Audi A5 Common Problems

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report that the 2020 Audi A5 frequently experiences issues with the Multi-Media Interface (MMI) system, which randomly reboots during operation. Typical symptoms include the MMI screen going black, loss of navigation, and disconnection from Apple CarPlay, often occurring every few minutes. This issue can disable critical features like the backup camera and parking sensors, posing potential safety risks, especially during maneuvers such as reversing or navigating complex traffic situations. Complaints often mention that the problem persists despite software updates, with some owners noting the issue began sporadically and increased in frequency over time. Buyers should be aware of this recurring issue, as it may affect vehicle functionality and driver focus.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report persistent issues with the Multi Media Interface (MMI) system in the 2020 Audi A5, which frequently reboots or shuts down unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention that this affects navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and the backup camera, with systems often restarting every few minutes. These problems have been documented both shortly after purchase and after extended use, with some owners experiencing issues as early as 10,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, as the loss of the backup camera and navigation can lead to distractions and potential hazards while driving. Multiple owners describe unsuccessful attempts at repair, with some mentioning recurring issues despite multiple dealership visits and software updates.

TIRES

Owners report issues with tire tread separation on the 2022 Audi A5, frequently describing incidents where the tread detaches from the tire, sometimes leading to tire failure. Complaints often mention the front passenger-side tire as a common point of failure, with some incidents occurring during highway driving in hot weather conditions. The timeline for these failures varies, with some owners experiencing issues shortly after purchasing the vehicle and others after several months. Safety implications are significant, as owners describe sudden tire blowouts that could potentially lead to loss of vehicle control, though no crashes are reported. Used car buyers should be aware of these tire issues and verify if tires have been replaced or if any recall-related actions have been completed.

STEERING

Owners of the 2019 Audi A5 report issues with the electric power steering system, primarily involving sudden steering failure while driving. Complaints frequently mention the steering wheel becoming extremely difficult to turn, often accompanied by a "Steering Malfunction" message on the instrument panel. These incidents occur at highway speeds, around 50-55 MPH, and one report specifies a failure at approximately 17,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one owner nearly crashing and another reporting a crash resulting in a total loss due to a separate issue involving rear suspension components. Used car buyers should be aware of the potential for steering malfunctions that may pose safety risks.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners report issues with the 2019 Audi A5's pre-sense system, which frequently applies brakes unexpectedly. Complaints describe the system engaging during left turns at intersections and while driving at high speeds on expressways, despite no immediate danger being present. This sudden braking can lead to hazardous situations, particularly when the vehicle is in the path of oncoming traffic or traveling at high speeds. The incidents occur at various speeds and scenarios, with no specific mileage range consistently noted. These patterns suggest potential safety implications due to loss of control or increased risk of collision during abrupt braking events.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2021 Audi A5 report issues related to transmission warnings and backup camera malfunctions. One complaint details a transmission warning light that progresses to a complete inability to shift gears, requiring the vehicle to be towed, though no overheating or engine shutdown occurs. Another complaint involves a recurring problem with the backup camera, which after a recall repair, still displays a white, black, or frozen screen. The transmission issue occurs while driving, potentially impacting vehicle operability, while the camera problem affects rear visibility. No specific mileage is mentioned, but the transmission issue involves a prolonged repair period without a clear diagnosis.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Audi A5 report issues with the electrical system, specifically involving the instrument panel and power loss. One complaint describes the instrument panel blinking and then going dark while driving at 35 MPH, with the issue requiring a replacement panel at 56,795 miles. Another owner reports a loss of power and inability to restart after shifting from reverse to drive at 5 MPH, attributed to a wet gateway under the rear seat, necessitating the replacement of the gateway and battery at 3,500 miles. These issues present potential safety implications, such as sudden power loss while driving. Buyers should be aware of these electrical concerns, particularly at varying mileage levels.

BACK OVER PREVENTION

Owners report that the 2020 Audi A5 experiences issues with the MMI system, which frequently reboots spontaneously. Typical symptoms include the MMI system turning off while the vehicle is in reverse, leading to the cameras shutting down and loss of navigation, parking, and collision warning aids. Complaints suggest these issues emerge without prior modifications or warnings, notably starting in early 2025. Although no crashes are explicitly reported, owners describe near-miss situations due to the sudden loss of back-over prevention features. Buyers should be aware that these problems persist even after dealership inspections and software updates.