Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2022–2024 Audi A5 Mk2 (F5)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2022–2024 Audi A5 Mk2 (F5). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 2022–2024 period has 1 more issue than the Audi A5 Mk2 (F5) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Water Pump / Thermostat Housing Leak

ModerateCooling System

Like the B9 A4, the A5 uses plastic cooling components that can seep or fail, causing repeated low-coolant warnings without an obvious puddle.

Most affected: 2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI, S5

Estimated cost: £350–£750Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 35k-90k miles

Typical symptoms

•Low coolant warning
•Pink residue at the front of the engine
•Sweet smell after shutdown

What to inspect before you buy

✓Inspect coolant level from cold and look around the pump and housing for staining
✓Check whether the car needs repeated top-ups
✓Look for specialist or dealer invoices rather than generic coolant additions

NOx Sensor / AdBlue Faults

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Diesel SCR hardware can trigger AdBlue countdowns, engine-management lights, and expensive sensor or injector replacement once the car is out of warranty.

Most affected: 2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI

Estimated cost: £250–£1,200Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 40k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

•AdBlue warning or no-start countdown
•Engine light with emissions faults
•Repeated warnings soon after topping up AdBlue

What to inspect before you buy

✓Scan the car for stored NOx and SCR faults
✓Ask for evidence of recent sensor, injector, or software work
✓Avoid diesel cars used only for short commutes if the emissions history is patchy

Buying Tips for the 2022 Audi A5 Mk2 (F5)

✓Inspect the water pump and thermostat housing for crusty pink residue, as slow coolant leaks are very common on both the 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TDI engines.
✓Test the S tronic gearbox for smooth engagement; hesitations or clunky shifts could indicate a failing mechatronic unit, especially if the 38k-mile fluid changes were missed.
✓Check the MMI infotainment screen and Virtual Cockpit for flickering, lagging, or black screens, which may require expensive software updates or unit replacements.
✓On diesel models, check for AdBlue system warnings, as failed NOx sensors or injector pumps can lead to a 'no-start' countdown and costly repairs.
✓Examine the front suspension for knocking noises over speed bumps, which is typically caused by premature wear of the complex multi-link control arm bushes.
✓Ensure the matrix LED headlights (if fitted) are fully functional without moisture ingress, as replacing a faulty cluster is exceptionally expensive.

2021 Audi A5 Mk2 (F5)