What to look for when buying an A5 3.0 TDI?

2017 · 3.0 TDI · 3 verified findings
"Is the A5 3.0 TDI reliable, and what should you check?"

When buying a used Audi A5 3.0 TDI 2017 (F5), the most frequently mentioned issue is: EGR/Exhaust Gas Recirculation Clogging and Excessive Carbon. Additionally, dirty or faulty injectors are also commonly reported.

Engines available in this year

Engine varies by trim; verify the engine code on the listing.

DCPC
3.0 TDI · 3.0 TDI (286 bg) quattro tiptronic
CRTC
3.0 TDI · 3.0 TDI (272 bg) quattro tiptronic
CSWB
3.0 TDI · 3.0 TDI (218 bg) S tronic

Known issues and risks

Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.

EGR/Exhaust Gas Recirculation Clogging and Excessive Carbon

Often reported

The EGR valve and gas recirculation circuit may become partially clogged or carbonized, causing power loss, rough running, and reduced performance.

Engine Internal

Dirty or faulty injectors

Often reported

Technical discussions on expert forums report cases of clogged or faulty injectors in the group's V6 diesel engine (also seen in the 3.0 TDI). Symptoms include rough cold start, performance loss, smoke, and in more severe cases, piston damage.

Fuel System

Turbo oil seal wear / turbo leaks

Often reported

Wear of turbocharger oil seals can cause oil leaks into the air intake circuit, exhaust smoke, and increased oil consumption.

Turbo

Same trim, different year

Frequently asked questions

What to look for when buying an Audi A5 3.0 TDI?+
When buying a 2017 model 3.0 TDI, check the service history, test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. Most commonly reported issues: EGR/Exhaust Gas Recirculation Clogging and Excessive Carbon; dirty or faulty injectors; turbo oil seal wear / turbo leaks.
What are the chronic problems of the Audi A5 3.0 TDI?+
Most commonly reported issues: EGR/Exhaust Gas Recirculation Clogging and Excessive Carbon; dirty or faulty injectors; turbo oil seal wear / turbo leaks.
Is the Audi A5 3.0 TDI reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes or no, it's best to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 3 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from Difetti fault database records; compatibility between the source vehicle and target vehicle is verified by brand, fuel, engine, and generation. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.

We only publish claims we can verify. Cards come from Difetti fault records matched to this vehicle on brand, fuel, engine and generation.

Looking at another car?

Pick make, model and year — see the report in about 30 seconds.

Analyze now