2021 Audi A5 Quattro

The 2021 Audi A5 Quattro is a stylish and sporty compact car available in coupe, sportback (hatchback), and cabriolet body styles. The most common engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, producing 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. Some owners appreciate the A5’s sleek design, upscale interior, and engaging driving dynamics. Common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s complexity, limited rear passenger space (especially in the coupe), and the firm ride quality on some models.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (261 hp)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: The issue can be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals. A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the cause. Depending on the severity, repairs can range from replacing valve stem seals to a complete engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points in the cooling system, including the water pump, thermostat housing, or radiator. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing the water pump, thermostat housing, or radiator hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Hesitation or Jerking During Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional hesitation or jerky shifts, particularly at low speeds or during initial acceleration.
  • Solution: A software update for the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission fluid flush or replacement of the mechatronic unit (valve body) may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue can manifest as a delay in power delivery, increased engine revs without corresponding acceleration, or difficulty engaging gears. It is related to the dual clutch pack degrading.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components such as control arm bushings and sway bar links, leading to noises (clunking or rattling) and degraded handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI infotainment system can experience various issues, including freezing, crashing, slow response times, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve some issues. In other cases, a replacement of the MMI unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver assistance systems can be reported.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks Into Tail Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Water can seep into tail lights and become visible.
  • Solution: Tail light assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported problems with the sunroof/moonroof, including difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof/moonroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Audi A5 Quattro, while generally a reliable and desirable vehicle, can experience some common issues. The most concerning are related to the engine (excessive oil consumption, coolant leaks) and transmission (hesitation, clutch slipping), which can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and premature wear of suspension components are also noteworthy. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.