2011 Audi S5

2011 Audi S5

Overview

The 2011 Audi S5, a performance-oriented grand tourer, offered a compelling blend of power and luxury. It was available with potent V6 and V8 engine options, paired with either manual or automatic transmissions. While generally considered a robust vehicle, like any performance car, certain areas can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for owners and prospective buyers of the 2011 model year.

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Engine

4.2L V8 FSI

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners, guides, and potentially the chains themselves.
• Cost: $2500 - $4500

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil usage between changes, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage.
• Solution: Can range from piston ring replacement to PCV valve replacement, depending on the cause.
• Cost: $500 - $2000

3.0L Supercharged V6 TFSI

Supercharger Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the engine bay, battery warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of the supercharger drive belt and potentially the tensioner.
• Cost: $200 - $500

PCV Valve Failure

• Symptoms: Rough idle, oil leaks, potential for increased oil consumption.
• Solution: Replacement of the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $1000 - $2000

6-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, rough shifting, slipping.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Mechatronic Unit Failure

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning lights, failure to engage gears.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the mechatronic unit.
• Cost: $2000 - $4000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

Infotainment System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, audio issues, navigation problems.
• Solution: Software updates, or in some cases, replacement of the MMI unit.
• Cost: $300 - $1500

Sensor Failures (e.g., ABS/ESP)

• Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard (ABS, ESP, Traction Control), potential loss of functionality.
• Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors.
• Cost: $200 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2011 Audi S5, particularly with the V8 engine, is known for its engaging driving experience but can present some significant repair costs, especially concerning timing chain components. The V6 variant generally offers better reliability in the engine department but can still encounter issues like supercharger belt or PCV valve problems. Transmission reliability is generally good, though automatic transmissions can develop issues with the torque converter or mechatronic unit. Suspension components like control arm bushings are wear items that may need replacement. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system, are not uncommon. Overall, while a desirable performance car, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of costly repairs, especially related to the engine and transmission.