2008 Audi A5
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 5 |
| 2009 | 11 |
| 2010 | 34 |
| 2011 | 24 |
| 2012 | 22 |
| 2013 | 33 |
| 2014 | 28 |
| 2015 | 8 |
| 2016 | 7 |
| 2017 | 0 |
| 2018 | 35 |
| 2019 | 12 |
| 2020 | 60 |
| 2021 | 7 |
| 2022 | 6 |
| 2023 | 8 |
| 2024 | 7 |
| 2025 | 5 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 5 total reports mention: service brakes.
Show complaint excerpts
2008 Audi A5 3.2L S-Line Coupe experiencing severe water intrusion into trunk compartment causing progressive failure of multiple electronic modules.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260415
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR AND THE PARKING BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE HORN HAD FAILED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140212
2 of 5 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
2008 Audi A5 3.2L S-Line Coupe experiencing severe water intrusion into trunk compartment causing progressive failure of multiple electronic modules.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260415
2 of 5 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR AND THE PARKING BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE HORN HAD FAILED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140212
1 of 5 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
MAIN BEAM/LEFT DIPPED HEADLIGHT WARNING CAME ON. SECOND TIME DEALING WITH THIS PROBLEM AND HAVE READ THAT AUDIS ARE NOTORIOUS FOR THE SAME ISSUE BUT NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT IT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20131004
SAFETY TIMELINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Audi A4, A5, and Q5 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69O1.
Campaign 16V376000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 Audi A5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 16V376000 (air bags) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2008 Audi A5 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Audi A5?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Audi A5 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.