Audi A5 Sportback 2.0L 40/45 TFSI MHEV (2021–2022) Platform Guide

Why it happens:

Front brake pad and rotor premature wear typically occurs due to aggressive driving, stuck calipers, poor-quality parts, or improper installation.

Symptoms:

• Grinding or squealing noises when braking, often caused by worn pads or scored rotors
• Vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal, especially during braking—can indicate warped rotors
• Longer stopping distances, even with firm pedal pressure
• Uneven or rapid tire wear, sometimes linked to braking imbalance
• Visible grooves or discoloration on the rotor surface
• Brake warning light on the dashboard
• Spongy or soft brake pedal, suggesting uneven pad wear or rotor damage

Parts to Replace

• Front Part # 355025811 The Disc Brake Pad Set – Front (Part #355025811) is a HELLA PAGID product designed for high-performance braking and OE-level fitment.
• Rear Part # 355040941 The Disc Brake Pad Set – Rear (Part #355040941) by HELLA PAGID is a high-quality OE replacement designed for several Audi models.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
• Hella Pagid

Why it happens:

Rear Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) motor failure typically occurs due to corrosion, water intrusion, worn gears, or electrical faults in the actuator system.

Symptoms:

• Parking brake warning light stays illuminated or flashes on the dashboard
• Failure to engage or release the parking brake when pressing the EPB butto
• Grinding or clicking noises from the rear wheels during activation
• Stuck brakes, especially after rain or cold weather
• Intermittent operation, where the brake works sometimes but not consistently
• Error codes like C10xx or U10xx stored in the vehicle’s ECU

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Parking Brake Actuator - Rear 8W0998281 The Genuine VW/Audi Parking Brake Actuator part number 8W0998281 is a top-performing brake actuator that is specially designed for Audi vehicles.
• Front Driver Side 8W0615107C The Audi Front Driver Side Disc Brake Caliper (Part #8W0615107C) is a genuine OEM component designed for models like the A4, A4 allroad, A5, A5 Sportback, A6, Q5, RS5, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, and SQ5.
• Rear Driver Side Part # 8W0615403NSL7 The Genuine VW/Audi Disc Brake Caliper part number 8W0615403NSL7 is an essential component for your Audi’s braking system.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault Codes:

C0040: right front wheel speed sensor fault; C1234: steering angle sensor issue; U0416: invalid data from Vehicle Dynamics Control Module.

Why it happens:

A brake pad wear sensor fault typically occurs due to broken sensor wires, corrosion at connectors, improper installation, or damaged pad contact surfaces.

Symptoms:

• Brake warning light stays on, even after replacing pads
• Intermittent or false alerts about pad wear
• ABS or traction control lights may illuminate if the fault affects shared circuits
• No warning at all, even when pads are clearly worn
• Unusual braking behavior, like delayed response or inconsistent pedal feel
• Visible damage to the sensor wire or connector during inspection

Parts to Replace

• Front 8W0615121H The Audi Front Disc Brake Pad Wear Sensor (Part #8W0615121H) is a genuine OEM component designed to monitor brake pad thickness and alert the driver when replacement is needed.
• Rear 8W0615121E The Genuine VW/Audi Disc Brake Pad Wear Sensor part number 8W0615121E for Audi is a premium-quality replacement part that ensures the smooth functioning of your brake system.
• Rear 8W0615121E The Audi Rear Disc Brake Pad Wear Sensor (Part #8W0615121E) is a genuine OEM component designed to monitor rear brake pad thickness and alert the driver when replacement is needed.
• Rear 4M0615121P The Audi Rear Disc Brake Pad Wear Sensor (Part #4M0615121P) is a genuine OEM-style sensor designed to monitor rear brake pad thickness and alert the driver when replacement is needed.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
• eEuroparts

Why it happens:

Control arm bushing wear typically occurs due to age-related rubber degradation, exposure to harsh road conditions, and repeated suspension movement causing stress.

Symptoms:

• Vibrating or shaky steering wheel, especially during acceleration or braking
• Clunking or knocking noises from the suspension when driving over bumps
• Uneven tire wear, often more pronounced on one side
• Poor alignment or steering drift, where the car pulls to one side
• Reduced braking stability, even though the brakes themselves are fine
• Loose or unstable handling, particularly at higher speeds or during cornering

Parts to Replace

• Lemforder  Front Lower Rearward 35381 01 The Lemforder Suspension Control Arm Bushing part number 35381 01 is designed specifically for Audi vehicles.
• Front Upper Rearward 8W0407515 The Genuine VW/Audi Suspension Control Arm Bushing part number 4N0407515 for Audi is a high-quality replacement part designed to ensure optimal handling and stability of your vehicle’s suspension system.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
• Lemforder

Why it happens:

Rear suspension knocking noise typically occurs due to worn bushings, damaged shock absorbers, loose sway bar links, or insufficient lubrication.

Symptoms:

• Clunking or knocking sounds when driving over bumps or uneven roads
• Metallic thuds from the rear, especially during acceleration, braking, or cornering
• Excessive bouncing or poor ride quality, indicating worn shocks or struts
• Uneven tire wear, often caused by misaligned or loose suspension components
• Loose or unstable handling, particularly noticeable at higher speeds
• Squeaking or creaking noises, which may accompany the knocking if bushings are worn
• Visible damage or play in components like sway bar links, shock mounts, or control arms

Parts to Replace

• Rear Lower Center 8W0505311H The Audi Rear Lower Center Suspension Control Arm (Part #8W0505311H) is a genuine OEM component designed for models like the A4, A5, S4, S5, RS5, and their Sportback variants from 2017 to 2024.
• Rear Driver Side Upper Forward 8W0505323F The Audi Rear Driver Side Upper Forward Suspension Control Arm (Part #8W0505323F) is a genuine OEM component designed for various Audi models.
• Rear Driver Side 8W0505397F The Audi Rear Driver Side Suspension Control Arm (Part #8W0505397F) is a genuine OEM lateral arm designed for the rear left side of several Audi models.
• Front Lower Part # 5225926-Kit The Suspension Control Arm Kit – Front Lower (Part #5225926-Kit) appears to be a comprehensive replacement kit designed for the front lower suspension setup.

Brands

• Lemforder
• Genuine VW/Audi

Why it happens:

Suspension arm ball joint failure typically occurs due to wear and tear, corrosion, contamination, overloading, or lack of lubrication.

Symptoms:

• Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps or during turns
• Steering wander – the vehicle drifts left or right without input
• Uneven tire wear, often on the inner or outer edges
• Vibration in the steering wheel, particularly at higher speeds
• Loose or unresponsive steering, making the car feel unstable
• Squeaking noises when turning or going over uneven surfaces
• Visible play or looseness in the ball joint during inspection

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Suspension Ball Joint - Front Lower 8W0407689B The Genuine VW/Audi Suspension Ball Joint part number 8W0407689B / 8W0-407-689-B for Audi is a high-quality replacement part designed for a perfect fit and superior performance.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Why it happens:

Lateral arm failure typically occurs due to metal fatigue, corrosion, impact damage, or worn bushings, that compromise suspension alignment and stability.

Symptoms:

• Clunking or knocking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps or during turns
• Uneven tire wear, often due to misalignment caused by worn bushings or joints
• Loose or unstable handling, particularly noticeable at higher speeds or during cornering
• Steering pull or drift, where the vehicle veers to one side
• Vibration or shimmying through the steering wheel or chassis
• Visible damage or play in the lateral arm or its bushings during inspection
• Poor alignment retention, even after repeated alignments

Parts to Replace

• Rear Driver Side 8W0505397F the Audi Rear Driver Side Suspension Control Arm (Part #8W0505397F) is a genuine OEM lateral arm designed for the rear left side of Audi models.
• Rear Passenger Side 8W0505398F The Audi Rear Passenger Side Suspension Control Arm (Part #8W0505398F) is a genuine OEM lateral arm designed for the rear right side of Audi models.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Why it happens:

Shock absorber leakage typically occurs due to seal failure from wear, corrosion, improper installation, or impact damage, allowing hydraulic fluid to escape.

Symptoms:

• Visible oil or dampness on the shock body near the wheel well
• Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or dips in the road
• Nose-diving when braking or rear squatting during acceleration
• Uneven tire wear, especially cupping or scalloping patterns
• Longer stopping distances due to reduced road contact
• Poor handling or body roll, especially when cornering
• Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension area

Parts to Replace

• Front Part # 8W0413029N The Genuine VW/Audi Suspension Strut part number 8W0413029N is designed for Audi models and is a reliable replacement for your vehicle’s suspension system.
• Front 8W0413031BA The Audi Front Shock Absorber (Part #8W0413031BA) is a genuine OEM component designed for models like the A4, A5, S4, and S5.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Why it happens:

Spark plugs wear down over time due to electrode erosion, carbon fouling, oil contamination, or overheating. In turbocharged engines like the Audi A4 2.0L, increased cylinder pressures and higher combustion temperatures accelerate plug degradation, leading to weak or inconsistent ignition sparks.

Symptoms:

• Rough idle – The engine may shake or vibrate noticeably while idling.
• Hard starting – Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold conditions.
• Loss of power and acceleration – Engine feels sluggish during takeoff or under load.
• Engine misfire – Noticeable jerks or hesitation while driving, often more pronounced under acceleration.
• Increased fuel consumption – Poor combustion efficiency reduces fuel economy.
• Check Engine Light – Illumination due to misfire-related DTCs.
• Strong fuel odor – Unburned fuel may exit the exhaust due to incomplete combustion.

Parts to Replace

• Audi/VW OEM Spark Plug Set (Part # 06Q905601A) – Genuine replacement ensuring perfect compatibility and factory performance.
• Bosch OE Fine Wire Iridium Spark Plug (Part #  8501) – High-durability plug offering stable ignition under turbocharged conditions.
• Denso Iridium Power Spark Plug (Part # 3027) – Known for consistent ignition and extended service life.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
• Bosch
• Denso

Why it happens:

The steering tie rod end connects the steering rack to the wheel hub, enabling smooth directional control. Over time, constant exposure to road impacts, potholes, salt, and moisture causes the tie rod ball joint to wear out. This results in looseness, play, and misalignment in the steering system, reducing vehicle safety and handling precision.

Symptoms:

• Steering wheel play – Excessive looseness or vibration felt through the steering wheel.
• Uneven tire wear – Premature inside or outside edge wear due to poor wheel alignment.
• Pulling while driving – Vehicle drifts left or right, requiring frequent correction.
• Clunking noise – Audible clunk or knock from the front end during turns or bumps.
• Poor steering response – Reduced control accuracy, especially at higher speeds.
• Failed alignment – Difficulty maintaining proper wheel alignment after adjustments.

Parts to Replace

• Driver Side Outer 8W0423811C The Genuine VW/Audi Steering Tie Rod End part number 8W0423811C / 8W0-423-811-C for Audi is an essential component that plays a crucial role in the steering mechanism of your Audi vehicle.
• Passenger Side Outer 8W0423812C The Genuine VW/Audi Steering Tie Rod End part number 8W0423812C / 8W0-423-812-C is an essential component for the smooth functioning of your Audi.
• Inner 8W0423810A The Genuine VW/Audi Steering Tie Rod End is designed to provide your Audi with superior performance, stability and control.
• Mevotech Front Driver Side Outer - MS70717 The Audi Steering Tie Rod End – Front Driver Side Outer (Mevotech Part #MS70717) is an aftermarket replacement designed to match OEM specifications for several Audi models.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
• Mevotech

Fault Codes:  

P2004, P2006, and P2015 fault codes point to intake manifold runner issues—stuck flaps and sensor misalignment or failure.

Why it happens:

Intake manifold runner flap failure typically occurs due to carbon buildup, actuator malfunction, or wiring issues disrupting airflow control.

Symptoms:

• Check Engine Light illumination
• Reduced engine power and sluggish acceleration
• Rough idling or engine stalling
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Loss of turbo boost pressure (in turbocharged engines)
• Limp mode activation, limiting engine performance to prevent damage

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Engine Intake Manifold 06L133201FR The Genuine VW/Audi Engine Intake Manifold part number 06L133201FR for Audi is an exceptional upgrade for your vehicle’s performance.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault codes P0300 to P0304 indicate random and specific cylinder misfires, while P1336 points to a crankshaft position variation issue affecting timing.

Why it happens:

Connecting rod failure typically occurs due to detonation, improper bearing clearance, hydrolocking, or incorrect rod selection and torque for the engine.

Symptoms:

• Engine knocking or "rod knock" – a deep metallic tapping sound, especially during acceleration or idle
• Loss of power – due to disrupted piston movement and poor combustion
• Low compression – particularly in the affected cylinder
• Excessive vibration – from imbalance in the engine’s internal motion
• Oil pressure warning light – often triggered by bearing wear or damage
• Metal shavings in oil – a sign of internal wear or bearing failure
• Engine misfire or stalling – from disrupted timing and combustion
• Catastrophic engine damage – in severe cases, the rod can puncture the engine block

Parts to Replace

• OEM VW Engine Connecting Rod (Set of 4) 06H198401D The VW engine connecting rod set (part number 06H198401D) is a genuine Volkswagen-Audi component designed to link the pistons to the crankshaft, ensuring smooth engine operation.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

P0325, P0016, and P0335 indicate timing and sensor issues—knock detection failure, timing misalignment, and crankshaft signal loss.

Why it happens:

Crankshaft pulley failure typically occurs due to worn-out damping rubber, fluid contamination, improper installation, or excessive belt tension.

Symptoms:

• Excessive engine vibration, especially at higher RPMs
• Irregular or rough idling, due to imbalance in the pulley
• Engine stalling or difficulty starting the vehicle
• Battery not charging properly, often from alternator belt slippage
• Loss of power steering, if the serpentine belt slips or breaks
• Overheating, as the water pump may stop functioning
• Knocking noises from the engine bay
• Visible wobble or misalignment of the pulley while the engine runs

Parts to Replace

• OEM Engine Harmonic Balancer Part # 06L105243AP The Genuine VW/Audi Engine Crankshaft Pulley part number 06L105243AP is a top-quality replacement part for your Audi vehicle’s engine.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault codes P2181, P0117, and P0087 indicate cooling system performance issues, low engine coolant temperature sensor voltage, and low fuel rail pressure, respectively.

Why it happens:

Engine water pump failure usually results from worn bearings, corroded seals, contaminated coolant, or using plain water instead of proper antifreeze.

Symptoms:

• Engine overheating – the most obvious and dangerous sign
• Coolant leaks – often visible under the front of the engine or as dried residue
• Whining or squealing noises – caused by worn bearings or a loose pulley
• Steam or white smoke – especially from the radiator or engine bay
• Rust or corrosion – visible on or around the water pump housing
• Fluctuating engine temperature – inconsistent readings on the temperature gauge
• Low coolant levels – even without visible leaks, due to internal seepage

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Engine Water Pump 06L121012L The Genuine VW/Audi Engine Water Pump part number 06L121012L is specifically designed for Audi vehicles.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

1. Electric Fuel Pump and Gasket Fault

Fault Codes:

P0087 (Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low),  P0089 (Fuel Pressure Regulator Performance P0230 (Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction),  P0231 (Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low)

Why it happens:

The electric fuel pump delivers pressurized fuel from the tank to the engine. Over time, pump components wear out due to heat, ethanol-blended fuels, or electrical degradation. The fuel pump gasket, which seals the pump to the tank, may harden or crack, leading to fuel leaks or vapor escapes. Both failures affect proper fuel delivery, reducing engine performance and creating safety hazards.

Symptoms:

• Hard starting or no-start condition – Insufficient fuel pressure prevents the engine from firing.
• Loss of power during acceleration – Weak pump output causes fuel starvation under load.
• Engine misfires or stalling – Intermittent fuel delivery disrupts combustion.
• Whining noise from the rear of the vehicle – A failing pump often produces a high-pitched sound.
• Fuel smell around the rear seat or underbody – A deteriorated gasket may cause leaks or vapor seepage.
• Check Engine Light illumination – Fuel system codes stored in the ECU.

Parts to Replace

• Genuine VW/Audi Electric Fuel Pump 8W0919087AA, ensures proper fuel pressure and flow to maintain engine performance.
• Genuine VW/Audi Fuel Pump Gasket WHT005184, prevents leaks and fuel vapor escape when replacing the pump.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault codes P0ABF, U012A, and P0562 relate to hybrid battery isolation issues, lost communication with the battery energy control module, and low system voltage, respectively.

Why it happens:

Battery current sensor failure typically occurs due to contamination from dirt or battery acid, moisture intrusion, or damage during battery servicing.

Symptoms:

• Low battery voltage – the sensor may misreport current, causing undercharging
• Check Engine Light – often triggered by inaccurate sensor readings
• Battery draining quickly – due to improper charging regulation
• Inconsistent or fluctuating voltage readings – especially during startup or load changes
• Corrosion or damage around the sensor or terminals
• Zero or erratic current readings – even when the system is active
• Charging system warning – some vehicles display a specific fault code like P154A
• Electrical accessories malfunctioning – such as dim lights or slow window operation

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Battery Cable Terminal End 4F0915519 The Genuine VW/Audi Cable Terminal End part number 4F0915519 is a must-have for Audi owners.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi
  
  

Fault Codes:

Faults U0101, P0705, and U0140 indicate lost communication with TCM or BCM and issues in the transmission range sensor.

Symptoms:

• Incorrect gear display – the indicator shows the wrong gear, like “D” when you’re actually in “N”
• Shift indicator doesn’t move – stays stuck even when you change gears
• No illumination – the gear letters don’t light up, especially at night
• Check Engine Light – may come on due to sensor or circuit faults
• Vehicle behaves unexpectedly – like rolling in neutral when you think it’s in park
• Delayed or failed gear engagement – hesitation when shifting into drive or reverse
• Inconsistent gear feedback – gear position doesn’t match the actual transmission state

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator 8W1864241FV58 The Genuine VW/Audi Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator part number 8W1864241FV58 is a must-have for Audi owners looking to maintain the optimal performance of their vehicles.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault Codes:

P17D8, P17BF, and P17E1 indicate DSG faults: clutch overheating and mechanical issues with gear positioners 1 and 2.

Symptoms:

• Reddish-brown fluid puddles under the vehicle, especially after parking
• Low transmission fluid levels, leading to slipping or delayed gear shifts
• Visible rust, cracks, or dents on the pan during inspection
• Burning smell from leaking fluid hitting hot components
• Transmission overheating or warning lights on the dashboard
• Whining or grinding noises during gear changes
• Erratic or harsh shifting, especially when accelerating or decelerating

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi Transmission Filter Part # 0CK321359M The Genuine VW/Audi Transmission Filter part number 0CK321359M is an essential component for Audi vehicles that require the highest level of performance and reliability.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault Codes:

P17E8, P17E1, and P17BF signal DSG issues: gear 3–4 shift ratio error and mechanical faults in positioners 2 and 1.

Symptoms:

• Dark, dirty, or burnt-smelling fluid – fresh transmission fluid is typically red; degraded fluid turns brown or black and may smell scorched
• Slipping gears – the transmission may struggle to stay in gear or shift properly
• Delayed or harsh shifting – gear changes feel jerky or take longer than usual
• Overheating transmission – degraded oil can’t dissipate heat effectively, triggering warning lights
• Unusual noises – whining, grinding, or clunking sounds during gear changes
• Reduced fuel efficiency – the transmission works harder, consuming more power
• Transmission warning light – may illuminate due to poor fluid condition or related faults

Parts to Replace

• Audi Transmission Oil Filter 0CK325421A - Genuine VW/Audi The Genuine VW/Audi Transmission Oil Filter part number 0CK325421A for Audi is a high-quality replacement part that ensures optimal performance of your Audi’s transmission system.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault Codes:

Fault codes U104D00 and B10F014 indicate communication loss with a control module and a fault in the HVAC control system.

Why it happens:

Parking sensor failure typically occurs due to dirt or moisture on the sensors, wiring issues, physical damage, or software glitches.

Symptoms:

• Inconsistent alerts – beeping erratically or not at all, even when obstacles are present
• False alarms – sensors beep when there’s nothing nearby, often due to interference or dirt
• No sound or feedback – complete silence when reversing, even near objects
• Dashboard warning lights or error messages – indicating sensor or system malfunction
• Unusual beeping patterns – like constant tones or rapid beeps without cause

Parts to Replace

• Front Center 5Q0919275CGRU The Genuine VW/Audi Parking Aid Sensor part number 5Q0919275C GRU is the perfect solution for Audi owners who are looking for a reliable parking aid system.
• Rear Outer and Rear 5Q0919275BGRU The Genuine VW/Audi Parking Aid Sensor part number 5Q0919275B GRU is a must-have for any Audi owner.
• Front Outer 5Q0919297BGRU This Genuine VW/Audi Parking Aid Sensor part number 5Q0919297B GRU is an essential component for your Audi vehicle.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi

Fault Codes:

Fault codes B10C9, B10D8, and B10EA indicate issues with the interior front antenna circuit, insufficient programmed PATS keys, and a short circuit in the PTC heater circuit, respectively.

Why it happens:

HVAC blower motor failure typically occurs due to electrical issues, overheating from dirt buildup, worn bearings, or lack of regular maintenance.

Symptoms:

• Weak or no airflow from the vents, even when the system is on
• Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or rattling from the blower area
• Burning smell or hot odor coming from the vents, often due to overheating
• Blower runs intermittently or shuts off unexpectedly
• Tripped circuit breakers, especially if the motor is seizing or drawing too much current
• Inconsistent temperatures or poor climate control inside the cabin
• Dashboard HVAC controls unresponsive, if the motor isn’t functioning at all

Parts to Replace

• OEM Audi HVAC Blower Motor Assembly Part # 4M1820021C The Genuine VW/Audi HVAC Blower Motor Assembly part number 4M1820021C is an essential component for your Audi’s heating and air conditioning system.
• OEM Audi HVAC Blower Motor Assembly Part # 4M1820021C The Genuine VW/Audi HVAC Blower Motor Assembly part number 4M1820021C is an essential component for your Audi’s heating and air conditioning system.

Brands

• Genuine VW/Audi