Models · Audi
Audi A8 D5 buying guide
The D5 A8, on sale since 2017, is Audi's flagship saloon, with V6 and V8 engines using a 48-volt mild hybrid system, an eight-speed automatic, quattro and air suspension, in standard and long-wheelbase forms. Most checks are about its electronics and recall work.
The versions
- 50 TDI: 3.0 V6 diesel with 48-volt mild hybrid
- 55 TFSI: 3.0 V6 petrol with 48-volt mild hybrid; later 4.0 V8 petrol versions
- 8-speed Tiptronic automatic with quattro
- Standard and long-wheelbase (L) bodies with air suspension
- A plug-in hybrid version was sold and isn't covered here
What to check on a D5 A8
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
48-volt system warnings
What to look for: Start the car and watch the instrument display for any electrical system warning. Ask whether the car has ever had a 48-volt warning, a flat battery or a no-start, and what was done.
Why it matters: The mild hybrid system uses a belt-driven starter generator. Audi has issued software updates for intermittent 48-volt warnings on these cars, and a warning that's ignored can drain the 12-volt battery. Faults elsewhere can also trigger the warning, so a diagnosis rather than a new starter generator is often the answer.
Touchscreens and controls
What to look for: Before the drive, work through both touchscreens, the climate controls and the switches. Check each responds first time with the feedback click, and watch for error messages at start-up or warning lights that stay on.
Why it matters: Unresponsive touch-sensitive controls and error messages are among the faults reported on this generation. There are many connected features, so it's worth testing them all.
Air suspension
What to look for: Look at the car from each corner after it has stood, before it's started. It should sit level and rise normally when started.
Why it matters: Air suspension is fitted to every D5 and is a significant repair out of warranty. A corner sitting low after standing is the first sign of a leak.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox oil line on 2019 cars
- Recalls on early cars
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the D5 A8
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.