2018 Audi RS5

The 2018 Audi RS5 is a performance coupe that blends luxury with exhilarating power. It is only available with a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 444 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the RS5 for its rapid acceleration, refined interior, and comfortable ride for a performance car. Common criticisms include the somewhat muted exhaust note, a lack of driver engagement compared to rivals, and the high price point.

Engine

2.9L Twin-Turbo V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks originating from the thermostat housing and/or the plastic coolant pipes, resulting in low coolant warnings, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing with an updated part and/or replace the plastic coolant pipes with metal ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from various seals and gaskets, like the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP55A)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between lower gears, and occasional hesitation when accelerating. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Software updates may help, but sometimes valve body replacement or transmission replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) - $4,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions (If Equipped with Dynamic Ride Control)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicles equipped with the optional Dynamic Ride Control may experience malfunctions in the adaptive dampers. Symptoms include a rough ride, clunking noises from the suspension, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system can experience glitches, freezing, screen blackouts, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates, MMI unit reset, or MMI unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2000+ (MMI Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of various sensors, such as parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS), or blind spot monitoring sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• LED Lighting Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlights or taillights malfunctioning, with sections of the light failing or flickering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected LED unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the light)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions including getting stuck, failing to open or close properly, or excessive wind noise.
  • Solution: Sunroof track repair/lubrication or sunroof motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Audi RS5, while a desirable performance coupe, does have some common issues owners have reported. The most concerning issues appear to be related to coolant and oil leaks on the engine, and rough shifting related to the transmission. Electrical issues related to the infotainment system and sensors are also common. Suspension problems, especially with the optional Dynamic Ride Control, can also occur. The severity and cost of these issues vary greatly depending on the specific problem, ranging from minor software updates to costly component replacements. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchase decision, and look to have a prepurchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.