2010 Audi S5
2010 Audi S5
Overview
The 2010 Audi S5, a performance-oriented grand tourer, offered a compelling blend of power and luxury. It was primarily available with a potent 4.2L V8 engine or a more efficient 3.0L supercharged V6, paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. While generally well-regarded for its driving dynamics and premium interior, like any performance vehicle, it has certain areas that warrant attention from an ownership perspective. This data focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related reliability concerns reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance.
Engine
4.2L V8 (Naturally Aspirated)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning between oil changes, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, piston ring replacement or PCV system service may be required.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Timing Chain Guides
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to severe engine damage if the chains jump or guides fail.
- Solution: Replacement of timing chains, tensioners, and guides. This is a labor-intensive job.
- Cost: $2000 - $4000
3.0L Supercharged V6
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
6-Speed Tiptronic Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or failure to boot up.
- Solution: Software updates or potential replacement of the MMI unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1200
Sensor Failures
- Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., ABS, ESP, check engine light) due to faulty sensors.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of specific faulty sensors.
- Cost: $150 - $500 per sensor
Exterior
Body and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2010 Audi S5 presents a generally reliable performance coupe, particularly the 3.0L supercharged V6 variant. The primary concerns revolve around the 4.2L V8 engine, specifically its tendency for oil consumption and potential timing chain guide wear, which can be costly to address. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system issues and sensor failures, are also noted but are not typically catastrophic. The transmission, suspension, exterior, and interior components are considered robust for the model year. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with a well-documented maintenance history, especially if considering the V8 model, and be aware of potential costs associated with the aforementioned engine issues.