Audi S5 8T
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
333 PS
3.0L TFSI V6 Benzin
Supercharged V6 in a coupé — the whine is addictive
Legendary!354 PS
4.2L FSI V8 Benzin
12 weaknesses
Stay Away!Body Variants
The Audi S5 8T is available as Coupé and Cabrio and Schrägheck — choose your body type for specific insurance data:
Generations
Engine Overview
The Audi S5 8T is available with 3 engine variants — from 333 to 354 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Audi 3.0L TFSI V6 (Benziner, 333 PS) has the CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 15 known weaknesses.
The Audi 4.2L FSI V8 (Benziner, 354 PS) has the CGKD (4.2L FSI V8) — rated: "Stay Away!", 12 known weaknesses.
The Audi S5 (Benziner, 333–354 PS) comes with 2 different engines: CGKD (2007–2012, Stay Away!) und CAKA (2012–2016, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the S5!
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| S-tronic DL501 mechatronic / clutch The 7-speed S-tronic DL501 is prone to judder when pulling away and when shifting, especially under load or at low temperatures. The cause is usually a worn dual-clutch pack or a faulty mechatronic valve block. Symptoms: Judder when pulling away (1st to 2nd gear), hesitant R-to-D shift, shift jolt at low speeds. from 90,000 km | High | |
| Manual gearbox V8 clutch wears prematurely The S5 4.2 V8 with manual gearbox has a heavy clutch that wears prematurely under spirited use. The high torque overloads the clutch plate. Symptoms: Clutch heavy to operate, biting point migrates lower, slipping under high load or when warm. from 80,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues
A total of 49 weaknesses have been documented for the Audi S5 8T (2007–2017) — 35 engine-related and 14 vehicle-related. One problem engine: CGKD (4.2L FSI V8). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Other, Body.
S5 (CGKD, 2006–2012) — Stay Away!: Timing Chain: Guide Rail Breaks — Most Expensive V8 Repair, Camshaft Adjusters — Fault Codes and Limp Mode, Timing Chain Guide Rails Fracture. Power: 354 PS.
S5 (CAKA, 2012–2016) — Be Careful: Internal intercooler in supercharger leaking, High-pressure pump failure with swarf distribution, Timing chain rattles on cold start. Power: 333 PS.
S5 (CWGD, 2016–2018) — Be Careful: Rocker Arm Roller Failure (GP0 Production), Water Pump Internal Failure with Coolant in Vacuum System, 48V Mild Hybrid System Fault (from 2019 Facelift). Power: 354 PS.
S5 (CWGD, 2016–2023) — Be Careful: Rocker Arm Roller Failure (GP0 Production), Water Pump Internal Failure with Coolant in Vacuum System, 48V Mild Hybrid System Fault (from 2019 Facelift). Power: 354 PS.
What to watch out for with the Audi S5? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee