2008-2016 (B8/B8.5) · 2.0L EA888 turbocharged petrol (180-225 hp)
Premium German coupe with elegant styling and quattro all-wheel drive. Popular with professionals seeking a blend of performance and refinement. The 2.0 TFSI engine has significant reliability differences by year: pre-2012 models suffer from oil consumption due to piston ring design flaws and timing chain tensioner failures, while 2013+ B8.5 facelift models have revised engines with improved pistons and tensioners. Carbon buildup affects all direct-injection variants but B8.5 added port injection. Avoid 2008-2011 unless oil consumption fix is documented. DSG transmission (DL501) has known mechatronic issues; manual gearbox is more reliable.
Piston ring design flaw allows oil to burn in cylinders, up to 1L per 1,000 km · more· less
All 2008-2011 2.0 TFSI models (engine codes CAEB, CDNC, CNDC) have an inherent piston ring design flaw that causes excessive oil consumption. Oil leaks past the rings into cylinders where it burns. Owners report consuming up to 1 liter of oil per 1,000 km. The fix requires engine removal and replacement of pistons, rings, and connecting rods - approximately 12 hours of labor. Cost ranges from €3,500-6,000 depending on shop rates. Audi has contributed 80% to repair costs for some out-of-warranty owners on a case-by-case basis. This issue was resolved in mid-2012 production with revised piston tolerances - 2013+ model years are not affected. Always check service history for documentation of this repair on pre-2013 cars.
Timing chain tensioner failure€1,500 - €3,000
Tensioner weakens, causing cold start rattle and potential catastrophic engine damage · more· less
Early B8 models (2008-2012) have weaker timing chain tensioners prone to premature failure. The tensioner's release valve loses pressure overnight, causing a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold starts. This typically occurs between 60,000-100,000 km. If ignored, the chain can stretch and skip teeth, causing piston-to-valve contact and destroying the engine. VW specialists charge around €1,500 for tensioner replacement; if chain, guides, and sprockets also need replacing, costs reach €2,500-3,000. One owner reported £1,800 (€2,100) at 88,000 km; another faced a €15,000 engine replacement quote after tensioner failure destroyed the engine at 98,000 km. The tensioner was updated in late 2011. Check camshaft adaptation values with VCDS/OBDeleven - if beyond -5°, replacement is due. 2013+ models have the revised tensioner.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€500 - €1,500
Direct injection causes carbon deposits, reducing performance and causing misfires · more· less
All direct-injected 2.0 TFSI engines suffer from carbon buildup on intake valves because fuel sprays directly into the combustion chamber, bypassing valves. Without fuel washing over them, carbon accumulates from crankcase vapors. This worsens over time, inhibiting airflow and causing rough idle, misfires, and poor performance. The only effective solution is walnut blasting - removing the intake manifold and physically cleaning valves. Independent specialists charge €500-800, dealerships €1,000-1,500. Labor is 10+ hours due to manifold removal. Recommend cleaning every 60,000-100,000 km. B8.5 models from 2013 onward have dual injection (direct + port) which reduces but doesn't eliminate the issue. Using premium fuel and avoiding only short trips helps slow buildup.
Water pump / coolant pump failure€800 - €1,800
Electric water pump integrated with thermostat fails between 70,000-100,000 km · more· less
The 2.0 TFSI uses an electric water pump integrated with the thermostat housing. This unit commonly fails between 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. The integrated design means the part costs €400-500, and labor is significant (approximately 6 hours) due to accessibility issues. Total cost at independent shops: €800-1,200; dealerships charge €1,400-1,800. There was a class action settlement for VW/Audi 2.0 TSI/TFSI water pump issues. Failure can cause serious engine damage if the engine overheats, so address warning lights immediately. Check coolant level regularly and look for leaks.
Early DL501 units (2009-2013) have circuit board, clutch, and DMF failures · more· less
The DL501 (0B5) 7-speed S-Tronic transmission in quattro models has known reliability issues, especially early units from 2009-2013. Most common: mechatronic circuit board failure from heat, causing EPC/PRNDS warning lights, harsh shifts, limp mode, and eventually no reverse or gears above first. Clutch pack wear and dual mass flywheel (DMF) rattling at idle are also frequent. The G676 position sensor inside the mechatronic is a known weak point. Dealerships quote €15,000 for full transmission replacement but don't rebuild - they replace. Specialist mechatronic rebuilds cost €900-1,500; clutch pack rebuilds €550. Audi upgraded the mechatronic with better heat sink. Fluid changes are critical at 35,000, 75,000, and 115,000 miles (dealerships charge around €250). Manual gearbox versions are significantly more reliable.
PCV valve failure€250 - €600
PCV/air-oil separator fails between 60,000-100,000 km causing rough idle and oil loss · more· less
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, also called air-oil separator (AOS), commonly fails between 60,000-100,000 km. Symptoms: rough idle, engine dying at stoplights, oil consumption, check engine light with codes P052E, P053A, P0171, or P0174, suction when removing oil cap while engine runs, and sometimes oil or coolant loss. DIY parts cost around €220 (OEM Hengst recommended over aftermarket). Independent shops charge €250-400; some dealerships quote as high as €600. The job requires many steps but is manageable for DIY in a full day. Audi extended warranty coverage for PCV on some 2013-2016 models up to 10 years/120,000 km - check if your car qualifies. Replacing before failure is wise preventive maintenance around 80,000 km.
Turbocharger wastegate failure€1,000 - €3,000
Wastegate arm hole wears, causing boost loss and P0299 code · more· less
The hole in the wastegate arm where the actuator peg fits wears open over time, causing the wastegate to remain partially open at rest. This results in turbo underboost (P0299 code), loss of power, and check engine light. Early symptom: light comes on temporarily then disappears; eventually it stays on. The B8 turbo, wastegate, and manifold are integrated - dealerships want to replace the entire unit (€2,500-3,000). Independent shops can install a new turbo for €1,000-1,500 (OEM turbo costs around €700-850). Specialists can modify the wastegate with an improved stainless shaft and recalibrate the actuator for around €1,500 installed. Electronic wastegate actuators alone cost €95-530. Check for excessive wastegate play during inspection. This issue is more common on high-mileage or tuned cars.
Electric parking brake (EPB) failure€400 - €1,400
Electric motors in rear brake calipers fail from corrosion between 50,000-80,000 km · more· less
Sportback and Cabriolet variants (2010-2015) experience electric parking brake failures from 50,000-80,000 km. The electric motors within the brake calipers fail due to corrosion or moisture ingress. "Parking Brake Malfunction" warning appears on dash. Audi dealerships quote around €1,400 for motor replacement. Independent shops charge €400-580 (4 hours labor). Just the EPB motor costs around €200-220; full caliper around €400. The motor change itself takes 10 minutes - no need to replace the whole caliper if only the motor failed. Low battery voltage can trigger false EPB errors - the system is sensitive to voltage and requires a charger during any rear brake work. If both rear calipers/motors need replacing, costs double. Some owners have fixed it with just the EPB control module (€220).
Intake manifold flap failure€500 - €1,600
Runner flap actuator arms break from carbon buildup, causing P2004/P2015 codes · more· less
The intake manifold has variable runner flaps that optimize airflow. Carbon buildup on moving parts causes restriction and eventual mechanical failure of the actuator arms. Fault codes P2004 (flap stuck open) or P2015 (implausible sensor signal) appear. Symptoms: rough idle, reduced performance, poor fuel economy. A new manifold (part 06H133201AN) costs around €350, plus gaskets/o-rings €100, plus 2 hours labor (€120-240) = €500-600 total at independent shops. Dealerships charge €1,000-1,600. TSI-designated manifolds cost €175 while quattro versions cost 3x as much. Alternative: runner flap delete kits (€50-60) completely remove the flap system, improving airflow and eliminating future failures - popular with tuners. Prolonged driving with failed runner flaps can damage the engine. Recalibration with VCDS required after repair.
Window regulator failure€350 - €850
Cable snaps in freezing weather or mechanisms wear causing grinding noise · more· less
Window regulators are a known weak point on 2009-2011 A5/S5 models. The cable can snap, especially when lowering windows in freezing conditions. Symptoms: grinding/crunching noise, window stuck, clicking/chattering sounds. Heavy frost can trigger sudden failure. Audi replaced early 2009 regulators with improved parts. OEM regulator from Audi: €120-220; eBay alternatives around €60. Labor at independent shop: €120-230 (2 hours); dealerships charge €350-850 per window. Replacing both sides at dealerships can reach €1,100. The replacement regulator is a different improved design requiring a physical modification and software update (otherwise the switch works backward). Some owners got Audi Customer Services to contribute 70% of repair costs. Avoid operating windows in extreme cold. If one fails, consider replacing the other side preventively as it's likely to fail soon.
Control arm bushings wear€350 - €950
Front control arm bushings wear as early as 40,000-80,000 km causing clunks and vague steering · more· less
Factory B8/B8.5 front control arm bushings wear prematurely, especially on enthusiast-driven cars or those driven hard. Typical failure: 40,000-80,000 km (60,000-80,000 miles). Symptoms: clunking over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear. Replacing just bushings is labor-intensive and not recommended - replace the entire control arm assemblies. Parts for both sides: around €1,000 OEM; independent shops charge €350-500 total. Dealerships have quoted as high as €4,500 (excessive). Individual bushings cost €6-42 but labor to press them is similar to full arm replacement. Aftermarket upgrade kits (034 Motorsport Density Line) cost around €765 + €950 installation. OEM brands like Lemforder run €100 per arm. Budget 60-90 minutes labor per side. This is a wear item but should last longer than it does on these models.
Ignition coil failure€300 - €450
Coil packs fail from heat damage between 30,000-100,000 km causing misfires · more· less
Ignition coil failure is common on B8 models, with reports of failure anywhere from 30,000-100,000 km. Coils suffer heat damage and electrical overload. Symptoms: difficult starting, misfires, loss of power, poor acceleration, check engine light with cylinder-specific misfire codes. When one fails, replace all six as others are likely near failure - this prevents multiple trips to the shop. DIY kit (six OE coils + six NGK spark plugs): under €200. Professional installation: €300-450. Individual coil replacement is possible but not recommended. Many owners do preventive replacement at 75,000-100,000 km. In coil-on-plug systems, faulty spark plugs can damage coils, so inspect plugs when replacing coils. This is a known B8 issue and a reasonable preventive maintenance expense.
Diverter valve failure€100 - €250
Rubber diaphragm in DV tears over time causing boost loss and juddering · more· less
The early diverter valve (DV) uses a rubber diaphragm that perishes over time, causing boost pressure loss. Symptoms: occasional juddering under acceleration, car feels like naturally aspirated (no turbo boost), loss of power. The rubber diaphragm can tear, especially on pre-2012 models. Audi released an updated revision D piston-type DV (part 06H 145 710 D) which is much more durable - the metal piston design eliminates diaphragm failures. The updated valve costs around €100-150. Installation is easy from underneath - 10-15 minutes plus time to jack the car. Some owners also replace the N75 wastegate control valve (€50-100) as preventive maintenance. Aftermarket options like Forge 007 recirculation valves are popular with tuners. This is a relatively inexpensive fix but causes significant driveability issues when it fails.
MMI navigation system failures€200 - €800
GPS position errors, "Navigation data not enabled" error, module failures · more· less
The MMI 3G system has several common issues. GPS shows vehicle in wrong location (even in water) with position getting worse as you drive - caused by MMI's proximity to AC and faulty insulation. The 5F module approximates position using steering/velocity but errors accumulate when satellite signal is weak. "Navigation data are not enabled" error appears - often resolved with firmware update through Red Engineering Menu (REM). MMI works as a loop - when one module fails, the entire system fails. The radio module is the most common failure on 3G. The rear window washer pipe can leak onto the amplifier causing problems - check trunk for fluid. Module replacement costs €200-800 depending on which unit failed. Check all fuses first, especially in trunk above battery. Use fiber optic bypass loop to diagnose which module failed. Soft reset: hold volume knob + NAV/MAP for 10 seconds while engine runs.
Avoid pre-2013 unless oil consumption fix is documented
The B8 2.0 TFSI has major reliability differences by year. 2008-2011 models have critical piston ring and timing chain tensioner design flaws that make them risky purchases without documented repairs. The 2012 mid-year update started addressing these issues, but 2013+ B8.5 models are significantly more reliable with revised pistons, tensioners, and dual injection. DSG transmission adds another layer of risk. For a B8 A5, prioritize 2013-2016 manual transmission quattro models for best reliability.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Audi dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (not extended), timing chain inspection/replacement, carbon cleaning documentation.
Cold start
CRITICAL: Start engine completely cold (overnight). Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds. Any rattle = expensive repair needed.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Aluminum body can have corrosion at joints.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including varied speeds to get transmission and engine fully warm. Highway speeds essential to check boost pressure.
Specific for this vehicle
Check oil consumption on pre-2013 models
Ask for oil consumption history. If owner carries oil in trunk or tops up between services, walk away. Request service records showing oil consumption fix completed (piston/ring replacement). This is the most critical check for 2008-2012 cars.
Cold start timing chain rattle test
Engine must be completely cold (overnight). Listen for ANY rattling noise in first 30 seconds. Even brief rattle indicates tensioner wear. On test drive, check for camshaft adaptation values with VCDS/OBDeleven if possible (beyond -5° needs replacement).
DSG transmission behavior (if equipped)
Drive for minimum 20 minutes to get transmission hot. Feel for harsh shifts, hesitation, jerking, clunking, or refusal to shift. Check for EPC or PRNDS warning lights. Verify DSG service history at 35k, 75k, 115k miles. Manual gearbox much more reliable.
Inspect for oil leaks around valve cover
Check rocker cover/valve cover area for seepage. Common on 75,000-90,000 km cars. Also check for oil consumption - pre-2012 engines should not consume oil between services if piston rings were replaced.
Check boost pressure and turbo operation
During spirited acceleration, car should pull hard with no hesitation. Loss of power or EPC light indicates wastegate or diverter valve issues. Listen for turbo whistle/whoosh sounds - excessive noise can indicate turbo bearing wear.
Verify carbon cleaning service history
Ask when intake valves were last cleaned. Should be done every 60,000-100,000 km. If never done on high-mileage car, budget for immediate cleaning. Rough idle or misfires on cold start indicate overdue cleaning.
Test all electric parking brake functions
Engage and release EPB multiple times. Should operate smoothly without grinding or hesitation. "Parking Brake Malfunction" warning indicates expensive motor replacement needed. More common on Sportback/Cabriolet.
Check for water pump / coolant issues
Check coolant level and condition. Brown or milky appearance = serious problem. Ask about water pump replacement history. Verify no overheating issues. Check for coolant leaks under car after test drive.
Verify model year and production date
2008-2011 = high risk. Mid-2012 = transitional. 2013+ = significantly better. Check VIN and production date to confirm. B8.5 facelift from 2013 has revised engine, updated headlights, and improved trim.
Test all windows and window regulators
Operate all windows up and down multiple times. Listen for grinding, clicking, or chattering noises. Window should move smoothly without hesitation. Avoid testing in freezing weather as cable can snap. More common issue on 2009-2011 models.
Check suspension for worn bushings
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads. Listen for clunking from front suspension. Vague steering feel indicates worn control arm bushings. Common at 60,000-80,000 km. Inspect for uneven tire wear patterns.
MMI navigation and infotainment test
Test GPS navigation - check that position is accurate on map. Try radio, Bluetooth, all MMI functions. Screen should respond quickly without freezing. "Navigation data not enabled" error is common but usually fixable with firmware update.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Oil consumption / piston rings (2008-2012)No recall - case-by-case Audi support
Timing chain tensioner (2008-2011)Updated part available - no official recall
Water pump class action (EA888 engine)Settlement reached - check eligibility
Low-speed steering shudderTSB-48-09-11 available
Fuel system service bulletins (2011-2012)SB 383099/383100
Engine cooling service bulletinSB 383169
Contact Audi with VIN to verify all applicable TSBs and recalls completed. The A5 has 1,531 documented TSBs. Major issues like oil consumption and timing chains had no official recalls but Audi has contributed to repair costs for some owners on a case-by-case basis - worth contacting Audi Customer Service if affected.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years unlimited km)Expired on all B8 models
Audi extended warrantyAvailable for purchase - verify exclusions
PCV valve warranty extension (some 2013-2016 models)Up to 10 years / 120,000 km - check eligibility
DSG extended warranty (varies by market)5 years / 150,000 km in some regions - verify with Audi
All B8 generation A5s (2008-2016) are outside factory warranty. Audi offers extended warranty for used cars but read terms carefully - many common issues like oil leaks are explicitly excluded. For pre-2013 models, extended warranty is often not cost-effective due to exclusions. Some specific components have extended coverage - contact Audi with VIN to verify eligibility.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.