2013 Audi S5
Only 16 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 16 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 | 3 |
| 2010 | 20 |
| 2011 | 8 |
| 2012 | 10 |
| 2013 | 16 |
| 2014 | 5 |
| 2015 | 2 |
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2018 | 26 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2020 | 25 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 3 |
| 2024 | 2 |
| 2025 | 9 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 16 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
10 of 16 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
NHTSA Safety Complaint DraftVehicle Information:Year/Make/Model: 2013 Audi S5 Premium Plus CoupeVIN: [XXX]: Power Train / Transmission (7-Speed Dual-Clutch S-Tronic / DSG)Description of Safety Defect:I am writing to report a severe, recurring safety...
NHTSA ODI report, 20260616
I had a very pricey service performed on my vehicle and during that service they said there was a service bulletin or recall that required a software upgrade for the transmission (Audi of El Paso, TX).
NHTSA ODI report, 20250303
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY ALL OF THE SUDDEN I LOST POWER AND FELT JERKY MOVEMENTS I HAD TO PULL OVER. OBVIOUSLY I HAD CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COME AND GEARBOX MALFUNCTION MESSAGE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180721
3 of 16 total reports mention: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING FAILS WITH EITHER WATER INFILTRATION INTO THE CONTROLLER, OR WITH SEVERE COLD WEATHER. THIS ISSUE IS KNOWN BY AUDI USA BY THEY ARE REFUSING TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190305
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, THERE IS RESISTANCE AT THE 12 O'CLOCK POSITION IN THE STEERING. THIS RESISTANCE CAUSES THE DRIVER TO OVER CORRECT AND MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE CAR DRIVING IN A STRAIGHT LINE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140203
I WAS TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT AND THE STEERING LOCKED UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TURN AND A MESSAGE CAME UP "STEERING DEFECTIVE. DO NOT DRIVE".
NHTSA ODI report, 20131231
3 of 16 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
AFTER ~106,000 MILES, AN ERROR CODE 'TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION. YOU CAN KEEP DRIVING', WITH ERROR CODE P179D00 (PER DEALER).
NHTSA ODI report, 20181113
1 of 16 total reports mentions: fuel/propulsion system.
1 of 16 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2013 Audi S5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (3 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2013 Audi S5 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 2013 Audi S5?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 63% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Audi S5 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.