2012 Audi S5

Introduction

The 2012 Audi S5 is a high-performance luxury coupe that offers a blend of style, power, and handling. It comes standard with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine producing 333 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Drivers of the S5 praise its powerful engine, precise handling, and luxurious interior. However, some have reported concerns with both the engine and transmission.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

• Water pump failure: Can cause the engine to overheat and fail. Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, loss of power. Solution: Replace the water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: Can cause the timing chain to jump or break, leading to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Valve lifter failure: Can cause a tapping or ticking noise from the engine. Symptoms: Tapping or ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the valve lifters. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure: Can cause the transmission to slip or engage poorly. Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, shuddering when engaging the clutch. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Mechatronic unit failure: Can cause the transmission to shift erratically or fail to engage gears. Symptoms: Jerky shifting, delayed shifts, refusal to engage gears, illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: Can cause excessive noise, vibration, and handling issues. Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Air suspension failure: Can cause the vehicle to lose height or become unstable. Symptoms: Sagging suspension, loss of height control, rough ride quality. Solution: Repair or replace the air suspension components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Electrical

• Battery drain: Can cause the battery to drain prematurely. Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, flickering lights, dead battery. Solution: Diagnose and repair the cause of the battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Headlight module failure: Can cause the headlights to fail or malfunction. Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, headlights not turning on, error messages on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the headlight module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard rattle: Can be caused by loose trim or panels. Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noise from the dashboard. Solution: Locate and tighten the loose trim or panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: Low (DIY possible)
• Infotainment system glitches: Can cause the screen to freeze or become unresponsive. Symptoms: Frozen or unresponsive screen, navigation errors, Bluetooth connectivity issues. Solution: Update the infotainment software, reset the system, or replace the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Summary

The 2012 Audi S5 is a desirable sports car with a powerful engine and refined interior. However, some potential issues with the engine, transmission, and other components should be considered before purchasing. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, so it is recommended to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before committing to a purchase.