2018 Audi S5 Problems
The 2018 Audi S5 has 26 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls, with engine problems dominating owner reports. Based on 26 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2018 Audi S5 has 26 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2018 Audi S5 Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 3 2018 Audi S5 trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.
2018 Audi S5 Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2018 Audi S5 2 DR AWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
AUDI S5 2018 has 26 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls, with engine problems (9 complaints) as the top issue. Low data confidence means these numbers may not reflect the full population. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Audi
- Model
- S5
- Model year
- 2018
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 26
- Crash-related complaints
- 2
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 24
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 21 / 30
- Fuel type
- Premium Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2018 Audi S5 problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Uncategorized Issues
Airbag Malfunctions
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Uncategorized Issues, Airbag Malfunctions. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2018 Audi S5?
The 2018 Audi S5 may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the low data confidence and engine complaint cluster warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Proceed with caution and verify all recall work.
Engine problems are the top complaint, which can lead to costly repairs. Low data confidence means the true failure rate is uncertain, so buyers should not assume this year is trouble-free.
May Suit
This year may suit a buyer who prioritizes performance and is willing to invest in a detailed mechanical inspection and extended warranty.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking maximum reliability with minimal risk should consider a different model year or vehicle with higher data confidence and fewer engine complaints.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2018 Audi S5
Inspection Focus
- Engine: Check for unusual noises, leaks, and check engine light history.
- Airbags: Verify no open recalls or warning lights related to airbag system.
- Visibility/Wipers: Test wiper operation and inspect windshield for cracks.
Before You Close the Deal
- Pre-purchase inspection focused on engine problems (9 complaints).
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine, airbag, and electrical systems.
- Have a mechanic inspect before purchase.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2018 Audi S5, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 Audi S5 shows a low confidence pattern of 26 complaints, led by 9 engine problems and 8 uncategorized issues. Two recalls and 2 crash-related complaints add caution. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: With only one model year analyzed, no direct comparison to lower- or higher-complaint years is possible from this data.
Recall context: Two recalls indicate that at least two safety-related issues were identified, so verifying all recall repairs is essential before purchase.
- Engine problems account for 9 of 26 total complaints, the highest count.
- Uncategorized issues total 8 complaints, the second most common category.
- Two crash-related complaints were reported, though the data does not confirm causation.
- Engine Problems: 9 complaints suggest potential reliability issues.
- Uncategorized Issues: 8 complaints with unspecified nature add uncertainty.
- Airbag Malfunctions: 3 complaints indicate possible safety system concerns.
Full breakdown
All 2018 Audi S5 complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Audi S5. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 9 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 1 | 1 | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Audi S5. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
An Audi dealer has just diagnosed my 2018 S5 Cabriolet Prestige with vacuum system contamination caused by water pump failure. I had requested the diagnostic due to small coolant leaks on the engine and loss of coolant in the expansion tank. No warning lights and no overheating y…
Component/System: Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) / Airbag system — Recall 74E3 / NHTSA 21V874. What Happened: The passenger airbag may switch off even when the seat is occupied due to a faulty PODS wiring connection. The warning message “Passenger Airbag Off” appears…
VEHICLE Year: 2018 Make: Audi Model: S5 Prestige Trim: 3.0 TFSI (EA839 V6 Turbo) Mileage: 86,000 Engine Code: CWGD COMPLAINT TITLE Latent Engine Failure – EA839 Piston Skirt + Rocker Arm Defects – Dealer Broke Engine Cover, Left Wiring Harness Dangling – Audi Denies Despite Havi…
Vacuum line has coolant due to water pump failure and over heating of engine. Whole water pump and coolant reservoir plus hoses need to be replaced before additional damage to vehicle.
To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this complaint to report a mechanical issue with my 2018 Audi S5 Sportback. Around 57,000 miles, the engine began making a noticeable ticking noise, which I have been advised is due to failing rocker arms. This issue has raised serious con…
While driving, my Audi overheated randomly, started smoking, had to be towed. Had 72,800 miles, was serviced by Audi at 70k miles and all prior recommended services. Towed to Audi dealership, quoted 29k in engine repairs, Audi could never tell me why engine overheated. Would not …
•Parking Brake Issue: The parking brake failed to disengage after stopping, leading to an accident. •Intoxalock Device Malfunction: The Intoxalock device malfunctioned with incessant beeping and intermittent error messages, causing distractions. •Previous Complaints and Lack of R…
After driving for 7 to 8 minutes less that 45 mph, a yellow warning lamp and an audible warning indicating unsafe coolant temperature displayed on the dash. An overheating engine is unsafe for me and drivers near me. I immediately pulled over and turned off the A/C. I then tu…
I received a coolant overheating message, pulled to side of road. Let vehicle cool off although it just showed coolant warning and actual engine temperature showed normal along with oil temperature. Started car back up and it was ok, drove about a mile, engine started steaming, w…
I was returning home from visiting family. My drive was approx 140 miles home. The car was running/driving normally when I stopped at a gas station to get a snack. When I came back to my car and attempted to start it, it would not start and had camshaft and crankshaft sensor DTC'…
The system warning keeps coming on, I’ve tried to schedule appointments with Audi since 2022 and they have zero appointments available
The sunroof exploded. Driving on a good quality highway (CA76), no temperature extremes, no bumps or potholes. Heard what sounded like a gunshot. Pulled over thinking it might be a tire failure, to find my sunroof severely shattered. There was no debris inside the car, other than…
My 2018 Audi S5 Prestige with 59K miles meticulously maintained by the dealer had the Suspension Warning light came on about a week ago. I brought it to my local Audi mechanic and they found the right rear spring had broken about 1/3 of the way from the base and the shock had bee…
The 2018 year for the Audi S5 has a notorious rocker arm failure within the engine. Audi is aware of this problem because they have revised the part for later build dates. However, they have failed to remedy the issue for the vehicles that fall within the problematic build dates.…
The lever that locks and unlocks the steering column for proper driving position fell off. The single bolt holding the lever fell out followed by the lever. This occurred when the driver utilized the lever to reposition the steering wheel. The steering wheel was not locked int…
THE CAR'S OVERALL ELECTRONIC RELIABILITY AND SAFETY ARE HUGE AREAS OF CONCERN. REARVIEW CAMERA AND SENSORS DO NOT ALWAYS WORK. SOMETIMES IT WILL OPERATE WHILE CAR IS IN MOTION BUT IT WILL BLACK OUT WHICH ULTIMATELY IMPAIRS THE DRIVER'S ABILITY TO REVERSE AND AVOID ANY OBJECTS …
DURING A DRIVE ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY IN TENNESSEE ON12/27/19, THE SUNROOF SUDDENLY EXPLODED. SPEED WAS APPROXIMATELY 75-80 MPH ON A CLOUDY DAY WITH THE TEMPERATURE IN THE LOW 60'S F. WITHOUT ANY PRIOR INDICATIONS, THERE WAS A LOUD BOOM. A SECTION OF THE SUNROOF APPROX 18' IN …
I WAS DRIVING ON A BIG HIGHWAY DOING ABOUT 75MPH AND ALL OF A SUDDEN FOR NO REASON I GET A BIG PRESENSE WARNING FLASH ON MY CONSOLE, THEN A TRANSMISSION ERROR, THEN TIRE PRESSURE ERROR, THEN ENGINE MALFUNCTION ALL IN A ROW AND MY CAR JUST TOTALLY SHUTS OFF AND I HAD TO COAST OVER…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI S5. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE SEAT BELT WARNING CHIME CONTINUOUSLY SOUNDED EVEN WITH THE SEAT BELT ENGAGED AND IN USE. THE SEAT BELT WARNING INDICATOR ALSO REMAINED ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO AUDI BIRMINGHA…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI S5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEARBOX AND PARKING BRAKE RELEASED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE ROLLED AWAY AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE BARRIER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJUR…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Audi S5.
Safety recalls
2018 Audi S5 recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Audi S5. Two recalls indicate that at least two safety-related issues were identified, so verifying all recall repairs is essential before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
SEATS
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2018 Audi S5 buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2018 Audi S5 reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 26 owner complaints, 2 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2018 Audi S5 may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the low data confidence and engine complaint cluster warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Proceed with caution and verify all recall work. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi S5?▾
#1: Engine Problems (9 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (8 complaints). #3: Airbag Malfunctions (3 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Audi S5?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2018 Audi S5?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Audi S5, NHTSA complaints include 2 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 26 total complaints. 1 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2018 Audi S5 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2018 Audi S5. A major recall area is AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE. Two recalls indicate that at least two safety-related issues were identified, so verifying all recall repairs is essential before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2018 Audi S5?▾
The 2018 Audi S5 may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the low data confidence and engine complaint cluster warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Proceed with caution and verify all recall work. Engine problems are the top complaint, which can lead to costly repairs. Low data confidence means the true failure rate is uncertain, so buyers should not assume this year is trouble-free. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Audi S5 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.