2009 Audi S5

The 2009 Audi S5 is a performance-oriented coupe and cabriolet that offers a blend of luxury and sporty driving dynamics. The most sought-after engine option for this year is the 4.2-liter V8 engine producing 354 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. However, it was also available with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6, which was introduced later in the model year. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic. Many owners appreciate the S5’s stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. Common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, and the V8 engine’s potential for carbon buildup and timing chain issues.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 4.2L V8 are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased performance, misfires, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: A manual cleaning of the intake valves (walnut blasting) is the most common solution. Chemical cleaning methods are also available but may not be as effective.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioners on the 4.2L V8 can fail, leading to timing chain rattle, especially on startup. If left unaddressed, this can cause severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, chains, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 4.2L V8 engines experience excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the PCV valve can help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for PCV valve, $5000+ for piston ring replacement.

3.0L Supercharged V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

6-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Tiptronic automatic transmission can experience valve body issues, leading to harsh shifting, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings, especially on the front suspension, can wear out, leading to clunking noises, vibrations, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arms or just the bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm.

Electrical

• Navigation/MMI System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Multi Media Interface (MMI) system can experience various issues, including screen malfunctions, software glitches, and failure to connect to devices.
  • Solution: Software updates, component replacement (screen, control unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, particularly if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic drain and addressing the faulty component (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket electronics).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the source of the drain.

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can fail or malfunction, resulting in error messages and improper headlight aiming.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or individual components (e.g., stepper motors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per headlight.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to jam or become misaligned.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Recalls

• None Found

Summary

The 2009 Audi S5 offers a thrilling driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly with the 4.2L V8 engine. Carbon buildup and timing chain issues are major concerns that can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical and suspension problems can also arise. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Addressing these problems can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic highly recommended.