2020 Audi A5 Sportback Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2020 Audi A5 Sportback

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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 Sportback 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 Sportback 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 Sportback?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Audi A5 Sportback, it's essential to approach the situation methodically to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly sealed cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that may offer further insights into the problem. Pay attention to any unusual noises or odors emanating from the vehicle, as these can provide critical clues about specific issues. If the light persists, using an OBD-II scanner is a practical next step; this tool connects to your car's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that can help pinpoint the exact cause of the check engine light. Finally, don’t overlook your owner’s manual, which can provide tailored guidance on what the check engine light may indicate for your specific model and suggest appropriate actions. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose the issue and determine whether it requires a simple fix or professional assistance.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Audi A5 Sportback, it serves as a crucial alert that something may be amiss under the hood. Understanding the common problems that can trigger this warning light is essential for any DIY enthusiast. A loose gas cap is often the simplest fix; ensuring it is securely tightened can sometimes resolve the issue immediately. More complex problems may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, necessitating replacement to restore optimal vehicle performance. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also activate the check engine light, requiring a thorough inspection. Engine misfires, often caused by worn-out spark plugs or failing ignition coils, can trigger the warning as well, indicating that these components may need to be replaced. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to further complications. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent more significant damage and ensure your Audi A5 runs smoothly, so if the check engine light comes on, consider diagnosing the problem or seeking help from a qualified mechanic.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Audi A5 Sportback, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and performance degradation, which may ultimately result in costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the underlying issue. This proactive approach not only helps in understanding the severity of the problem but also allows you to make informed decisions about whether to tackle the repair yourself or seek professional help. Remember, timely intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into major engine damage, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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2020 Audi A5 Sportback Check Engine Light Guide | RepairPal