Audi A5 8F/8T 3.0 TDI, 240 PS, 6-speed automatic, all-wheel drive (2008–2009)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Audi A5 8T/8F (2007-2016): known problems and buying guide

  Check oil use and chain proof first, then the gearbox. Avoid a 2.0 TFSI that burns oil with no repair proof.

• Gearbox guide ZF 6HP 6-speed automatic (BMW Steptronic, Audi tiptronic): problems, costs and what to check

  A workable six-speed when its fluid is changed on time, but mechatronic and bushing wear recur. Buy with service proof and a clean scan.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. On a multitronic, drive from cold and at town speed. Shuddering, jerking or overheating is a warning sign. A scanner reads the gearbox fault codes.
2. On a 3.0 TDI, ask for EGR and particulate filter records. Look for oil leaks around the EGR cooler and water pump. Ask how often the car was used on short trips.
3. Open and close every window. Listen for snaps or grinding from the regulators. Auto Express gives GBP 120 for a new regulator from Audi.
4. Listen for groaning when turning. Check the front wheel bearings and shock absorbers on a lift.
5. Check the brake hoses. They wear out with age. Check them from about seven years old.
6. Check open recall campaigns for the car by VIN before you buy.

From the gearbox guide

1. Read the fault memory with ISTA or a BMW or Audi scanner. Bad result: BMW codes 4F85, 4F8F or 4F83, or a past limp mode. A scanner is needed.
2. Ask for fluid and pan service records. Bad result: no change in the last 60,000 to 100,000 km, or no adaptation reset afterwards. Dirty oil adds to mechatronic wear.
3. Drive 15 minutes in town, then under load. Bad result: slipping, flaring, or jerks on 2-3 and 3-4.
4. Hold a steady light throttle at 60 to 80 km/h. Bad result: a shudder or vibration, which points to the torque converter lock-up clutch.
5. Drive under load in 4th and 5th. Bad result: slip under load or jerks on shift, which points to worn bushings.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions