Generations
B8 — First Generation
2007–2021
1.4 TFSI, 1.7 TDI, 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TDI BiTurbo, 2.0 TFSI
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Audi A5 problems ranked by severity. We track 12 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Timing chain tensioner failure (B8)
The EA888 Gen1 and Gen2 engines use hydraulic timing chain tensioners that fail catastrophically between 50k-120k miles. The tensioner loses oil pressure, allowing the timing chain to jump teeth or snap completely. This destroys pistons, valves, and often requires complete engine replacement. The issue is most severe on 2008-2013 models and affects both 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI variants. Later EA888 Gen3 engines (2013 onwards) have revised tensioners but are not immune.
What happens if ignoredComplete timing chain failure destroys the interference engine beyond economical repair. Bent valves, damaged pistons, and cylinder head damage typically result in total engine replacement costing £4000-8000. The car is not safe to drive if timing chain rattle is present.
Independent garage
£800–£1,800
Specialist
£1,200–£2,500
Main dealer
£2,000–£4,000
Parts only
£300–£800
Dangerous
Rear spring fracture (B8)
MOT data shows A5 models failing spring inspections at over 26972.7x the national fleet average, indicating a serious structural defect. Spring fractures can cause complete loss of suspension control, wheel alignment problems, and potential tyre damage. The issue affects multiple engine variants and appears across all mileage bands, suggesting a fundamental design or material problem rather than normal wear. A fractured spring is a dangerous defect that makes the vehicle unsafe to drive.
What happens if ignoredA fractured rear spring can cause complete loss of suspension control, making the vehicle dangerous to drive. The broken spring can damage the tyre, wheel arch, or other suspension components. The car should not be driven until the spring is replaced.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£450
Main dealer
£350–£600
Parts only
£80–£200
Major
Excessive oil consumption (2008-2012)
EA888 Gen1 and Gen2 engines suffer from defective piston rings that allow excessive oil consumption, typically exceeding 1 litre per 1000 miles. The oil control rings become clogged with carbon deposits, failing to properly seal against the cylinder walls. This causes blue smoke on startup and acceleration, frequent low oil warnings, and potential engine seizure if oil levels drop critically. The issue is worst on 2008-2012 models and affects both 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI variants.
What happens if ignoredContinued driving with excessive oil consumption risks complete engine seizure if oil levels drop too low. Engine rebuild or replacement typically costs £3000-6000. The car requires constant monitoring of oil levels and frequent top-ups until repaired.
Independent garage
£2,500–£4,000
Specialist
£3,000–£5,000
Main dealer
£4,000–£8,000
Parts only
£500–£2,000
Major
Timing chain stretch and rattle (B8 V6 TDI)
The 3.0 V6 TDI engine has its timing chain assembly located at the rear of the engine block, making access extremely difficult and expensive. The timing chain stretches over time, causing rattling noises and eventually jumping teeth which destroys the engine. This is a known weak point on high-mileage V6 TDI engines and requires complete engine removal for repair. The repair cost often exceeds the vehicle's value, making this a critical inspection point for any high-mileage V6 TDI A5.
What happens if ignoredComplete timing chain failure destroys the interference engine requiring full engine rebuild or replacement costing £6000-12000. The engine-out labour requirement makes this one of the most expensive repairs possible on the A5. The car should not be driven if timing chain noise is present.
Independent garage
£4,000–£8,000
Specialist
£6,000–£12,000
Main dealer
£8,000–£15,000
Parts only
£1,500–£4,000
8 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Audi A5 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Fluid leak
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 430x the fleet average
Sample: 2,277 tests
Coil springs broken
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 71x the fleet average
Sample: 14,298 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 484 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 20,543 tests
Window tint too dark
Wipers & Windscreen · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 15,082 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 1,462 tests
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Related
Audi A5 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Audi A5?
The Audi A5 has 12 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Timing chain tensioner failure (B8), Rear spring fracture (B8).
Is the Audi A5 reliable?
The Audi A5 has 2 dangerous and 9 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Audi A5 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing chain tensioner failure (B8)) costs £800–£1,800 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.