2018 Audi S5
Only 26 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 26 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 26 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
9 of 26 total reports mention: engine.
3 of 26 total reports mention: visibility/wiper.
3 of 26 total reports mention: air bags.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
â¢Parking Brake Issue: The parking brake failed to disengage after stopping, leading to an accident. â¢Intoxalock Device Malfunction: The Intoxalock device malfunctioned with incessant beeping and intermittent error messages, causing distractions.
NHTSA ODI report, 20241021
2 of 26 total reports mention: seat belts.
2 of 26 total reports mention: power train.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2018 S5 Cabriolet, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, S4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, and 2017-2018 A4 Sedan and A4 Allroad vehicles.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will install cable ties to the harness, free of charge. The recall began September 9, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's number for this recall is 74D9.
Campaign 19V547000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the connecting cable and either the heating mat or entire seat cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
Campaign 21V874000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Audi S5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V547000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V874000 (air bags, seats) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2018 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 2018 Audi S5?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 35% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Audi S5 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.