Last updated: 2026-03-15

RELIABILITY SCORE: 77/100 (GOOD)

2018 Audi A5 Reliability Report

Name: 2018 Audi A5
Brand: Audi

The 2018 Audi A5 scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 6 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

2.3

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$739

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity72/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity75/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
ENGINE (2)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Redesign Year

2018 is the first model year of the Second generation (RE9).

First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
Refreshed in 2022.
2nd generation A5 (US).

What this means for buyers

First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.

Compare 2018 pricing and recall counts against 2019+ before deciding.

2018: Second generation (RE9) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 Audi A5?

The 2018 Audi A5 scores 77/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.

With 6 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.

A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (2). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2019 Audi A5, which scored 4 points lower.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+No recalls issued
+Below-average complaint rate for Sedan

Cons

−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (2 complaints)
−ENGINE: Owners of the 2018 Audi A5 report two main engine-related issues (2 complaints)

Compare 2018 Audi A5 With

2018 BMW 4-Series

Reliability: 54/100

Mixed

2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Reliability: 51/100

Mixed

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Reliability: 55/100

Mixed

2018 Lexus IS

Reliability: 81/100

Excellent

2018 Audi A4

Reliability: 71/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
ENGINE (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2018 Audi A5 has no recalls on record, which is uncommon and a positive indicator of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

2.3

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 25.4

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Audi A5 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 9.9%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Audi A5 Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$739

Repair Frequency

0.6

unscheduled repair visits per year

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Audi A5.

Test MMI system for frequent reboots, especially when using CarPlay
Inspect coolant pump for electrical component issues causing limp mode
Check for oil cooler failure signs, such as coolant in engine oil
Verify water pump condition and check for any settlement-related repairs
Ensure engine does not shut off unexpectedly during low-speed cornering

Buying a 2018 A5? Check Its History First

Every 2018 Audi A5 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN

2018 Audi A5 Common Problems by Component

6 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)ENGINE (2)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)POWER TRAIN (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Audi A5 report issues with the electrical system, specifically citing problems with the MMI system and the coolant pump. Complaints frequently mention the MMI screen rebooting every five minutes, including during the use of CarPlay. Additionally, some owners describe the vehicle entering limp mode due to electrical malfunctions related to the coolant pump, which a mechanic attributes to the pump's electrical component causing voltage dips. This issue is reported at approximately 87,000 miles and could potentially lead to overheating and fire risk if unresolved. These electrical problems may impact vehicle safety and usability, particularly for those considering purchasing a used model.

2 complaints total

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Audi A5 report two main engine-related issues. One common complaint involves the failure of the oil cooler at around 36,000 miles, which leads to coolant mixing with engine oil and poses a risk of engine damage. Another issue described is the engine shutting off unexpectedly while cornering at low speeds, with no warning signs, and this has been occurring over several years. These issues highlight potential safety concerns, especially with the engine shutting off during driving, which may lead to loss of control. Used car buyers should be aware of these reported problems, particularly if the vehicle has similar mileage or usage patterns.

2 complaints total

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

2025-09-26

I own a 2018 Audi A5. Many critical cooling system parts — including the thermostat housing, water pump housing, radiator end tanks, breather tubes, and quick-connect hoses — are made of plastic and sit in constant exposure to coolant temperatures over 200°F. Over time, these components become brittle, crack, and fail prematurely. Recently, the plastic breather/return hose between the coolant reservoir and the radiator broke apart during routine service due to brittleness. When these parts fail, coolant leaks quickly, which can cause sudden overheating, engine damage, and potential vehicle disablement while driving. Based on owner reports and my own experience, this appears to be a widespread issue across Audi/VW vehicles of this generation. I request that NHTSA investigate whether the use of plastic in these high-heat, high-pressure components represents a design defect that creates a safety hazard.

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2025-02-28

The water pump failed on my vehicle. Initially reported 2/2025 at Authorized Audi Service Center. They claimed it was normal for coolant to dip. Audi USA Confirmed I have a settlement class vehicle in 03/2025. Mentioned an 80K Mileage limit. (Car only had 69K miles at the time) When the issue persisted I reached out for repair in accordance to Water Pump Settlement. McKenna Audi Service center initially stated the extended warranty expired 05/2025, and mentioned an 8 Year Limit (8/80K whichever comes first) 9/3 Reached out to Audi USA again and they initially provided an approval. Instructed to take to authorized service center for official diagnosis. 9/5 Audi USA recanted approval 2 days later. Instructed to Call Settlement Administrator. SA stated this is fully Audi responsibly warranty does not expire until 9/2025 unable to assist. Spoke to supervisor at Audi USA who stated extended warranty did not expire until 09/26/2025 09/08 Audi Beverly Hills confirmed water pump malfunction. Sent invoice to supervisor at Audi USA. $2338.25 Supervisor informed me later that warranty is expired after all. Stated a regional manager would look at it but no guarantees. At this point I have spent $350 for a diagnosis I did not need to satisfy the demands of the Audi warranty that is now being denied.

When Do 2018 Audi A5 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

80,000–87,000 milesElectrical system failures

36,000–36,000 milesOil cooler failure

Best & Worst Audi A5 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Audi A5 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Audi A5 year is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (77/100) and 2018 (77/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

2023

0Recalls

0Complaints

Good

2025

0Recalls

1Complaints

Good

2018

(Current Model)

0Recalls

6Complaints

Audi A5 Years to Avoid

No Audi A5 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Audi A5 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Audi A5 years-to-avoid analysis

Audi A5 Reliability Score Trend

Audi A5 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 75/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Audi A5 reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	77/100	Good
2019	73/100	Good
2020	70/100	Good
2021	71/100	Good
2022	74/100	Good
2023	81/100	Excellent
2025	77/100	Good

Audi A5 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	77/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	0
2025	77/100	-4	Good	0	1
2023	81/100	+7	Excellent	0	0
2022	74/100	+3	Good	3	5
2021	71/100	+1	Good	5	7
2020	70/100	-3	Good	5	60
2019	73/100	-4	Good	3	12
2018(selected)	77/100	—	Good	0	6

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Audi A5 reliable?

The 2018 Audi A5 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 77/100. It is reasonably reliable with 0 recalls and 6 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi A5?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Audi A5 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints), POWER TRAIN (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Audi A5 have?

The 2018 Audi A5 has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.

Is the 2018 Audi A5 expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Audi A5 has estimated annual repair costs of $739/year. With a reliability score of 77/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2018 Audi A5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.