AUDI A5 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,932 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
8,932
Avg Mileage
132,636 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2008 AUDI A5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the AUDI brand average of 90%.
At 16 years old, 83% of AUDI A5s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,932 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 132,636 miles.
How does the 2008 AUDI A5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 AUDI A5 has 132,636 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI A5?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 82%. The 2008 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2008 AUDI A5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI A5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 768 | 29,053 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 5,513 | 35,048 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 22,290 | 43,034 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 25,771 | 52,385 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 33,531 | 63,247 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 17,690 | 73,631 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 22,720 | 82,750 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 23,251 | 92,783 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 23,409 | 98,721 mi |
| 2012 | 85% | 20,845 | 106,193 mi |
| 2011 | 83% | 21,339 | 112,687 mi |
| 2010 | 82% | 22,181 | 119,440 mi |
| 2009 | 82% | 13,400 | 125,967 mi |
| 2008 | 83% | 8,932 | 132,636 mi |
| 2007 | 82% | 3,222 | 141,630 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 AUDI A5
The 2008 AUDI A5 is a premium performance with a 2999cc diesel engine. 8,932 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 25% of all 2008 cars for reliability.
With an average of 132,636 miles at 16 years old, AUDI A5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 AUDI A5 Fuel Costs
The 2999cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 AUDI A5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
AUDI A5 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 AUDI A5
At 16 years old, the AUDI A5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 92%. With 8,932 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 AUDI A5
The AUDI A5 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premium performances from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2008) 80% pass rate (-3%) from 48,705 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2010) 80% pass rate (-3%) from 19,704 tests
- AUDI TT (2008) 81% pass rate (-2%) from 16,046 tests
- MERCEDES E (2009) 80% pass rate (-3%) from 14,250 tests