2009 Audi A5 Quattro

The 2009 Audi A5 Quattro is a stylish and sporty coupe known for its elegant design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The 2009 model year offered several engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2-liter V6 engine generating approximately 265 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission (depending on the engine). Owners generally appreciate the A5’s refined handling, luxurious features, and attractive styling. Common complaints often revolve around reliability issues, particularly with electrical components and the potential for costly repairs. The A5 has a timing chain on the 2.0T engine that is known to stretch over time and needs to be replaced, which can be very costly.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (TFSI)

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure/Timing Chain Stretch
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Can lead to misfires, poor performance, and eventually engine damage if not addressed. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft timing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, guides, and potentially other related components. Upgrading to the newer revision tensioner is highly recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, Audi has issued technical service bulletins and performed repairs involving piston ring replacement. Depending on the severity, the engine may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diverter Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost, reduced power, and potential misfires. Can cause the engine to enter limp mode.
  • Solution: Replacement of the diverter valve. Many owners upgrade to a stronger aftermarket valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and potential misfires.
  • Solution: Walnut blasting the intake valves to remove carbon deposits. Regular maintenance with fuel additives can help prevent future buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and potential for the transmission to enter limp mode.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter may temporarily alleviate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Vague or imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings. Replacing the entire control arm assembly is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies frequently, especially after the car has been sitting for a short period. Difficult to start the car.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty door lock actuators, infotainment system components, and alarm system issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door does not lock or unlock properly, requiring manual locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, sunroof track malfunction, water leaks around the sunroof.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track components, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or failure of the MMI (Multi Media Interface) system. Display screen issues.
  • Solution: Software update, component replacement (MMI control unit, display screen, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Audi A5 Quattro, while a desirable vehicle, can be prone to various issues. The most concerning problems often revolve around the 2.0T engine’s timing chain and oil consumption issues, and potential transmission problems. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also common. Repair costs can range from relatively minor expenses to significant investments, particularly for engine or transmission work. Owners should be prepared for the potential for higher-than-average maintenance costs with this vehicle.