2021 Audi RS5 Reliability ReportKeepScore 82/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2021 Audi RS5
- Outscores the 2019 Audi RS5 by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: advanced electrical/infotainment (moderate severity).
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:rear/other:retractor.
2021 Audi RS5: Buy or Avoid?
The 2021 Audi RS5 is a remarkably capable and generally well-built performance machine, offering exhilarating driving dynamics with typical Audi luxury. While its core powertrain is robust, potential buyers must budget for the higher cost of parts, specialized maintenance, and potential electrical complexities inherent in a sophisticated German performance vehicle. It's a solid choice, but requires a diligent owner to mitigate running costs.
The 2021 Audi RS5 is a fantastic performance coupe or Sportback that delivers on all fronts: power, luxury, and technology. While its core mechanicals are surprisingly robust for a performance car, the associated ownership costs for specialized maintenance, high-performance wear items, and potential electrical compo…
Best Model Years
2020-2024 (B9.5 generation)
Years to Avoid
None specifically within the current B9/B9.5 generation; early 2018 B9 models had some minor initial teething issues that were quickly resolved.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust EA839 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 engine
- Excellent ZF 8-speed Tiptronic transmission
- Superior interior quality and ergonomic design
2021 Audi RS5 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2021 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.
Modern Audi MMI systems, various sensors (parking, ADAS, oxygen), and complex wiring harnesses can experience intermittent glitches or outright failures, often requiring specialized dealer diagnostics and expensive component replacement.…
The RS5's powerful brakes, especially if carbon-ceramics are equipped, wear through pads and rotors much faster than a standard vehicle. Replacements are extremely expensive, with even standard steel rotors costing significantly more tha…
While the core EA839 V6 is strong, peripheral components like the PCV valve, water pump, and various gaskets/seals can develop leaks or failures over time, particularly as mileage accumulates. Early reports on the EA839 suggest a potenti…
2021 Audi RS5 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2021 Audi RS5 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most vehicles are still within their original warranty period and have minimal wear. Focus is on routine maintenance and addressing any initial minor electrical gremlins.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the end of the factory warranty. Expect significant scheduled maintenance, including brake service, spark plugs, and potentially some fluid flushes. Suspension component inspection becomes more critical.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond the typical warranty period, this is where more significant wear items may require attention. Cooling system components, more extensive suspension work, and potential engine accessory issues can surface.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, nearly all components have significant wear. Major engine or transmission repairs become a possibility, and comprehensive preventative maintenance is crucial to avoid expensive failures.
2021 Audi RS5 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2021 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
$1,000-3,000 annually (for brakes, suspension components, or electrical sensors) depending on usage
How Long Does the 2021 Audi RS5 Last?
Focus on vehicles with comprehensive service records. Lower mileage (under 40,000 miles) examples are preferable to maximize the remaining factory warranty and minimize immediate major service costs. High mileage examples should only be considered if a full, recent major service has been completed.
What 2021 Audi RS5 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Blistering acceleration and confident all-weather grip with Quattro AWD.
- Beautifully crafted interior with high-quality materials and excellent ergonomics.
- Comfortable enough for daily driving despite its performance credentials.
- Understated yet aggressive styling that avoids overt flamboyance.
Common Frustrations
- High ongoing maintenance and repair costs, particularly for wear items like brakes and tires.
- Firm ride quality, especially with optional Dynamic Ride Control, can be jarring on poor roads.
- Significant fuel consumption, especially when driven enthusiastically.
- Rear seat space is limited, making it less practical for adult passengers on longer trips.
Who Should Buy the 2021 Audi RS5?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts who daily drive and appreciate a sophisticated, all-weather capable luxury car.
- Buyers prioritizing interior quality and technological features alongside outright speed.
- Individuals seeking a more understated performance car compared to rivals like the C63 or M3.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing absolute lowest running costs.
- Families needing ample rear passenger room or frequent cargo hauling space.
How the 2021 Audi RS5 Compares to Rivals
The RS5 holds its own against key German rivals, often offering a slightly more understated and all-weather usable package due to its excellent Quattro system. While not as bulletproof as some Japanese alternatives, its overall reliability is strong for a high-performance luxu…
More Reliable Than
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (due to fewer electrical gremlins)
- Mercedes-AMG C63 (comparable reliability, but RS5's Quattro is often preferred by owners in varied conditions)
Comparable To
- BMW M3/M4 (G80/G82 generation, similar performance and ownership costs)
- Porsche Cayman S (different class, but similar reliability profile for a German performance car)
Safety Recalls on the 2021 Audi RS5
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
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.
What breaks on the 2021 Audi RS5?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Audi RS5 — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Audi RS5. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2021s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2021 Audi RS5
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Frequently Asked Questions
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