2019 Audi RS5 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2019 Audi RS5
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the tires.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2017 Audi RS5 earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system & sensors (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2019 Audi RS5?
The 2019 Audi RS5 delivers thrilling performance and exquisite luxury, making it a highly desirable machine for the right owner. However, this level of engineering sophistication comes with a moderate risk of complex, expensive repairs if proactive maintenance is neglected. It's an excellent choice for enthusiasts with a dedicated budget for premium ownership.
The 2019 Audi RS5 is an immensely capable and desirable performance coupe/Sportback, offering a compelling blend of luxury and raw power. However, it demands a significant budget for diligent, specialized maintenance and has a moderate risk of expensive, complex repairs. It's a car for enthusiasts prepared for premi…
Best Model Years
2019-2023 (The B9 generation offers consistent reliability across these years, with minor refinements in later models.)
Years to Avoid
No specific years to outright avoid within the 2018-2023 B9 generation, though some early production 2018 models may have had more initial software tweaks.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 2.9L V6 TFSI engine performance
- Exceptional ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
- High-quality interior materials and build
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2019 Audi RS5, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
MMI infotainment system can experience freezing or rebooting issues, and various sensors (e.g., parking, blind spot, wheel speed) are prone to intermittent failure or require replacement. These are often costly to diagnose and repair due…
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve and associated oil separation system are known weaknesses in some VAG engines. Failure can lead to increased oil consumption, rough idling, check engine lights, and potentially turbocharger…
Given its performance nature, control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and especially adaptive dampers (e.g., Dynamic Ride Control - DRC) can wear prematurely or fail. DRC leaks are particularly expensive to fix, often requiring full unit rep…
2019 Audi RS5 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2019 Audi RS5 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the RS5 should still feel new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and inspecting high-wear items like brakes and tires, as performance driving can accelerate wear.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage brings critical preventative maintenance into focus. Neglecting scheduled services like transmission fluid changes here can lead to expensive future problems. Pay attention to engine and suspension components.
Elevated Risk Zone
Components that were showing minor wear before may now require attention. Adaptive suspension, further engine maintenance, and more complex electrical issues may begin to surface, leading to higher repair costs.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, the RS5 enters a phase where major component failures become more likely. Turbochargers, larger electrical modules, or internal drivetrain issues can arise, demanding significant investment.
2019 Audi RS5 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2019 Audi RS5 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$800-1,200
Moderate Repairs
$1,000-2,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2019 Audi RS5 Last?
Proactive and diligent maintenance, including frequent fluid checks and specialized diagnostics, is paramount to ensuring the long-term health and exhilarating performance of this high-strung machine. Do not defer scheduled services.
What 2019 Audi RS5 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Incredible performance, acceleration, and handling balance.
- Luxurious, high-quality interior with advanced technology.
- Superb Quattro all-wheel-drive traction in all weather conditions.
- Excellent daily drivability, comfortable enough for long trips.
Common Frustrations
- Very high cost of parts and specialized labor for maintenance and repairs.
- Occasional frustrating MMI/electrical glitches that require dealer attention.
- Stiff ride, especially on poorly maintained roads or with larger wheels.
- Significantly higher fuel consumption compared to standard A5/S5 models.
Who Should Buy the 2019 Audi RS5?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts who appreciate sophisticated German engineering and luxury.
- Drivers seeking a fast, luxurious, and capable daily driver with all-weather traction.
- Buyers with a substantial budget for premium maintenance, repairs, and insurance.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing low running costs.
- Owners who are prone to neglecting regular or specialized vehicle maintenance.
How the 2019 Audi RS5 Compares to Rivals
The RS5 is a strong competitor in the premium performance segment, offering a compelling blend of luxury, power, and AWD grip. Its reliability profile is typical for a complex German performance car, demanding consistent, quality maintenance to keep issues at bay.
More Reliable Than
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (initial model years)
- Older generation BMW M3/M4 (e.g., F80 for some engine reliability aspects)
- Mercedes-AMG C63 (some W204/W205 models for certain engine issues)
Comparable To
- Current generation BMW M3/M4 (G80/G82)
- Mercedes-AMG C63 (W206)
NHTSA Recalls
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
TIRES
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi RS5 Coupe vehicles. An incorrect positive battery terminal cover was installed.
What breaks on the 2019 Audi RS5?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Audi RS5 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Audi RS5. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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