2020 Audi S5 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Audi S5: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 S5 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 S5 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 S5?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Audi S5, the first step is to check for any visible issues, particularly the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, utilizing an OBD-II scanner to read the error code is crucial, as it provides specific insights into the underlying problem. Pay attention to any noticeable changes in your vehicle's performance, such as rough idling or stalling, as these symptoms can help pinpoint the issue. Additionally, consulting your owner's manual can offer valuable information regarding the check engine light and any manufacturer-specific recommendations. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue or if the problem appears to be more complex, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2020 Audi S5?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Audi S5, 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's pressure and trigger the light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency. If the catalytic converter is malfunctioning, it can also lead to the check engine light activating, as it is essential for reducing harmful emissions. Additionally, worn-out spark plugs can cause misfires, resulting in the light turning on. Problems with the mass airflow sensor, which measures the amount of air entering the engine, can further complicate performance and trigger the warning. A defective ignition coil may also be at fault, as it is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Lastly, an engine misfire, potentially caused by issues like a bad fuel injector or low compression, can lead to the check engine light being activated. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to maintaining your vehicle's performance and preventing more significant problems down the line. If you're not comfortable diagnosing the issue yourself, consulting a qualified mechanic is always a wise choice.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2020 Audi S5?

Addressing the check engine light on your 2020 Audi S5 is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. This warning indicator is not just a minor inconvenience; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate into more severe problems if ignored. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this light is essential. Neglecting it may lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and ultimately, costly repairs that could have been avoided with early intervention. Moreover, modern vehicles like the Audi S5 come equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can help you identify the specific issue triggering the light, making it easier to tackle repairs yourself. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also contribute to a healthier environment by reducing harmful emissions. Therefore, if your check engine light illuminates, take the time to investigate the cause and resolve it swiftly to ensure your Audi S5 remains in optimal condition.

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2020 Audi S5 Check Engine Light: Causes & Repair Costs