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Audi S5
Station wagon · Gas · 19 versions · owner report
Ranked #17 of 17 luxury compact cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.
13 problems reported (5 very frequent, 7 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPersistent check engine lights with numerous fault codes
Leading to repeated dealership visits and extended downtime.
- Very frequentSevere software/MMI system glitches, crashes, and connectivity problems
- Very frequentWater pump failure, often leading to coolant migration
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentPCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure
- Very frequentGeneral concerns over long-term reliability and high repair costs out of warranty
- RecurrentLow-profile tire damage and blowouts, noted as a common issue
- RecurrentControversial interior design with excessive piano black trim
Capacitive touch controls, and a gimmicky passenger screen.
- RecurrentPiston skirt failures
With Audi issuing an extended warranty (8 years/80,000 miles) for affected vehicles.
- RecurrentRocker arm failures, particularly in early production models
- RecurrentWater pump failure
- RecurrentMMI infotainment system bugs, crashes, and connectivity issues (particularly noted in B9/B9.5)
- RecurrentCarbon buildup requiring cleaning
0T and 3.0T engines).
- IsolatedWheel bearing failures
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. For the B9/B9.5 generation (2018-2024), the Sportback body style is frequently mentioned for its superior practicality. For the B8.5 generation (2013-2016), the 2016 model year with the supercharged V6 is noted as having many early issues resolved. There is a strong consensus among enthusiasts to avoid the new B10 generation in favor of the outgoing B9.5.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW M340i, BMW M440i, Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Genesis G70 and Kia Stinger.
Is the S5 right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. The B8.5 (supercharged V6) and B9/B9.5 (turbocharged V6) generations receive generally positive feedback from long-term owners, who praise the driving experience, comfort, and timeless styling. However, these generations are associated with several known, potentially expensive mechanical issues. The sentiment for the all-new B10 generation (2025+) is overwhelmingly negative, characterized by widespread reports of severe and persistent reliability problems, software glitches, and controversial design changes. Enthusiast feedback indicates a strong preference for the previous B9/B9.5 generation over the new model.
Positioning vs competitors
The S5 (B9/B9.5) is frequently compared directly to the BMW M340i. The BMW is consistently noted as the sharper, more precise, and more fuel-efficient performer with a superior engine (B58), though some find its steering feel numb. The S5 is praised for its superior interior material quality, fit-and-finish, and the practicality of its Sportback body style. It is often positioned as a more comfortable, tech-focused, and stylish alternative to the clinical BMW, but one that trails in outright driving engagement and efficiency. The Mercedes C43 is noted for its theater but criticized for its four-cylinder engine. The Genesis G70 and Kia Stinger are seen as high-value alternatives with strong performance but less brand cachet.
Recommended configurations
Sportback body style for practicality. All-wheel drive (quattro) is standard. For B9/B9.5 models, an extended warranty or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) purchase is strongly recommended due to known engine issues. For B10 models, no positive configuration recommendations are present in the data; the advice is uniformly to avoid purchase. Aftermarket modifications mentioned by owners include transmission mount inserts (e.g., 034 Motorsport) to improve shift feel, aftermarket shift paddles, and all-weather floor mats.
General recommendations
For B8.5 and B9/B9.5 generations: Purchase with a comprehensive extended warranty or as a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection is advised, with specific attention to the water pump, PCV valve, and for B9 3.0T engines, checking for piston skirt or rocker arm service history. Budget for higher-than-average maintenance costs. These cars are recommended for buyers who prioritize a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality but are prepared for potential repairs. For the B10 generation (2025+): Owners and industry observers strongly advise against purchase due to widespread, unresolved reliability and software issues. Potential buyers are directed to consider the previous generation (B9.5) or competitors.
Remarks
The owner experience is defined by a significant generational rift. The B10 represents a dramatic shift that has alienated a portion of the enthusiast community due to its design, perceived drop in interior material quality, and, most critically, catastrophic early reliability. The mention of dealerships having "a bunch of these cars in the back that [they] can't fix" underscores the severity and systemic nature of the B10's problems. In contrast, the B9/B9.5 and B8.5 are viewed as desirable, well-rounded vehicles, but their ownership proposition is heavily contingent on warranty coverage due to a well-documented list of expensive failure points for the 3.0T V6 engine. The data suggests a model in transition, where the current new offering is viewed as fundamentally flawed by the owning community.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
S5 (B10)2024–202614 complaints · 2 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): forward collision avoidance (7) · lane departure (5) · electrical system (5)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the B10 S5 is sharply divided.
19 problems reported (4 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDead or defective battery causing total power loss and multiple warning lights
- Very frequentCascading dashboard warning lights and error messages across safety
Brake, steering, and parking systems.
- Very frequentCheck engine light recurring repeatedly, sometimes returning within 30 feet of being cleared
+ 16 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentSoftware and MMI faults including black screens, unresponsive systems, and failed updates
- RecurrentVehicle failing to start, unlock, or lock, sometimes requiring multiple attempts
- RecurrentDriver assistance and pre-sense systems falsely activating
Including sudden braking and seatbelt tightening with no obstacle present.
- RecurrentDriver assistance and safety features shutting down in rain or poor conditions
- RecurrentInterior rattles and cheap-feeling plastics
- RecurrentReduced virtual cockpit customization and lack of full-screen maps
- IsolatedTransmission overheating leading to limp mode and refusal to engage
- IsolatedValvetronic exhaust flap rattle and valves failing to open in Dynamic mode
- IsolatedAir conditioning failure
- IsolatedRearview camera failure
- IsolatedTrunk or boot hatch failing to open or opening at half height
- IsolatedCarPlay dropping connection, temporarily resolved via privacy settings
- IsolatedClock resetting by an hour
- IsolatedParking sensors over-sensitive or failing to detect obstacles
- IsolatedAlarm sounding randomly on its own
- IsolatedSteering vibration requiring factory diagnostic equipment to investigate
Is a 2024–2026 S5 right for you?
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S5 (F5)2016–2024120 complaints · 17 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): unknown or other (40) · electrical system (32) · engine (25)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2016-2024 F5 S5 generally adore the car, calling it one of the most striking cars on the road and praising its driving dynamics, interior quality, and the strong turbocharged 3.0 V6 paired with the ZF 8-speed transmission.
20 problems reported (2 very frequent, 13 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentRocker arm defect on 2017-2018 and early 2019 builds leading to potential catastrophic engine failure
- Very frequentMMI software bugs, random reboots, and connectivity failures including Bluetooth and CarPlay
- RecurrentWater pump failure
+ 17 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentThermostat housing cracking
- RecurrentPCV valve failure
- RecurrentMotor mount leaks
- RecurrentAudi Connect instability
- RecurrentNavigation failing to load
- RecurrentPre-sense false activations and unexpected braking
- RecurrentCoolant level warning despite normal levels
- RecurrentLow-profile tire damage and frequent flats on 20-inch wheels
- RecurrentTPMS false warnings
- RecurrentOil consumption requiring top-offs between changes
- RecurrentSuspension control arm wear
- RecurrentCarbon buildup requiring cleaning
- IsolatedSOS/telematics module failure requiring rear seat removal
- IsolatedBrake rumble and warped rotors
- IsolatedSunroof shade sagging with high dealer repair quote
- IsolatedAftermarket puddle lights failing
- IsolatedAlternator and battery issues around the 7-year mark
Is a 2016–2024 S5 right for you?
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S5 (8T)2007–2016110 complaints · 6 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (40) · air bags (35) · engine (14)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 8T S5 are split cleanly along engine lines.
15 problems reported (1 very frequent, 8 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCarbon buildup on direct-injected engines requiring periodic cleaning
- RecurrentTiming chain and tensioner wear requiring engine-out service
- RecurrentWater pump and thermostat failure
+ 12 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPCV valve failure, sometimes leaking coolant into oil
- RecurrentControl arm and suspension bushing wear
- RecurrentOil leaks from valve covers and other seals
- RecurrentExcessive oil consumption
- RecurrentMotor mount failure
- RecurrentDual-clutch mechatronics failure on early cars
- IsolatedClutch replacement
- IsolatedTransmission replacement
- IsolatedWheel bearing failure
- IsolatedCoolant level sensor fault
- IsolatedHeadlight and trim deterioration
- IsolatedElectrical faults traced to battery or alternator
Is a 2007–2016 S5 right for you?
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Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2018. Years to avoid: 2020, 2018, 2010Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi S5 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2025 | 11 | 2 | lane departure |
| 2024 | 2 | 0 | air bags |
| 2022 | 1 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 2 | 5 | suspension |
| 2020 | 50 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 12 | 4 | engine |
| 2018 | 52 | 2 | engine |
| 2016 | 1 | 0 | steering |
| 2015 | 2 | 0 | engine |
| 2014 | 6 | 0 | power train |
| 2013 | 19 | 0 | power train |
| 2012 | 10 | 1 | air bags |
| 2011 | 21 | 3 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices25 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 25V638000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 GTI, Golf R, Audi A5, A6 Sportback E-Tron, S5, S6 Sportback E-Tron, 2026 Q4 Sportback E-Tron, and Q4 E-Tron vehicles. The torsion bar in one or both front seat belt retractors may have been damaged during production.
2025 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 25V899000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2025 SQ6 E-Tron, SQ6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 Sportback E-Tron, A6, A5, A6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 E-Tron, S5, and S6 Sportback E-Tron vehicles. The automatic locking retractor may fail to engage when a child seat is installed using the seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 21V825000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8 and S8, 2022 Audi A5 Sportback, A4 Sedan, E-Tron GT, Q3, Q5, RS6 Avant, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RSQ8, SQ7, SQ8, and S3 Sedan vehicles. A software error may prevent the rear-view image from initially displaying when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · equipment:electrical:infotainment:video (touch)screen/monitor/unitcampaign 22V806000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2021 · exterior lighting:tail lightscampaign 20V737000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2020-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The wiring harness for the rear lights could be missing the anti-abrasion protection in the area of the spare wheel well.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2020 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2020 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2020 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2020 · exterior lighting:tail lightscampaign 20V737000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2020-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The wiring harness for the rear lights could be missing the anti-abrasion protection in the area of the spare wheel well.
2019 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2019 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
10 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: B10
3.0 TFSI V6 Mild Hybrid plus quattro ultra
3.0L 6-cylinder · 367 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026