2009 Audi R8

The 2009 Audi R8 is a mid-engine sports car known for its striking design, engaging driving experience, and naturally aspirated engines. The standard engine for the 2009 model year was a 4.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The R8 was also available with a 5.2-liter V10 engine. The 4.2L V8 was paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed R-Tronic automated manual transmission. Owners appreciate the R8 for its exotic looks, balanced handling, and the visceral sound of the V8 or V10 engine. Common complaints include the automated manual transmission’s sometimes jerky shifts, higher-than-average maintenance costs, and limited cargo space.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on location of leak
• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 4.2L V8 are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. This restricts airflow, leading to reduced performance, rough idling, and misfires.
  • Solution: Manual cleaning of the intake valves by media blasting or walnut blasting, or chemical cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

5.2L V10

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking or making noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

6-Speed R-Tronic Automated Manual

• Harsh Shifting/Jerky Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: The R-Tronic transmission is known for its occasionally harsh shifts, particularly at low speeds. It can also exhibit jerky engagement from a stop.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes improve shift quality. Clutch adaptations can also help. In severe cases, clutch replacement or transmission repair may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software update) - $8000+ (Clutch replacement/Transmission repair)
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The R-Tronic transmission relies on a hydraulic pump to operate the clutch and shift gears. Pump failure can result in inability to shift, warning lights, and transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The magnetic ride control system can experience failures in the shocks. Symptoms include a rough or bouncy ride, warning lights on the dashboard, and uneven handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty magnetic ride shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ per shock

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain due to parasitic draw. Can result in a dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, which can be caused by faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory navigation system can experience problems such as screen freezing, incorrect GPS location, and software glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housing or replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The leather or vinyl on the dashboard may start to separate from the underlying structure, creating bubbles or peeling.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+

Recalls

• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Audi R8 is a desirable sports car but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most common problems relate to the R-Tronic transmission, oil leaks from the engine, carbon buildup, and potential failure of the magnetic ride suspension. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for transmission and suspension issues. Despite these potential problems, the R8 remains a popular choice for those seeking a unique and exciting driving experience.