2018 Audi S5

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
3L V6 Turbo
Oil Type & Capacity
5W-40 Full Synthetic (6.9 qts)
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S7)
Wheel Torque
89
ft-lbs

The 2018 Audi S5 maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Audi S5.

For oil changes, the 2018 Audi S5 takes 5W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 6.9 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 4, the recommended coolant is G13 (Purple, phosphate-free), and transmission fluid is VW G 055 025 A2. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Audi S5, torque the lug nuts to 89 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2018 Audi S5 have reported 5 common issues including "Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle (B9)", "ZF 8-Speed Transmission Shudder" and "Coolant Loss from Auxiliary Water Pump". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2018 Audi S5 uses 5W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil (6.9 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 89 ft-lbs, takes DOT 4 brake fluid.

2018 Audi S5 Specifications
Motor Oil5W-40 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity6.9 qt
Lug Nut Torque89 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 4
CoolantG13 (Purple, phosphate-free)
Transmission FluidVW G 055 025 A2
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
VW G 055 025 A2
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Coolant
Fluid Type
G13 (Purple, phosphate-free)
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Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 4
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2018 Audi S5. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
10,000 mi / 12 mo
VW 502/504 5W-40; ~8.0 qt (EA839 3.0T V6)
Tire Rotation
10,000 mi
Cabin Air Filter
20,000 mi / 24 mo
Engine Air Filter
40,000 mi / 48 mo
Brake Fluid
24 mo
DOT 4 LV
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
ZF 8HP
Coolant
100,000 mi / 60 mo
Audi G13
Spark Plugs
50,000 mi
High-output 3.0T
Front & Rear Differential Fluid
60,000 mi
quattro sport diff
Battery
60 mo
AGM; code after replacement
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2018 Audi S5.

Common problems reported by 2018 Audi S5 owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle (B9)

The B9 S5's 3.0T turbocharged V6 wastegate develops a rattle on cold starts and at low RPM. The noise resembles marbles or a metallic tapping sound. While not immediately harmful, it worsens over time.

Solution

Replace the turbocharger wastegate actuator. Audi TSB 2044285 covers this condition. Warranty claims have been approved for vehicles within powertrain coverage. Aftermarket wastegate actuators are also available.

Est. Cost: $1,200 - $3,500
2

ZF 8-Speed Transmission Shudder

The ZF 8HP transmission exhibits shuddering during low-speed shifts, particularly in 2nd and 3rd gear. The torque converter can also develop shudder during light throttle acceleration at highway speeds.

Solution

Perform a transmission fluid change with the correct ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid and reset the transmission adaptation values. If shudder persists, torque converter replacement may be needed. ZF recommends fluid changes every 50,000 miles.

Est. Cost: $400 (fluid service) - $3,000 (torque converter)
3

Coolant Loss from Auxiliary Water Pump

The auxiliary electric water pump and its connections develop leaks, causing gradual coolant loss. Owners notice low coolant warnings without visible external leaks, as coolant may be seeping into internal engine areas.

Solution

Replace the auxiliary water pump and associated hoses/connections. Check the main water pump and thermostat housing simultaneously as they often fail in similar timeframes on the 3.0T engine.

Est. Cost: $600 - $1,500
4

Virtual Cockpit Display Failures

The digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit) can develop pixel failures, flickering, or complete blackouts. Some units produce a buzzing noise from the display backlight. The display may intermittently lose communication with the MMI.

Solution

Dealer replaces the instrument cluster under warranty or at cost. Software updates may resolve intermittent issues. Aftermarket repair services can replace the LCD panel at lower cost than OEM cluster replacement.

Est. Cost: $500 (LCD repair) - $2,500 (cluster replacement)
5

Rear Differential Fluid Leak

The rear differential output shaft seals and cover gasket develop leaks, resulting in differential fluid dripping and eventually low fluid levels. If left unaddressed, the differential can be damaged from insufficient lubrication.

Solution

Replace the rear differential output shaft seals and cover gasket. Refill with the correct differential fluid. Inspect the differential internals for wear if the fluid was severely low.

Est. Cost: $400 - $1,200

Have the VIN?

Decode your VIN for even more detailed specs including trim-level data.

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S5 — Other Model Years
2026202520242023202220212020201920172016
See Also
2018 Audi S5 Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2018 Audi S5All Vehicles Using 5W-40 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 4Oil Change Guide: 2018 Audi S5Wiper Replacement: 2018 Audi S5