Used Audi A5

What to know before buying: Audi A5

From 3 forum threads and 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The A5 Sportback combines sporting character with four-door family practicality; the reviewed 204 hp 2.0 TFSI uses an S tronic gearbox.[1]one source
• An owner of a 2011 2.0 petrol automatic praises its quiet, smooth ride, acceleration and long-distance stability, rating it 9/10.[2]one source
• The owner of a 2012 3.0 diesel Sportback highlights comfortable sports seats, a roomy cabin, a large boot and stable handling.[3]one source
• An owner of a 2011 3.0 diesel calls it ideal on the motorway but stiff and unpleasant over urban potholes.[2]one source

Typical faults

• Early 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI engines are associated with excessive oil use, linked to piston-ring design allowing oil into the cylinders.[5][6]

  1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI

• Reported electrical faults include a blank or frozen MMI screen, plus malfunctions of the central locking, parking sensors and built-in phone.[4][6]
• Early 2007–2016 A5s have more reports of Multitronic failure, power loss, immobility, shuddering, jerking and unusual noises.[6]one source

  2007–2016

• A5 owners have reported a stiff clutch pedal, clutch slip or complete failure; another source also identifies the clutch as a potential trouble spot.[4][6]
• Premature coolant-pump and water-pump failures have been reported and may cause engine overheating.[6]one source

Which engine and version to take

• A 2011 2.0 petrol automatic is a positive owner example: 9/10 after 80,000 km over eight years, with a quiet ride, good acceleration and a buy recommendation.[2]one source

What to avoid

• Choose an early 1.8 or 2.0 TFSI only after carefully checking oil consumption, as both sources flag an elevated risk in early versions.[5][6]

What to check at the inspection

• Check the service records and vehicle history, especially evidence of regular engine and transmission maintenance.[4][5]
• Test the MMI, central locking, reversing sensors and built-in phone; the screen should not go blank or freeze.[4][6]
• During the test drive, watch for vibration, jerking, unusual noises and power loss, especially with a Multitronic gearbox.[5][6]
• For an early 1.8 or 2.0 TFSI, establish how often oil is topped up and inspect the top of the engine for leaks.[5][6]
• Check the coolant level and look for signs of overheating because coolant-pump and water-pump failures have been reported.[5][6]
• Run a full diagnostic scan and investigate persistent warnings; sensor faults may affect the ABS, parking brake or engine management.[4][5]

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — TV AUTO ZIŅAS TESTĒ: Kur slēpjas Audi A5 Sportback ... · forum
2. [2]auto.jautajums.lv — Audi A5 atsauksmes | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum
3. [3]iauto.lv — Audi A5 Sportback,mazs apskats - Forums · forum
4. [4]whatcar.lv — Audi A5 kupeja (07-) - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press
5. [5]ir.lv — Biežākās problēmas ar lietotām Audi automašīnām un ... · press
6. [6]breakerlink.com — 10 of the most common problems with the Audi A5 · press

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