2018 Audi RS5 Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2018 Audi RS5 and How to Address Them Promptly

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2018 Audi RS5 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 2018 Audi RS5 is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2018 Audi RS5?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2018 Audi RS5, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage. This initial step allows you to identify any obvious signs of oil pooling or dripping, which can help narrow down the potential source of the leak. Next, check the oil levels in the engine; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs addressing. Pay close attention to the gaskets and seals, particularly around the valve cover, oil pan, and oil filter housing, as these are common culprits for leaks. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system, which can reveal hidden leaks. For more challenging cases, adding UV dye to the oil and using a UV light can help trace the leak's origin in hard-to-reach areas. If these methods do not yield results, consulting a qualified mechanic who specializes in Audi vehicles is advisable for a professional diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the oil leak issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2018 Audi RS5?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2018 Audi RS5, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within its engine components. One of the primary culprits is the oil pan gasket, which can degrade over time, leading to oil seepage. Similarly, worn or damaged valve cover gaskets can also allow oil to escape, making them another frequent source of leaks. Additionally, the oil filter housing gasket plays a vital role in sealing the oil filter; if it fails, it can result in significant oil loss. Another potential issue is a leaking oil cooler, which is essential for maintaining optimal oil temperature; any leaks here can lead to oil escaping from the system. Lastly, a cracked or damaged oil pan can be a serious concern, as physical damage can directly cause oil to leak. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining the health of your engine, and regular inspections can help catch these problems early, ensuring your Audi RS5 runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2018 Audi RS5?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2018 Audi RS5 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. An oil leak can lead to a significant drop in oil levels, which compromises the lubrication of essential engine components. This lack of lubrication can result in increased friction, leading to premature wear and tear, and ultimately, engine damage. Moreover, if left unchecked, the leak can cause the engine to overheat, a situation that could escalate into costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The safety implications are equally concerning, as leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. By addressing the oil leak promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also protect yourself and others from potential safety risks. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and resolve any oil leak issues to ensure the continued reliability of your Audi RS5.

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2018 Audi RS5 Oil Leak Solutions & Repair Costs | RepairPal