(BUYING GUIDE) Used Audi A5, S5, RS5 B8 Reliability: Our Detailed Review

Audi A5/S5/RS5 B8 Reliability Guide (U.S. Market and Global Overview)

The Audi A5, S5, and RS5 B8 generation (produced from 2008 to 2016) represents one of Audi’s most elegant and performance-balanced lineups. Built on the MLB platform, it combines timeless coupe styling with powerful engine options and advanced technology.

However, while praised for design and handling, this generation carries several reliability concerns that potential owners and enthusiasts should be aware of.

 

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Overview: What to Expect from the A5, S5, and RS5 B8

The B8 generation introduced direct-injection turbocharged engines, new chassis tuning, and sophisticated interiors. Across all variants—A5, S5, and RS5—the overall driving experience remains refined and sporty.

However, reliability varies significantly depending on the engine choice. The A5’s 2.0 TFSI has known weak spots, the S5’s 3.0 TFSI is generally solid with minor cooling and DSG issues, and the RS5’s high-revving V8 is mechanically robust but expensive to maintain.

In most ownership reports, mechanical durability is decent, but peripheral systems—cooling, oil consumption, timing, and electronics—are common sources of trouble.

 

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Common Problems Across the B8 Audi A5 Range

• Oil consumption: Especially prevalent on the 2.0 TFSI, where piston ring wear leads to excessive oil usage.

• Water pump and thermostat leaks: Plastic components in the cooling system can crack or fail, causing coolant loss.

• Timing chain tensioner issues: On early models, tensioners can lose pressure, risking engine damage if ignored.

• Carbon build-up: All direct-injection engines (especially 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI) suffer from carbon deposits on intake valves, causing misfires and loss of power.

• Electronic and MMI faults: Infotainment freeze-ups, window regulator failures, or door actuator faults.

• DSG and S-Tronic problems: The mechatronic unit or clutch pack may fail prematurely on early dual-clutch transmissions.

 

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Engine-by-Engine Reliability Breakdown

2.0 TFSI (A5)

The most common engine in the A5 B8, the 2.0 TFSI offers a smooth balance of power and efficiency—but comes with a few critical issues.
Known problems:

• High oil consumption due to piston ring design flaws.

• Timing chain tensioner failures (especially pre-2013).

• PCV valve and water pump failures.

• Carbon build-up on intake valves requiring periodic cleaning (every ~60–80,000 km).
  Ownership advice:
  Choose post-2013 engines (revised design), check service records for timing chain replacement, and monitor oil usage closely. Regular oil changes (every 5,000 miles) help reduce long-term wear.

 

3.0 TFSI Supercharged V6 (S5 B8)

Replacing the older 4.2 V8 from the pre-facelift S5, this engine is far more reliable overall, though not without its quirks.
Known problems:

• Water pump and thermostat leaks (plastic housings).

• PCV valve and crankcase ventilation issues.

• Carbon build-up (moderate, but less severe than the 2.0 T).

• DSG/S-Tronic mechatronic failures or clutch wear if poorly maintained.
  Ownership advice:
  Inspect for coolant leaks, confirm DSG service intervals (every 40,000 miles), and avoid tuned cars without supporting maintenance. This engine can exceed 200,000 km with proper care.

 

4.2 V8 Naturally Aspirated (RS5 B8 and early S5)

A high-revving, motorsport-inspired masterpiece—one of Audi’s last naturally aspirated V8s. Mechanically robust but costly to maintain.
Known problems:

• Carbon build-up on intake valves (due to direct injection).

• High maintenance cost (spark plugs, carbon cleaning, oil changes, timing service).

• Potential for oil leaks from valve covers and timing covers.
  Ownership advice:
  These engines are built to last but require meticulous care. Check that carbon cleaning has been done at least once. Always use the correct 5W-40 VW-approved oil and inspect for oil leaks around the rear timing area.

 

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Other Mechanical and Electrical Weak Points

• Cooling system: Weak plastic thermostat housings and water pumps prone to cracking.

• Suspension: Control arm bushings and tie-rod ends wear early, especially on heavier S/RS models.

• Brakes: S5 and RS5 brakes are powerful but expensive to replace; avoid aftermarket pads that cause rotor wear.

• Electronics: Battery drain and MMI malfunctions can result from software bugs or failing modules.

 

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What to Check Before Buying a Used B8 A5, S5, or RS5

1. Verify a complete service history with oil changes every 5,000 miles.

2. Inspect coolant system for leaks or low levels.

3. Check for rattles at cold start (possible timing tensioner issue).

4. Test the MMI and all windows, locks, and electronics.

5. Look for oil residue around valve covers, front crank seals, or intercooler piping.

6. Ask if carbon cleaning has ever been done (essential for 2.0 TFSI and 4.2 V8).

7. On DSG/S-Tronic models, confirm regular fluid and filter service.

 

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Upgrade and Customize Your Audi A5, S5, or RS5 B8

Make your B8 Audi truly stand out with our collection of premium accessories designed for a perfect fit. Upgrade your style with black Audi logos, carbon mirror covers, front lips, trunk spoilers, gloss black grilles, and steering wheel paddle shifters.

 

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All our products include free shipping and a 1-year warranty for complete peace of mind. Combine German engineering with your own touch of style—because your A5, S5, or RS5 deserves the best.

 

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Verdict: Is the B8 Audi A5/S5/RS5 Reliable?

The B8 generation offers an excellent blend of refinement, design, and driving pleasure—but reliability depends heavily on engine type and maintenance history.

• The 2.0 TFSI is the riskiest due to oil consumption and timing issues.

• The 3.0 TFSI is the best balance of reliability and performance.

• The 4.2 V8 is mechanically strong but expensive to own.

With proper servicing and attentive ownership, a well-maintained B8 A5 or S5 can deliver many years of enjoyable motoring. Buyers seeking peace of mind should prioritize post-2013 facelift models with documented maintenance.