Used Audi A5 (2007-2016) Review: A Stylish Choice with Caveats

The first-generation Audi A5, produced from 2007 to 2016, stands out as a premium coupe, cabriolet, and later Sportback model that blends sharp handling, elegant lines, and a high-quality interior. Launched as a successor to the Audi TT in the coupe segment, it quickly gained praise for its grand tourer credentials while offering sports car agility. However, potential buyers must navigate its reputation for certain mechanical and electrical gremlins, particularly in higher-mileage examples. This guide draws on official recall data, owner reports, and reliability insights to help you decide if a used A5 fits your needs.

Design and Driving Experience

The A5’s exterior design remains timeless, with a long hood, sculpted flanks, and LED headlights that aged gracefully even by 2016 standards. Inside, the cabin impresses with soft-touch materials, supportive seats, and an intuitive layout dominated by the optional Multi-Media Interface (MMI) controller. Boot space is practical at around 455 liters for the coupe, expanding with folding rear seats, though the cabriolet’s soft top mechanism adds usability for open-air drives.

On the road, the A5 delivers composed handling thanks to its double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup. Quattro all-wheel drive, available on many models, enhances traction in wet conditions without sacrificing fun. Ride quality balances firmness for spirited driving with enough compliance for daily use, making it ideal for long motorway cruises or twisty B-roads.

Engine Lineup and Performance Breakdown

Audi offered a diverse range of powertrains for the A5, catering to petrolheads and diesel enthusiasts alike. Here’s a comparison of key options:

Performance shines in V6 variants, with the 3.0 TDI offering effortless cruising at 70 mph. Petrol TFSI engines provide sharper throttle response, but diesels dominate used markets for their economy. S5 models with the 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 (354 bhp) elevate thrills, hitting 0-60 in 4.9 seconds, while RS5’s 4.2 V8 pushes boundaries further.

Reliability Overview and Model-Year Variations

Overall, the A5 scores average reliability for its class, with 2016 models faring better than early 2007-2011 examples plagued by teething issues. Consumer Reports notes the 2016 A5 as comparable to peers, though electrical and engine cooling problems persist across years. High-mileage cars (over 100,000 miles) demand rigorous history checks, as neglect amplifies faults.

• Strong Points: Robust chassis, durable suspension components, and long-lasting brakes if not abused.
• Weak Areas: Electronics, turbochargers, and automatic transmissions top complaint lists.

Common Mechanical Faults to Watch For

Mechanical woes often stem from the demanding nature of premium performance. Turbocharged engines like the 2.0 TFSI suffer oil consumption if timing chains stretch, leading to rattles on startup. V6 petrol units can develop carbon buildup on valves, reducing efficiency. Diesels face diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging in short-trip drivers, triggering warning lights.

Transmission issues plague Multitronic CVTs in pre-2012 models, manifesting as harsh shifts, slipping, or outright failure around 80,000 miles. Later S tronic dual-clutch units improve but require fluid changes every 40,000 miles. Overheating in heavy traffic exacerbates these, so inspect for warning history.

Electrical and Interior Glitches

Electrical systems are a frequent pain point, especially the MMI infotainment. Screens freeze, fail to boot, or reject media, often due to faulty fiber-optic cables or control modules costing £1,000+ to fix. Airbag sensors and seat occupancy detectors glitch, illuminating dashboard lights unnecessarily.

Interior wear includes peeling buttons, creaking dashboards in cabriolets from UV exposure, and failing window regulators. Battery drain from faulty modules is common, so test all electronics during viewings.

Official Recalls and Safety Concerns

Several NHTSA recalls affect 2007-2016 A5s, primarily fire risks from cooling and electrical faults. Key ones include:

• Coolant Pump Overheating (17V002000, 18V229000): 2.0 TFSI engines’ electric pumps block with debris or short from moisture, risking fire. Software update (2017) followed by pump replacement (2018).
• Auxiliary Heater Wiring (17V622000): Corrosion causes wires to melt, fire hazard. Heater replacement and software fix applied free.
• Brake Servo Oil Ingress (2014): 3.0 TDI models risk oil contaminating brakes, issued in Australia but check globally.
• Takata Airbags and Seat Heaters: Impeller fracture or cable damage disabling passenger airbag.

Verify recall status via Audi dealers or VIN checks; most remedies are free even on used cars.

Buying Advice: What to Check Before Purchase

Target 2012+ models for refined S tronic transmissions and fewer early bugs. Prioritize full-service history, especially cambelt changes on chain-driven engines every 100,000 miles. Budget £2,000-£4,000 annually for maintenance on a 100,000-mile example.

• Pre-Purchase Inspection: Scan for fault codes, test drive for transmission smoothness, check exhaust for blue smoke (oil burn).
• Corrosion Check: Underside, wheel arches, and exhaust—salt roads accelerate rust.
• Tyre Wear: Uneven patterns signal alignment issues common in Quattros.
• Documentation: MOT history, recall completions, and timing chain records.

Prices range from £5,000 for high-mileage 2008s to £20,000 for pristine 2016 S5s. Negotiate based on outstanding recalls or deferred servicing.

Ownership Costs and Long-Term Value

Running costs reflect premium status: expect 30-50 mpg in diesels, insurance groups 25-40, and parts pricier than mass-market rivals. Tyres (£150 each) and brakes (£800/set) wear quickly in performance driving. Resale holds strong for low-mileage, Quattro-equipped cars.

Performance Variants: S5 and RS5 Highlights

The S5 adds supercharged grunt without RS5 excess, while the V8 RS5 thrills with 450 bhp but guzzles fuel (20 mpg). Both demand premium fuel and frequent oil checks; carbon cleaning every 50,000 miles prevents power loss.

FAQ

Is the 2007-2016 Audi A5 reliable?

Average for luxury cars, better post-2012. Watch for cooling and electrical issues.

What are the most common A5 problems?

Infotainment failures, CVT transmission woes, and coolant pump recalls top lists.

How much does a used A5 cost to maintain?

£2,000+ yearly for older high-milers, less with diligent servicing.

Are there any recalls I should check?

Yes, coolant pumps, heater wiring, and airbags—use VIN on NHTSA or Audi sites.

Best engine for a used A5?

3.0 TDI for balance of power, economy, and durability.

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medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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