roof must operate and seal correctly. Check all DSG warning lights.

Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a Find Your Problem Now → to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.

Audi A5 Tyres

Most Audi A5 models run 225/50 R17 or 245/40 R18 or 255/35 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common problem with the Audi A5?

The most frequently reported issue on the Audi A5 is Timing Chain (2.0 TFSI EA888 Gen 1/2). The 8T A5 with the 2.0 TFSI carries the EA888 timing chain tensioner issue. A cold-start rattle on any early A5 2.0 TFSI needs immediate investigation.

How many Audi A5s are on UK roads?

There are an estimated 150,000+ Audi A5s currently on UK roads.

What tyres does the Audi A5 use?

Most Audi A5 models run 225/50 R17 or 245/40 R18 or 255/35 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

Will a warning light fail my Audi A5's MOT?

TFSI timing chain on early 8T models is priority check. DPF warning light is an automatic fail. Convertible roof must operate and seal correctly. Check all DSG warning lights.

Similar Issues on Other Models

Audi A4 — shares the same carbon buildup problem Volkswagen Passat — another carbon buildup case worth knowing about

Summary

The A5 is one of the most attractive cars at any price and strong used value. Timing chain health on early 2.0 TFSI models and DPF condition on diesels are the critical checks. Cabriolet buyers should inspect the roof mechanism thoroughly.

If your Audi A5 has a warning light on or a symptom you can't identify, a Find Your Problem Now → gives you likely fault causes, UK repair cost estimates and MOT risk — instantly.

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Other Audi Models

Audi A1 → Audi A3 → Audi A4 → Audi A6 →