2020 Audi A5 Quattro Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Audi A5 Quattro

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Audi A5 Quattro has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Audi A5 Quattro has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2020 Audi A5 Quattro?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Audi A5 Quattro, it's essential to approach the situation methodically to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional alerts or warning lights, as these can offer further insights into the problem. Inspecting the engine bay for visible damage to wires, hoses, or connectors is also crucial, as physical issues can often lead to warning signals. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner can be invaluable. This tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the problem, allowing for a more targeted approach to repairs. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can provide additional context and troubleshooting steps tailored to your vehicle. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Audi A5 Quattro?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2020 Audi A5 Quattro, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and is an easy fix. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects your vehicle's emissions but can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Worn or malfunctioning spark plugs can also impact engine performance, leading to misfires and the illumination of the check engine light. Furthermore, issues with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while a failing ignition coil can cause engine misfires as well. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's performance and preventing further damage, so if you encounter the check engine light, consider these common problems as a starting point for your DIY diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Audi A5 Quattro?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Audi A5 Quattro, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to more severe problems, ranging from minor sensor malfunctions to significant engine damage, which can be costly to repair. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, it is crucial to understand that some problems may require professional expertise to resolve effectively. Therefore, while you can take initial steps to diagnose the issue, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic if the problem persists or if the codes indicate a serious concern. By acting promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also prevent potential safety risks associated with driving a car that may be experiencing mechanical failures.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.