Is the Audi S5 model year 2019 (2017-2023) reliable in Australia?

This generation is summarized with a trust score of 70 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.

Which Audi S5 model year 2019 configuration should I buy used?

3.0L TFSI V6 (EA839) with 8-speed ZF Automatic: Strong and responsive engine with good power delivery Smooth, robust, and generally reliable 8-speed ZF automatic transmission

Which Audi S5 model year 2019 configurations should I avoid?

All configurations (general ownership considerations): Higher cost of parts and specialized labor for repairs and maintenance Potential for electrical gremlins, particularly with infotainment systems or sensors, requiring dealer diagnostics

What should I inspect on a used Audi S5 model year 2019?

Infotainment system glitches, software bugs, or MMI control issues Premature wear of suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings) on rough roads or with aggressive driving Potential for oil leaks from various seals (e.g., valve cover, timing cover) as the vehicle accumulates mileage PCV valve issues, while less common on the EA839 than older engines, can still be a point of failure

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REPORT: AUDI > S5 > MODEL YEAR 2019 (2017-2023)

Used car reliability snapshot for Australia: Audi S5 model year 2019 (2017-2023). Compare recommended configurations, known weak points, and inspection priorities before you buy.

Vehicle background from retrieved sources

The B9 generation Audi S5 (8W6) represents a significant update, featuring the new EA839 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine, replacing the supercharged V6 of the previous generation. It offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology in Coupe, Sportback, and Cabriolet body styles.

Generation / series codes: 8W6, B9

Body styles: Coupe, Sportback, Cabriolet

Drivetrains: 3.0L TFSI V6, 8-speed automatic, Quattro AWD

Trust score: 70 / 100

Verdict: RECOMMENDED

RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATIONS (THE 'BUY' LIST)

3.0L TFSI V6 (EA839) with 8-speed ZF Automatic
- Strong and responsive engine with good power delivery
- Smooth, robust, and generally reliable 8-speed ZF automatic transmission
- Excellent all-weather traction and handling stability with Quattro AWD
- High-quality interior materials and advanced technology features

CONFIGURATIONS TO AVOID (THE 'LEMON' LIST)

All configurations (general ownership considerations)
- Higher cost of parts and specialized labor for repairs and maintenance
- Potential for electrical gremlins, particularly with infotainment systems or sensors, requiring dealer diagnostics
- Carbon buildup on intake valves can occur over long-term ownership, though less severe than older direct-injection engines
- Water pump and thermostat housing leaks are common failure points across many VAG engines as they age

Used car buyer guide (Australia)

Common problems & platform risks

For the Audi S5 model year 2019 (2017-2023), recurring issues often cluster around specific engines, transmissions, and shared chassis electronics. The trust score reflects how often serious powertrain or drivetrain problems show up in real-world reports versus routine maintenance. Always verify with a pre-purchase inspection and service history.

What to inspect before you buy

Use the platform-wide inspection list above for leaks, rust, suspension wear, and electronics. On a test drive, listen for drivetrain noises, check transmission behaviour when hot, and scan for warning lights. In Australia, heat and urban short trips can accelerate wear—factor in climate-appropriate servicing.

Best engine or trim to target

A typical starting point is configurations similar to: 3.0L TFSI V6 (EA839) with 8-speed ZF Automatic. Cross-check against the recommended list and your budget; the "sweet spot" often balances fewer reported failures with parts availability.

Configurations to be cautious about

Sources frequently flag higher risk around: All configurations (general ownership considerations). That does not mean every car fails—use it as a prioritisation list for inspection and price negotiation.

Ownership cost signals

Higher reported failure rates usually mean more workshop time and parts cost. Before buying, get quotes for common jobs on this generation (timing, fluids, suspension, transmission service) from an independent specialist familiar with the brand.

PLATFORM-WIDE QUIRKS & INSPECTION POINTS (ALL MODELS)

Infotainment system glitches, software bugs, or MMI control issues
Premature wear of suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings) on rough roads or with aggressive driving
Potential for oil leaks from various seals (e.g., valve cover, timing cover) as the vehicle accumulates mileage
PCV valve issues, while less common on the EA839 than older engines, can still be a point of failure
Accelerated brake wear (pads and rotors) due to the vehicle's performance nature and weight

Frequently asked questions

Is the Audi S5 model year 2019 (2017-2023) reliable in Australia?: This generation is summarized with a trust score of 70 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.
Which Audi S5 model year 2019 configuration should I buy used?: 3.0L TFSI V6 (EA839) with 8-speed ZF Automatic: Strong and responsive engine with good power delivery Smooth, robust, and generally reliable 8-speed ZF automatic transmission
Which Audi S5 model year 2019 configurations should I avoid?: All configurations (general ownership considerations): Higher cost of parts and specialized labor for repairs and maintenance Potential for electrical gremlins, particularly with infotainment systems or sensors, requiring dealer diagnostics
What should I inspect on a used Audi S5 model year 2019?: Infotainment system glitches, software bugs, or MMI control issues Premature wear of suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings) on rough roads or with aggressive driving Potential for oil leaks from various seals (e.g., valve cover, timing cover) as the vehicle accumulates mileage PCV valve issues, while less common on the EA839 than older engines, can still be a point of failure

Sources

No web sources were attached to this report. This usually means grounding was unavailable and the fallback structured generation mode was used.