WAULFAFR7DA0421842013 AUDI A5quattro Premium Plus
2013 AUDI A5 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 38 owner complaints include 3 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
2013 AUDI A5
2013 AUDI A5 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 38 owner complaints include 3 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 3 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- 3 injuries reported across 38 owner complaints
- Common owner-reported issues: steering issues, fire, overheating
- Engine/Powertrain is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- Engine or platform shared with models that have documented failure issues
- Manufacturer delayed recall by 4.1 years after first complaints — pattern of slow response to known defects
38 owner complaints filed — top areas: Engine/Powertrain (39%), Electrical (21%), Steering (21%). Common issues: steering issues, fire, overheating. 3 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- AUDI
- Model
- A5
- Year
- 2013
- Trim / Series
- quattro Premium Plus
- Body Style
- Coupe
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Drive Type
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 4-cyl 1.984000L 211 hp
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Doors
- 2
- Manufacturer
- AUDI AG
- Assembly
- INGOLSTADT, GERMANY
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Assembly Plant Quality
Plant: INGOLSTADT, GERMANY
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Engine recall
- ▸2 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: HVAC
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Engine/Powertrain
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
2.0L EA888 TSI: timing chain tensioner and water pump failures well-documented
Driver Assistance Features
ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database
Deferred Failure Risk
Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones
Owners of the 2013 AUDI A5 report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2013 AUDI A5 report electrical issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2013 AUDI A5 report steering issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
3 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 3 recalls is ~65%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
AUDI completes recalls at a fair rate (84%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~22 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~22 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Cabriolet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad and Q5 vehicles. Contact corrosion within the electrical connector for the auxiliary heater may cause the heater wires to overheat or melt.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 vehicles, 2013-2016 Audi Allroad and Audi A4 vehicles and 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can be blocked with debris from the cooling system, resulting in the pump overheating.Read full details...
~34% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Audi A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sedan and Audi Q5 vehicles, 2012-2015 Audi A6 vehicles and 2013-2016 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad vehicles. These vehicles, equipped with 2.0l Turbo FSI engines, have an electric coolant pump that can either become blocked with debris from the cooling system causing it to overheat or can short-circuit from moisture within the pump.Read full details...
~34% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix
RECALL DIDN'T FIX ITOwner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components
100% of complaints about "ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM" were filed AFTER recall campaign 17V002000 (2017-03-01) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.
Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.
Manufacturer Recall Response Time
Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance
First complaint was filed 4.1 years before the recall was issued — manufacturer was aware of this issue for years before acting.
3 injuries reported across 38 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.
Complaint Intelligence
38 complaints analyzed across 7 system categories
37% of complaints filed in Apr & Jul — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME38 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
Turned AC on blew out cool air all of sudden the air went out hot air blowing, smelt burning and saw smoke on passenger side (not a lot,but enough to raise concerns) turned AC shut climate off, turned car off tried it again no air just heat blowing. brother in law put it on machine , gave a sensor code, replaced sensor put a can of air in, still blowing out hot air. and if ran too long it will smoke and burning scent.
The contact owns a 2013 Audi A5. The contact stated that after activating the AC system, there was hot air and a burning odor coming from the passenger’s side vents. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V002000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact called an independent mechanic and referenced the recall campaign. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 157,653.
I was having an issue with my 2013 Audi A5 starting. A call to roadside assistance was able to jump my battery and the car would start and run. However, the same issue kept happening. The EPC warning light would come on and it took a few weeks to get scheduled with a mechanic. I purchased a mobile jump starter myself because I never knew when the car would or wouldn't start. After taking the car to Audi, they found the "transmission coolant valve failing internally causing coolant to migrate up connector - this is causing a short which is draining the battery. If not fixed it will continue to deplete the batter. Recommend replacing valve and and connector". [2023 Audi Inspection Report.pdf] This was verified by another mechanic who did the work and shared the faulty, corroded transmission pump connector and leaking valve. [photo: 2023 Corroded connector Transmission Coolant Valve.jpg; 2023 Transmission Coolant Valuve and connector.jpg] I won't speculate about the potential outcomes of such a failure, but I was told by my mechanic before I brought it in that I should no longer jump the car, because if what Audi found was correct, I could at minimum cause a full failure of the car's electrical system or a fire could start and recommended that I tow the car in for repair, which is what I did. An internet search shows this isn't a unique or isolated issue. Audi owners over the past 7+ years have been experiencing the same issue with the transmission coolant seeping into electrical components, causing shorts and electrical problems like mine. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] This pump and its proximity to electrical components is a dangerous risk to drivers not aware that what appears as a simple dead battery, could in fact be one jump start away from disaster. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Couple years ago my engine failed, it was recalled and company refused to pay for it. I payed for it and afterwards my radio modul failed, camera failed, the check engine light is on since I bought the car and recently my car stopped on the highway fast lane without warning. It was no shoulder and I stopped on the highway. I was lucky I didn’t get rear ended n killed
I have experienced several failures and 3 recalls with my vehicle since I purchased it brand new. I have paid out thousands of dollars over the years for repairs that I feel were faulty being that I am on the only owner of the vehicle. I have approximately a little under 75k miles on my vehicle although I purchased in 2012 (2013 vehicle) only to take it to dealerships and pay for this and that but most recently my major complaint is my car has stopped on me 4 times and I paid originally for what the dealership stated was the problem only to take it back 3 times and now they state the FUEL PUMP is the problem and there is no recalls. Audi is known to have recalls on FUEL PUMPs but at this time do not reflect on my vehicle. However, my car has not been in an accident, I am the only owner, the mileage is under 100k and there is no explanation as to why the fuel pump needs replacing. Please look into this. Thank you.
Water pump leaking
The contact's cousin owns a 2013 Audi A5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle began to overheat. The warning message "Pull Over and Check Coolant" was displayed. The contact veered to the side of the road and upon checking the coolant reservoir, the contact noticed that the coolant was leaking. The contact added coolant and was able to continue driving. However, the failure reoccurred increasingly. The contact stated that the coolant would leak onto the ground while refilling the coolant reservoir. The contact stated that the vehicle was no longer drivable. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V229000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. However, as the contact's friend was picking up the vehicle on his behalf, he noticed that there was no coolant in the vehicle. The dealer then added coolant however, the failure recurred while driving. The dealer was notified and advised the contact that the failure was not associated with the recall. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where the coolant pump sensor was replaced; however, the failure recurred a month later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as the dealer had already marked the recall as completed. Additionally, the contact stated that the interior lights of the vehicle would fail to operate intermittently. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
About 3 weeks ago I noticed the beginning of a steering problem. I first noticed that the wheel seemed to require more than normal force to turn, especially in about the 10 and 2 o’clock position. It would behave pretty normally most of the time, but then, unpredictably, this would happen. Now it seems to be pretty constant. The steering wheel now requires much more force than usual, but only when in certain positions. Otherwise, everything appears normal. A couple of days ago I needed to try an evasive maneuver, which required sudden, hard steering. However, the response of the car was not what I expected under similar conditions with other Audi’s I own. This is an obvious safety concern. There appears to be a repair bulletin by Audi, but only Audis that are still under warranty will be fixed for free by Audi. I strongly believe this is a serious safety issue that deserves a safety recall of all affected Audi’s, and repair at Audi expense.
THERE'S 1000S OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE AND AUDI GROUP THREADS REPORTING AND EXPERIENCING POWER STEERING LOSS OF POWER OR STIFFNESS WHILE DRIVING, MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER CAR MODELS INCLUDE 2013 A4,A5, S5,A6, Q5, SQ5. AUDI KNOWS THE PROBLEM BUT HAVE NOT CORRECTED OR RECALL ONLY THE 2018 SQ5 NO OTHER VEHICLES WITH ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING. DEALERS EVEN ARE AWARE OF ISSUE. AUDI SAYS IT COULD A STEERING SENSOR, BUT HAVE NOT OFFERED REMEDY. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE CORRECTED IMMEDIATELY BEFORE LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO ACCIDENT.
GOING DOWN HILL, ACCELERATING, RED LIGHT, APPLY BRAKES, HARD, ENGINE REVS UP TRYING TO OVER POWER BRAKES, BARELY STOPS, BUT ENGINE KEEPS ON CREEPING CAR FORWARD INTO TRAFFIC, MOVE SHIFTER TO PARK AND REVERSE TWICE, ENGINE SLOWS DOWN BUT ACCELERATES AGAIN WHEN BACK IN DRIVE, LIGHT CHANGES, DRIVE AWAY WITH NO PROBLEMS.
TL* THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS SON OWNS A 2013 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND NOT RUNNING, IT CRASHED INTO A FENCE WITHOUT WARNING ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. THERE WERE NO FIRE, REPORTED INJURIES OR POLICE REPORT FILED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED IN REGARDS TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
THE SUNROOF EXPLODED. I WAS DRIVING AND HEARD A LOUD NOISE. I LOOK AROUND BECAUSE IT SOUNDED LIKE A TIRE BLOWOUT. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE, AND ONCE I REACHED MY DESTINATION, STOPPED AND OPENED THE DOOR TO EXIT THE VEHICLE, I HEARD A LOUD POP LIKE A GUN SHOT. IMMEDIATELY GLASS FLEW EVERYWHERE. I WAS LOCATED IN THE PARKING LOT OF PICADILLY RESTAURANT WHEN THE EXPLOSION OCCURRED.
THERE IS AN INTERMITTANT FAULT WITH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CHANGE OVER FLAP, IT'S STICKING. REPLACEMENT WOULD BE $1311.56 BEFORE TAX. IT APPEARS TO BE WORKING OK NOW, BUT IT COULD FAIL IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
LOSS OF POWER WHILE DRIVING. I WAS DRIVING AND THE CAR LOST POWER AND STARTED SHUDDERING, EPC WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND IT SEEMED LIKE IT MIGHT STALL. SINCE I WAS DRIVING I PUSHED IN THE CLUTCH AND COASTED TO A STOP. I SHUT IT OFF AND RESTARTED IT AND IT WORKED NORMALLY SO I DROVE HOME. I DROVE IT THE NEXT DAY AND HAD NO PROBLEMS. ON A FOLLOWING DAY IT DID THE SAME THING, LOSS OF POWER, SHAKING, NOT WORKING RIGHT. SOMETIMES IT SEEMED JUST FINE OTHER TIMES IT HAD PROBLEMS. I TOOK IT TO A SHOP TO HAVE DIAGNOSIS AND THEY DISCOVERED WATER IN THE ENGINE COMPUTER CONNECTOR AND TRACED IT TO A COOLING VALVE LEAK THAT ALLOWS WATER IN THE CONNECTOR AT THE VALVE TO ENTER THE 2 WIRE CONNECTOR AND APPARENTLY THE WATER WICKS UP THE CONTROL WIRE TO THE COMPUTER CONNECTOR AND SHORTS OUT CONNECTIONS TO COILS AND OTHER ENGINE ELECTRONICS. I SEARCHED THE WEB FOR INFORMATION AND DISCOVERED THAT THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE THAT HAS AFFECTED 2010 - 2013 AUDI A8 AND THE CAR WAS RECALLED. SEE 16V619000. I'M WONDERING WHY MY 2013 A5 THAT HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM WAS NOT RECALLED. I HAVE PICTURE OF THE ENGINE COMPUTER SHOWING WATER THAT WAS IN THE CONNECTOR AND PIN 35 IS GREEN. THE 2 WIRE CONNECTOR WAS REMOVED FROM THE VALVE AND HAS ISSUES, IT IS CONNECTED TO PIN 35 OF THE ECM
THE VEHICLE SUFFERED COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE AT 52,000 MILES. ON MAY 05'19 THE CAR WAS RUNNING SMOOTHLY AT PREVAILING HIGHWAY SPEED WHEN I STARTED TO HEAR THE SOUND OF MARBLES RATTLING AROUND IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. PULLED OVER, AND THEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOWED TO AUDI BURLINGTON, AND THE $159 DIAGNOSTIC THE FOLLOWING MORNING MAY 06'19 RESULTED IN A VOICE MAIL THAT SAID IN PART "CAR ENGINE IS BLOWN, THE COST WILL BE $11,000, PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU'D LIKE TO DO". THEY ALSO SUGGESTED I COULD TRY TO GET AUDI OF AMERICA TO ASSIST SO I OPENED A TICKET WITH THEM ON MAY 07'19 (REFERENCE NUMBER IS 190452228). THE SERVICE HISTORY IS INTACT BUT NEITHER AUDI OF AMERICA NOR AUDI BURLINGTON (MA) DEALERSHIP WILL ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR. INSTEAD, BOTH AOA AND THE DEALER HAVE CHOSEN TO DEMONIZE THE SERVICE HISTORY BECAUSE THE PRIOR OWNER MAY HAVE MISSED A REQUIRED ANNUAL VISIT AND BECAUSE THE 35K SERVICE WAS NOT DONE AT THEIR DEALERSHIP. WHEN I ASK WHAT SERVICE ELEMENT WOULD HAVE IDENTIFIED AND PREVENTED A BLOWN ENGINE AT 52,000 MILES, THE SERVICE MANAGER AT AUDI BURLINGTON RESPONDED WITH "A MILLION THINGS COULD GO WRONG IF YOU DON'T HAVE THE RECOMMENDED SERVICE". BY THE WAY, A PERFECT SERVICE HISTORY WOULD BE NO GUARANTEE OF ASSISTANCE AS I LEARNED TEN YEARS AGO WHEN MY AUDI TT BLEW UP - I HAD TO WAIT 5 YEARS FOR THE CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT TO PAY FOR THAT REPAIR. IT'S BEEN THREE WEEKS AND I HAVE YET TO RECEIVE A CALLBACK FROM AUDI ON THE CASE I OPENED WITH THEM BACK ON MAY 05'19. THE DEALER IS HOUNDING ME TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO BECAUSE MY CAR IS TAKING UP PRECIOUS SPACE ON HIS PROPERTY.
19N4 RECALL FOR ELECTRIC AFTER RUN COOLANT PUMP. AUDI HAS FAILED TO COMPLETE THE REPAIRS.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V229000 (ENGINE) WAS RECEIVED IN JUNE OF 2018. AFTER CONTACTING THE LOCAL DEALER (AUDI WEST HOUSTON, 15865 KATY FREEWAY, HOUSTON, TX), THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE DEFECT WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
I JUST HAD MY FUEL DOOR ACTUATOR REPLACED ON MY 2013 AUDI A5 WITH LESS THAN 44,500 MILES ON IT IN SEPTEMBER 2018. I AM HAVING A VERY DIFFICULT TIME UNDERSTANDING WHY MY FUEL DOOR ACTUATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACE WITH SO LOW MILEAGE. THE CAR HAS A RANGE OF 455 MILES AFTER A FILL UP THE PART COST $405.85 INCLUDING A SHIPPING CHARGE. THIS MEANS IT COST ME $4.17 TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE LID AFTER A FILL UP. MY ARGUMENT IS THAT THE PART WAS DEFECTIVE AND IT SHOULD BE REPLACED FOR FREE. I SENT THE PART BACK TO AUDI FOR REVIEW. AUDI DECLINE TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBLITY FOR THE DEFECTIVE PART. HOWEVER, I AM NOT FINISH WITH THIS CASE. I SENT AND EMAIL TO THE CEO OF VOLKSWAGEN IN NORTH AMERICA AND GERMANY IN REGARD TO THIS ISSUE. I AM WAITING FOR A REPLY I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF OTHER PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THEIR CAR OVER THIS ISSUE. IN ADDICTION, MY CAR HAS BEEN RECALLED FOR WATER PUMP ISSUES AS WELL. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP THREE TIMES. THE CAR IS BEING RECALLED AGAIN IN REGARD TO THE WATER PUMP. THE WORK TO REPAIR IT REQUIRES IT TO BE DONE IN TWO STAGES. THIS MEANS FIVE WATER PUMP ISSUES. WHEN DOES A RECALL BECOME EXCESSIVE OVER THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS NONSENSE!
IN SEP 2016 MY 2013 AUDI A5 STARTED SMOKING AND OVERHEATING WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. I DROVE MY CAR HOME AND SEARCHED FOR A REPUTABLE AUTO SHOP IN MY CITY THAT I DROVE MY CAR TO. MY VEHICLE WAS ANALYZED AND INSPECTED TO FIND OUT THAT THE COOLANT/WATERPUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, WHICH MY CAR WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. AT THIS MOMENT I JUST LEFT MY CAR AT THIS AUTO REPAIR SHOP AS IT WAS MY ONLY VEHICLE AND NEEDED REPAIRED ASAP. WITHIN THE LAST YEAR AND VERY RECENTLY THEIR HAVE BEEN MANY RECALLS RELATIVE TO OVERHEATING COOLANT/WATER PUMP ISSUES CAUSING OVERHEATING AND POSSIBLY SET ON FIRE. I HAD IT REPAIRED AT THE AUTO SHOP, WHICH COSTED ME NEARLY $1200! I FOUND THIS ABSURD AS MY VEHICLE WAS ONLY 3.5 YEARS OLD WITH AN OVERHEATING PROBLEM. IS THERE ANY WAY I CAN GET THIS RESEARCHED AND REIMBURSED BY THE MANUFACTURE AS MY ISSUE HAPPENED PRIOR TO RECALLS WERE PUBLISHED? I HAVE ATTACHED A REPAIR INVOICE FOR YOUR REVIEW. THANK YOU.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V229000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AUDI TUSLA (4208 S MEMORIAL DR, TUSLA, OK) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY UNTIL 2019. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AUDI SAFETY RECALL 19N4 CONTINUES TO NOT BE AVAILABLE. RECEIVED FIRST NOTICE FOR RECALL IN JUNE 2018. STATES THERE IS A SAFETY ISSUE WITH AFTER RUN COOLANT PUMP. STATES THAT THIS DEFECT MAY CAUSE A FIRE EVEN IF CAR IS NOT TURNED ON AND RECOMMENDS TO PARK THE VEHICLE OUTSIDE AS A PRECAUTION. THIS SOUNDS VERY DANGEROUS. TODAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2018, THE DEALER INFORMED ME THAT THE FIX FOR THE DEFECT IS STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND THERE IS NO DATE. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT DRIVING THIS CAR AND PARKING IT IN OR NEAR THE HOUSE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V229000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT A SECOND NOTICE WOULD BE SENT WHEN THE PART BECAME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2013 AUDI A5. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO CORRODED ELECTRICAL HARNESS. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ELECTRICAL HARNESS CORRODED DUE TO A LEAKING GASKET. *JS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 AUDI A5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V229000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (AUDI SUGAR LAND, 10330 US-90 ALT, SUGAR LAND, TX 77478) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE PART WOULD BE AVAILABLE IN JANUARY OF 2019. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
MY A5 COUPE WAS AFFECTED RECALL 17V622. I BOOKED AN APPOINTMENT MONTHS AGO WITH SILVER SPRING AUDI. THAT APPOINTMENT WAS CANCELLED DUE TO THE DEALERSHIP NOT HAVING THE PARTS TO ADDRESS THE RECALL. I'VE CALLED MULTIPLE TIMES TO TRY TO RESCHEDULE BUT THE PARTS REMAIN UNAVAILABLE. THE DEALERSHIP, TODAY, TRIED TO DISCOURAGE ME FROM BEING ADDED TO A WAIT LIST FOR THE PART GIVEN THAT OVER 100 PEOPLE WERE ALREADY ON THE LIST. (THAT DISCOURAGEMENT MADE NO SENSE TO ME. IT SEEMS LIKE EVERYONE AFFECTED BY THE RECALL WHO USES THAT DEALERSHIP SHOULD BE ON THE WAITING LIST WITHOUT EVEN HAVING TO CALL IN.)
I HAVE JUST BECOME AWARE, ON MY OWN ACCORD, THAT THE USED 2013 AUDI A5 I PURCHASED HAS A SAFETY RECALL ISSUED OCTOBER OF THIS YEAR. I NEED TO BE ADVISED ON WHAT COURSE OF ACTION NEEDS TO BE TAKEN FROM THIS POINT. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
NHTSA RECALL 17V-002 COOLING PUMP OVERHEATING. ON FRIDAY MAY 26, 2017 ON ARE ABOUT 0645 I RECEIVED A CALL FROM THE BASE POLICE STATING THAT MY CAR WAS ON FIRE IN THE PARKING LOT. I HAD BEEN AT WORK SINCE 0600 THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS OF ANY PROBLEMS WHILE DRIVING TO WORK NO DASHBOARD LIGHTS WERE ON MY CAR WAS DUE FOR OIL CHANGE 71222.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 AUDI A5. WHILE PARKED AT HOME, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD WHERE IT WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A YEAR LATER, THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V002000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE REPRESENTATIVE THAT, DUE TO THEM BEING REIMBURSED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY, AUDI ABSOLVED THEMSELVES OF ALL RESPONSIBILITY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT PROVIDED. UPDATED 06/22/17*LJ
VEHICLE INVOLVED IN ACCIDENT-COLLISION WITH A LIGHT POLE HEAD ON AIR BAG DID NOT INFLATE - CAR A TOTAL LOSS. DRIVER SUFFERED INJURIES. UPDATED 06/29/17*LJ *CN
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR IN THE FREEWAY IN SACRAMETO GOING TO ARDEN MALL AND AS I WAS EXITING GOING ABOUT 30 MPH OFF THE RAMP I HEARD A VERY LOUD BANG SOUND AND AS I LOOKED UP I NOTICED MY SUN ROOF (IN THE CLOSED POSITION) WAS CRACKED WITH THE MIDDLE OF THE GLASS WARPING IN AND EVENTUALLY SHATTERED FALLING ALL OVER ME AND THE INTERIOR AS I KEPT DRIVING. I'VE HEARD OF THE A8 AND Q5 MODELS HAVING SIMILAR ISSUES (AND ACTUALLY BEING RECALLED ONE YEAR) SO THIS OUT A THOUGHT IN MY HEAD. AFTER DOING RESEARCH ONLINE THERE WERE MANY AUDI VEHICLES WITH VARIOUS MODELS HAVING THE EXACT SAME ISSUE AS ME.. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO INFORM OF THIS INCIDENT AND THEY STATED IT WAS MOST LIKELY A ROCK WHICH I SAID CAN'T BE POSSIBLE AS THERE WAS NOBODY NEAR THE AREA I WAS IN. ALL IN ALL THEY SAID THIS WOULD HAVE TO COME OUT OF MY OWN POCKET AS IT IS NOT COVERED IN MY MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY. I DON'T THINK I SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS AS I DID NOTHING WRONG BUT DRIVE THE CAR. AND SEEMS AS IF MANY OTHER AUDI DRIVERS HAD SIMILAR ISSUES SO IT SEEMS TO BE TO BE A DEFECTIVE GLASS.
THE SUN VISOR ON MY A5 HAS VERY LITTLE SPRING TENSION THAT ALLOWS IT TO FREELY MOVE BACK AND FORTH. I NEED TO HAVE IT CLIPPED WHEN ACCELERATING OTHERWISE IT WILL HIT ME IN THE FACE OR HOLD IT WHILE MAKING LEFT TURNS (WHEN POSITIONED BY THE DRIVER'S WINDOW ' THERE IS NO CLIP THERE) TO PREVENT IT FROM STRIKING ME IN THE SIDE OF MY HEAD. THIS PRESENTS A DISTRACTION AND POSSIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. THE SUN VISOR CLIP'S DURABILITY IS ALSO QUESTIONABLE SINCE IT HAS ALREADY BEEN REPLACED AT LEAST 2 TIMES. I HAVE MADE REPEATED VISITS TO THE DEALER ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND THEY HAVE DEEMED IT OPERATING AS INTENDED. I HAVE EVEN WRITTEN AUDI ABOUT IT AND THEY HAVE ALSO REFUSED TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE.
WHILE APPROACHING A TURN I SLOWED DOWN , ANOTHER CAR CAME AROUND THE RIGHT SIDE. MY CAR WASN'T RESOONDING I WASN'T ABLE TO BEAR RIGHT AROUND CURVE AND WENT ACROSS ROAD AND UP HILL. APPROACHING HILL FELT LIKE I DIDN'T HAVE POWER STEERING, I TOOK 2 HANDS AND GRABBED THE STEERING WHEEL AND FORCED MYSELF TO GO DOWN , BRAKES SEEMED USELESS.. CAR WENT DOWN HILL. I PUT FOOT ON MY BRAKE BECAUSE I WAS IN HEAD ON TRAFFIC ON A SMALL BACK ROAD. I THEN PUT CAR IN REVERSES, IT JERKED BACK TO STRAIGHTEN CAR UP, AND STRAIGHTEN UP CAR- DROVE UP TO LIGHT SHAKEN UP, PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER - NO SHOULDER THE BACK ROAD AT IT WAS ABOUT 10 PM WEEKNIGHT... I LOOKED AT THE DRIVERS FRONT END THAT MADE CONTACT AND IT LOOKED OK- JUST SCRAPES... I DROVE HOME AND WOKE UP TO FLAT TIRES IN AM. I TOOK MY CAR TO AUDI TURNERSVILLE- AUTOMALL. I TOLD THEM OF SAFETY CONCERNS- THEY FINALLY ON WEDNESDAY RAN A SCAN- NO TPMS ILLUMINATED OR DEFUALT LIGHT- I WAS LIED TO AND TOLD IT DID, UNTIL I ASKED TO SEE REPORT. SERVICE DEPT. TIGHTEN MY DRIVERS DOOR THAT WAS LOOSENED BY IMPACT BEFORE INS COMPANY SAW THE CAR. AUDI CORP SENT A ENGINEER AND I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD GO OVER MY REPORT AND CONCERNS, I WAS TREATED HORRIBLE BY DEALERSHIP, THEY WORKED ON MY CAR WITHOUT CALLING ME FIRST, TIRED TO REMOVE CAR FROM DEALERSHIP TO TAKE TO ANOTHER COLLISON CENTER AND I WAS TOLD IT WAS ALREADY ON THE LIFT AND AUDI WOULD BE THERE FOR MY SAFETY CONCERNS ON MONDAY/ I NEVER AUTHORIZED AUDI TO LOOK AT MY CAR- I WAS TOLD. I WAS GIVEN A HAND TYPED REPORT - 2 DAYS AGO THAT MY CAR IS SAFE... ONLY MALFUNCTION CODE TPMS CAME ON IN APRIL. AUDI WOULD ALLOW ME TO SPEAK TO THE AUDI REP WHILE HE WAS HERE FROM MICHIGAN AND STILL HAS REFUSED TO ANSWER MY CONCERNS ON THE ORIGINAL 26 PAGE REPORT I HAVE FROM SERVICE, MY IGNITION KEY STICKS OCCASIONALLY , MY REAR BACK UP CAMERA DELAYS AT TIMES- DEFAULT FOUND DRIVERS HEAD RESTRAINT ???
WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL, THERE ARE SPOTS THAT SEEM TO STICK AROUND THE 11 AND 1 O CLOCK MARKS. THIS PROBLEM COMES AND GOES, INDEPENDENT OF SPEED. NOW THE CAR SEEMS TO HAVE TROUBLE CORRECTING OUT OF A TURN AND MUST BE MANUALLY TURNED BACK TO CENTER. THE PROBLEMS SEEM TO BE GETTING WORSE.
VEHICLE IS DIFFICULT TO STEER AT ALL SPEEDS--PROBLEM CAN BE INTERMITTENT OR PERSISTENT--MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO ANTICIPATE ABILITY TO NAVIGATE A TURN. THE STEERING WHEEL RESISTS EFFORT TO TURN AND DOES NOT CORRECT OUT OF A TURN UNLESS MANUALLY PULLED BACK. *TR
I WAS SENT A RECALL NOTICE FOR DEFECTIVE AIRBAGS. I LIVE ON NANTUCKET ISLAND AND THERE ARE NOT AUDI DEALERSHIPS HERE. I HAVE TO PUT MY CAR ON A FERRY IN ORDER TO GET THE AIRBAG PROBLEM CORRECTED. THE COST WAS 160 DOLLARS AND AUDI SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT AS IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME TO HAVE THE CAR SERVICED WITH OUT GETTING TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
THIS IS MY SECOND CONTACT WITH YOU. FIRST GAVE ME REFERENCE #10503984. THERE ARE "DEAD" SPOTS IN THE MAGNETIC POWER STEERING. THIS "FEELING" HAS OCCURRED FROM 25MPH ON UP PAST INTERSTATE SPEEDS (70). THE PROBLEM INITIALLY OCCURRED FROM THE 11 TO 1 O'CLOCK POSITIONS WHERE THE STEERING WHEEL CAN BE MOVED RIGHT TO LEFT WITH NO RESPONSE TO THE CAR. PROBLEM HAS PERSISTED AND NOW OCCURS AT OTHER POINTS IN THE STEERING MOTION. CONTACT WITH AUDI USA CUSTOMER SERVICE HAS ONLY PRODUCED RESPONSE FROM AUDI OF "WORK WITH YOUR DEALER". AUDI DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THIS AS A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT I AM FAILING TO UNDERSTAND HOW A "STEERING" ISSUED CAN NOT BE SAFETY RELATED. NOW THAT THE PROBLEM IS WORSENING, ONE HAS AN UNEASY FEELING DRIVING THE CAR. *TR
WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE BECOMES A "DEAD" SPOT IN THE STEERING INPUT. STEERING WHEEL CAN BE MOVED 2-3 INCHES RIGHT TO LEFT WITH NO EFFECT ON THE STEERING OF THE CAR ITSELF. THESE INCIDENTS ARE UNPREDICTABLE IN WHEN THEY OCCUR AND HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCED FROM SPEEDS AROUND 30 MPH TO OVER 70 MILES PER HOUR. IN CONTACTING MY DEALER THEY SAID AUDI USA IS AWARED OF PROBLEM. IT HAS OCCURED ON A5,A4, AND ALLROAD MODELS FOR SURE. PRESENTLY DEALERS ARE ONLY MAKING A LIST OF COMPLAINTS AND SAYING AUDI IS "WORKING" ON THE PROBLEM. AUDI USA REPRESENTATIVE TOLD ME ON THE PHONE TODAY THAT AUDI DOE NOT CONSIDER THIS A SAFETY ISSUE. HOW CAN MOVING A STEERING WHEEL WITH NO EFFECT ON THE DYNAMICS NOT BE A SAFETY ISSUE? *TR
AT 1500 MILES I DEVELOPED A NOTCHY FEELING IN MY STEERING WHEEL AT THE 12 O'CLOCK POSITION. THIS NOTCHY FEEL CREATES A NEED FOR CONSTANT CORRECTION JUST TO KEEP THE VEHICLE TRAVELING IN A STRAIGHT PATH. I BELIEVE THIS IS THE RESULT OF THE NEW ELECTROMECHANICAL STEERING THAT AUDI IMPLEMENTED IN 2013 MODELS. THIS PROBLEM IS IMPACTING MANY DRIVERS ACROSS ALL MODEL LINES AND I FEEL THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. I WILL ALSO NOTE THAT THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT ISSUE THAT IS NOT PREVALENT EACH DAY, HOWEVER MY ABILITY TO KEEP MY CAR TRAVELING IN A STRAIGHT PATH IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE WHEN THE ISSUE ARISES. AT INTERSTATE SPEEDS IT CREATES A SENSATION THAT YOU DO NOT HAVE CONTROL OF YOUR VEHICLE. I HAVE REPORTED THIS ISSUE TO AUDI OF AMERICA AND HAVE RECEIVED NO RESPONSE OR FOLLOW UP. I HAVE ALSO HAD MY VEHICLE LOOKED AT BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY ARE REPORTING THAT THE VEHICLE IS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY. THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BEFORE AN ACCIDENT OR FATALITY OCCURS AS A RESULT OF FAULTY STEERING COMPONENTS. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO READ THE CONCERNS OF OTHER OWNERS. HTTP://WWW.AUDIZINE.COM/FORUM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP/513862-STEERING-ISSUES-2013. *TR
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 38 total NHTSA complaints filed over 12 years, with the worst year being 2018 (9 complaints).
The amber reliability line averaged 96/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 89/100 in 2017.
The red dashed lines mark recall issuance — the first recall came 4 years after owners began filing complaints, a lag that indicates the manufacturer was slow to formally acknowledge these problems.
Red dots on the amber line flag 3 years (2015, 2017, 2020) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Manufacturer Extended Warranties & Special Coverage
1 known program match this vehicle — verify current eligibility with dealer using your VIN
EA888 Gen 1 and Gen 2 2.0T TSI engines suffer from premature timing chain wear caused by a faulty chain tensioner. The symptom is a rattling noise on cold start. VW and Audi extended coverage for the timing chain system and issued revised parts under Technical Service Action 23BE.
Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $34,614 (~$577/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2013 AUDI A5 — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Auction History
Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators
Searching Public Auction Records
Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for WAULFAFR7DA042184. Results appear automatically when found.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | WAULFAFR7DA042184 |
| Model Year | 2013 |
| Make | AUDI |
| Model | A5 |
| Trim | quattro Premium Plus |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Coupe |
| Doors | 2 |
| Drive Type | AWD/All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Automatic |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement (L) | 1.984000 |
| Horsepower | 211 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | AUDI AG |
| Assembly City | INGOLSTADT |
| Assembly Country | GERMANY |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | WAU |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 7 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | D |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | A |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 042184 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 3 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 38 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 8/1/2026, 9:54:37 AM.