2014 Audi A5

The 2014 Audi A5 is a stylish and sporty coupe or convertible known for its sleek design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The base engine is a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. Higher trim levels offer a 3.0L supercharged V6 engine that produces 272 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the A5’s aesthetics, handling, and interior quality, but some common complaints include higher maintenance costs, potential for oil consumption issues, and electrical glitches.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (220 HP/258 lb-ft)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2.0T engines in the 2014 A5 are prone to excessive oil consumption. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, the need to frequently add oil between scheduled oil changes, and potential for engine damage if oil levels are not monitored and maintained.
  • Solution: The fix can range from software updates and PCV valve replacement to piston ring replacement or even complete engine replacement in severe cases. An Audi dealership will perform an oil consumption test to determine the severity of the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a loose timing chain. This can cause a rattling noise, especially on start-up, and potentially lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing chain slips.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and related components. The updated version of the tensioner is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Supercharged V6 (272 HP/295 lb-ft)

• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The supercharger can fail, leading to a loss of power and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a whining noise from the engine bay and decreased acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can fail. This can cause erratic shifting, harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or complete loss of gear selection.
  • Solution: Replacing the Mechatronic unit or the entire transmission in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps. It can also lead to vague steering and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially if left parked for a few days. This can be caused by a faulty module or an electrical short.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw. This can involve replacing faulty modules, repairing wiring, or replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system may freeze, crash, or display error messages.
  • Solution: Software updates may fix some issues. In other cases, the unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (for software update) - $2,000+ (for replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Malfunction (A5 Cabriolet)
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may fail to open or close properly, or get stuck midway. This can be due to a faulty motor, hydraulic pump, or sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the convertible top mechanism. This can involve replacing the motor, pump, sensors, or hydraulic lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can get stuck, make grinding noises, or fail to close properly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Audi A5, while a stylish and enjoyable vehicle, can be prone to several issues. The most concerning is excessive oil consumption in the 2.0T engine, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues and suspension problems are also fairly common. Owners should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to some other vehicles in its class. The severity and cost of the issues can vary widely, but addressing them promptly is crucial to maintaining the A5’s reliability and performance.