The Multitronic transmission in the Audi A5 is known for serious weaknesses that show up as slipping, jerking and sudden failure, especially after 100,000 kilometres. This Multitronic is a continuously variable automatic (CVT) without fixed gears. Owners do not call it the ‘Multitrauma’ for nothing. These problems occur due to wear on the variable belt, defective mechatronics (the electronic and hydraulic control unit of the gearbox) and oil-related issues, which can lead to expensive repairs or complete replacement of the gearbox. Are you planning to buy an Audi A5 with Multitronic, or are you already experiencing symptoms? Then read on to find out what to look out for.
How to recognise Multitronic problems in the Audi A5
The symptoms of a failing Multitronic are clearly noticeable while driving. Recognising these signals prevents further damage and higher costs.
Slipping is a common first symptom. You notice this because the revs rise sharply without the car actually accelerating. This mainly happens when accelerating or pulling away from a standstill. The engine sounds as if you are pressing the throttle, but the power is not transmitted properly to the wheels.
Jerking and vibration while driving point to problems in the transmission. You feel abrupt movements when it changes ratio or at a constant speed. These jerky transitions often go hand in hand with strange noises from the gearbox. Some owners also report vibrations at cruising speed on the motorway.
Overheating occurs when driving heavily loaded or with trailers. The transmission can then become too hot, damaging the control unit. You may sometimes smell something burning or see warning lights appearing on the dashboard.
The most alarming symptom is complete failure while driving. The gearbox suddenly disengages and the car continues to roll without drive. This can happen without prior warning, even when no fault message appears on the dashboard. Owners report this from 60,000 to 140,000 kilometres, including on cars with regular servicing.
Is the Multitronic reliable in a used car
The reliability of the Multitronic in second-hand Audi A5 models is under pressure. The transmission is particularly vulnerable in early A5 models from 2007 to 2016.
The first-generation Multitronic, the VL300, regularly fails prematurely. Later versions such as the VL381F have improvements, but still struggle with sensor issues and mechatronics failures. This means that newer models are not free from technical complaints either.
The service history is decisive when buying used. Cars without evidence of regular servicing run significantly more risk of transmission problems. A Multitronic needs a complete oil change every 50,000 kilometres, including filter and a check of all components. If this documentation is missing, the likelihood of problems is high.
During a test drive you can track down weaknesses. Pay attention to the following points:
- Slipping under hard acceleration on the motorway
- Jerking when pulling away or slowing down
- Strange noises from the gearbox
- Delayed response when moving off
- Burning smell during or after driving
Always ask the seller to read out recent fault codes. These are stored error messages in the car’s electronics. Codes such as P0722 and P171E indicate transmission problems. Also check whether any fluid is leaking under the car and, if possible, smell the dipstick.
How much do Multitronic repairs cost
Repair costs vary greatly, depending on how serious the fault is. A complete replacement of the Multitronic will quickly cost between 4,000 and 7,000 euros. This makes it one of the most expensive repairs on the Audi A5.
Fortunately there are cheaper alternatives. Replacing only the mechatronics or fitting a repair kit for the solenoids (control valves in the automatic gearbox) saves thousands of euros. This targeted repair costs between 1,000 and 2,500 euros, depending on the workshop and parts. Reconditioning the TCU (transmission control unit or electronic control unit of the automatic gearbox) is also possible without complete replacement.
Preventive maintenance is the cheapest option. A full oil service with filter costs around 300 to 500 euros. Always use the correct ATF oil specified by Audi. The wrong oil accelerates wear and causes new problems. Filling is done via the breather point at an engine temperature of 30 to 50 degrees Celsius.
Some owners choose to temporarily top up ATF oil when the level is low. This can temporarily ease symptoms, but does not solve the underlying cause. Always trace the source of the problem to prevent escalation.
Should you avoid Multitronic when buying
The advice is clear: be very cautious with an Audi A5 with a Multitronic transmission. The risks are considerable, especially with models that do not have a complete service history.
Certainly avoid examples with under 100,000 kilometres and no service records. At this mileage the first problems start to appear. Without proof of regular servicing you run a high risk of expensive repairs shortly after purchase.
Consider alternatives with manual or S tronic transmissions. These are significantly more reliable and cause fewer problems. The S tronic is a dual-clutch automatic that does not use CVT technology and is therefore much more robust.
If you still choose a Multitronic, take the following measures:
- Have a thorough diagnosis carried out in advance by a specialist
- Check all service records for oil changes
- Ask the current owner about any previous complaints
- Do an extensive test drive at different speeds
- Factor in a buffer for repair costs in your budget
Aggressive driving and heavy towing accelerate wear. If you regularly tow a trailer or drive in a sporty way, the Multitronic is not a sensible choice. The transmission is designed for comfortable driving, not for high loads.
‘ Early intervention prevents costly damage. ’
Practical tips to limit problems
If you already own an Audi A5 with Multitronic, you can extend its lifespan with targeted maintenance. Early intervention prevents costly damage.
Regularly check the oil level and quality. The oil should be clear red. Yellow-brown discolouration or a burning smell indicates problems. Replace the oil immediately, even if the service interval has not yet been reached. The filter must be replaced at every major service.
After every oil change, carry out a flushing and bleeding procedure. This ensures that air bubbles are removed from the system and that the new oil flows properly through all channels. Hold each gear for two seconds at a time. This ensures that the new oil is properly distributed throughout the system. Also lubricate the O-rings to prevent leaks.
Watch out for warning signs while driving. At the first signs of slipping, jerking or strange noises you must act immediately. Scan the car for fault codes and have them read by a specialist. Many problems are still relatively easy to solve in an early stage.
Check the wiring at the mechatronics. Some faults are caused by cracked or damaged cables. This is relatively easy to repair and prevents you from having to replace an expensive mechatronics unit. Owners report that this problem is sometimes solved by re-soldering the wiring.
Avoid situations that put a heavy load on the transmission. Aggressive acceleration, sudden braking and high loads from towing trailers accelerate wear. Drive calmly and anticipate traffic situations to spare the Multitronic.
What do user experiences say
Owners of the Audi A5 with Multitronic share familiar experiences on forums. The most frequently mentioned complaint is sudden failure without prior warning. This happens even with cars that have recently had a major service.
Some owners report that their transmission no longer worked after a mechatronics repair due to damaged wiring. This problem was solved by targeted repair of the electrical connections, without having to replace the entire mechatronics unit.
Many users warn about the so-called ‘dead gearbox’ after 100,000 kilometres. This phenomenon occurs mainly with 2008 models, both with the 2.7 TDI (diesel engine) and the 3.2 V6 engine. Regular servicing can extend the lifespan, but does not guarantee trouble-free mileage.
The consensus is clear: with good care the Multitronic will keep working for longer, but ignoring early signs leads to escalation. Owners who respond immediately to symptoms limit the damage and costs considerably.
Find out more about the Audi A5
The Multitronic issue is only one aspect of the Audi A5. On the Carnews website you will find extensive information about other common technical complaints, maintenance tips and buying advice for various model years. Discover which versions are the most reliable and what to look out for in particular when buying used. Delve into the experiences of other owners and make a well-considered decision when making your next purchase.
Frequently asked questions
The most common problems with the Multitronic transmission in an Audi A5 are slipping (revs rise without a corresponding increase in speed) and jerking and vibration while driving and changing ratio. In addition, overheating and faults in the mechatronics/TCU are common, which can lead to fault codes and limp mode. Wear of the belt and seals can also cause pressure loss, eventually leading to partially or completely losing drive. These problems often occur between roughly 60,000 and 140,000 km, especially if the transmission oil has been insufficiently or incorrectly maintained.
Early symptoms include slipping when accelerating (revs shoot up but the car picks up slowly) and mild jerks or vibrations when moving off or at a constant speed. Also look out for delayed or hesitant “shift moments”, sometimes with a slight burning smell from the oil. Overheating or warning messages/fault codes relating to the transmission also indicate emerging problems. If you notice any of these signals, have the oil level and fault codes checked immediately to prevent more serious damage.
For common Multitronic problems on an Audi A5 (slipping, jerking, sensor/mechatronics faults) you should roughly budget €800–€1,500 for a mechatronics overhaul or solenoid/TCU repair. A complete overhaul of the Multitronic gearbox with belt, seals and labour usually comes in between €2,000 and €3,500. In the worst case, if it is replaced with a reconditioned or new gearbox via the dealer, costs can rise to around €4,000–€6,000. Prices vary per specialist, region and the extent of the damage.
Have the Multitronic oil with filter changed preventively every 50,000 km using exactly the ATF specification prescribed by Audi and at the correct filling temperature, and regularly check for leaks and oil that smells burnt. Avoid heavy towing, a lot of stop-and-go traffic with excessive slipping, and aggressive acceleration to prevent overheating and additional belt wear. At the first symptoms of slipping, jerking or fault codes, have a specialist check and repair the mechatronics and wiring immediately, instead of continuing to drive. When buying a used A5, only choose examples with a demonstrable transmission service history so that you start with a healthy baseline.
Yes, early Audi A5 models with Multitronic from roughly 2007–2012 (including the 2.7 TDI and 3.2 V6) in particular are known to be more prone to wear and faults. With these first-generation Multitronics (such as the VL300), problems like slipping, jerking, vibration and mechatronics failure occur relatively often, typically around 60,000–140,000 km. Later versions (such as the VL381F, roughly after the facelift) are slightly improved, but can still suffer from sensor and mechatronics issues. Regardless of model year, examples without demonstrable, timely oil servicing are the most risky.