2020 Audi S5 Sportback

The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback is a stylish and sporty four-door coupe that offers a blend of performance and practicality. It is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its sleek design, powerful engine, comfortable interior, and advanced technology features. Conversely, some common complaints revolve around the infotainment system complexity and reliability concerns.

Engine

3.0-Liter Turbocharged V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from the water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ depending on the specific component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh shifting, particularly during downshifts, or hesitation when accelerating. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or transmission fluid flush may resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with the adaptive damping suspension, some owners have reported issues with the dampers failing or becoming noisy. Symptoms include a rough ride, clunking noises, and error messages.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty dampers is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or slow response times.
  • Solution: Software updates are often the first step. In some cases, the MMI unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (MMI unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors or driver assistance sensors, can fail, leading to error messages and malfunctioning systems.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor is the necessary solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the sensor and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may exhibit issues such as getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the noise. This can range from tightening loose trim pieces to adding sound-deadening material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback generally offers a pleasant driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners. Engine and transmission issues like oil leaks and harsh shifting can be relatively expensive to fix. Infotainment system glitches are also a common annoyance. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, so a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended before purchasing a used 2020 Audi S5 Sportback.