Models · Audi
Audi R8 Type 42 buying guide
The first R8, built from 2007 to 2015 as a coupé and from 2010 as a Spyder, with a 4.2 V8 or 5.2 V10 behind the seats and quattro. It was facelifted in 2012, when the S tronic replaced the R tronic. The known issues are well documented and most have a check at the viewing.
The versions
- 4.2 FSI V8, 420PS, rising to 430PS in 2010
- 5.2 FSI V10 from 2009, 525PS, and the V10 plus from 2012, 550PS; the lighter GT was a limited run
- 6-speed gated manual, or the R tronic single-clutch automated manual until 2012, then the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch
- Coupé and Spyder bodies, aluminium construction, quattro four-wheel drive
- Magnetic Ride adaptive dampers on many cars
What to check on a first-generation R8
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Front radiators
What to look for: Shine a torch through the front openings at the radiators. Look for corrosion, crumbling fins and coolant staining at the seams. Check the coolant level while cold.
Why it matters: The outer front radiators can leak at their seams from about six years old. Replacement radiators are readily available, and a car with them already done has had the job taken care of.
Oil cooler pipes
What to look for: From underneath, look at the oil pipes running to the cooler at the rear left of the car for rust and wet oil.
Why it matters: These pipes can rust through. Finding light corrosion early means a planned replacement rather than an oil leak.
Magnetic Ride dampers
What to look for: Look at each damper behind the wheels for oily residue. On the drive, switch between the suspension modes and feel for a clear difference, and listen for thumps over bumps.
Why it matters: The magnetic dampers can leak and fail on older cars. They're usually replaced in pairs, and some owners fit quality coilovers instead. A car on the standard suspension doesn't have this item.
Also in the full guide
- Clutch wear on manual and R tronic cars
- Rear suspension and knocks
- Misfires and engine noises
- The Spyder fuel pipe recall
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the first-generation R8
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.