The Audi A5 gearbox plays a central role in the behaviour of this coupé, which blends refinement with sporting character. Unveiled in Geneva in 2007, the Audi A5 delivers genuine driving pleasure — provided its transmission remains in perfect condition. As soon as a gearbox problem arises, prompt action is essential to preserve the reliability and safety of your A5. This guide covers the types of gearbox available, the symptoms of failure, and the solutions available on an exchange basis.
How do you know if your Audi A5 gearbox needs replacing?
Your A5's engine transmits its power to the wheels through the gearbox. If the gearbox is in poor condition, the coupé will no longer perform correctly, handling will deteriorate, and your safety can no longer be guaranteed.
A loss of responsiveness is often down to oil quality or lubrication: leaks and contamination can prevent the gears from changing smoothly. An oil change may be sufficient in such cases. However, when the gearbox has suffered more serious damage, replacement must be considered. Symptoms can take various forms: a suspicious rumbling when engaging a gear, a persistent burning smell, grinding noises, or erratic automatic gear selection.
An automatic gearbox problem does not always present the same signs as a fault on a manual gearbox. At the first sign of any concern about your A5's transmission, take it to a professional for a thorough diagnosis.
What types of gearbox are available for the Audi A5?
Since its launch in 2007, the Audi A5 has been offered with a wide range of engines and gearboxes. Identifying yours is essential to choosing the right part.
On the petrol side, the early 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI models came with a 6-speed manual gearbox, with the Multitronic available as an option. The more powerful engines (2.0 TFSI 211 hp, 3.2 FSI 265 hp, 3.0 272 hp) came as standard with a 6-speed manual, with a Multitronic or S Tronic available as an option.
On the diesel side, the 2.7 TDI 190 hp and 3.0 TDI 204 hp offered a choice between a 6-speed manual and the Multitronic. The 3.0 TDI 240 hp could be specified with an S Tronic or a 6-speed manual, with the S Tronic also fitted to certain 3.0 TDI 245 hp variants.
On more recent models, you will find the BVM6, S Tronic, Tiptronic and Multitronic depending on the version. The S Tronic is fitted primarily to the A5 35 TDI 163 hp, 40 TFSI 190 hp, 40 TDI 190 hp and 45 TFSI quattro 245 hp, while the Tiptronic is found mainly on the A5 45 TDI quattro 231 hp and 50 TDI quattro 286 hp.
These technologies work in different ways: the Tiptronic allows manual intervention over gear selection, the dual-clutch S Tronic delivers seamless gear changes with no interruption in drive, and the Multitronic uses a continuously variable system. For more detail, see our guide on the differences between manual and automatic gearboxes.
How do you repair an Audi A5 gearbox?
A diagnosis must be carried out by a qualified professional — whether an independent mechanic or a dealer — in order to identify the precise cause of the fault. When routine work such as adjustment or an oil change is not enough, the gearbox will need to be removed.
This operation requires specialist tools and a thorough understanding of the specific gearbox involved. On an automatic model, the mechanic will need to determine, for example, whether the issue lies with a sensor or another specific component. The checks and adjustments that follow refitting are equally demanding: precision is everything when it comes to ensuring optimum performance. You can order the part yourself from our range of gearboxes and simply entrust the labour to your mechanic.
Sourcing an Audi A5 gearbox on an exchange basis or second-hand
You can ask your mechanic for advice, but the best approach is to purchase the part yourself, opting for either a second-hand or an exchange Audi A5 gearbox. At EDEN BOITES, every unit undergoes extensive manual checks — a systematic precaution to guarantee quality.
If the exact reference for your A5 is not in stock, our experts can fully rebuild your own gearbox. For other models in the range, take a look at the Audi A4 gearbox and the Audi S5 gearbox.
Frequently asked questions about the Audi A5 gearbox
Which gearbox does the Audi A5 3.0 TDI 240 hp have?
This version can be fitted with either a dual-clutch S Tronic gearbox or a 6-speed manual, depending on the vehicle's original specification.
Can an oil change fix my Audi A5 gearbox?
Yes, when the loss of responsiveness is caused by contaminated oil or a leak. Where there is significant mechanical damage, replacement is necessary.
What is the difference between the S Tronic, Tiptronic and Multitronic on the A5?
The S Tronic is a dual-clutch gearbox, the Tiptronic is a conventional automatic with the option of manual intervention, and the Multitronic is a continuously variable transmission.
Can I have the gearbox delivered to another EU country?
Yes. You can place your order from any country and have your Audi A5 gearbox delivered to an address in France or anywhere in the European Union.
Why choose EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES reconditions and selects gearboxes for the full Audi range, including the Audi A5. Our exchange gearboxes come with a warranty of up to 24 months, and payment can be spread over up to 10 instalments. Delivery is available throughout France and the European Union, with a lead time confirmed on quote, to your home address or directly to your mechanic. Our exchange gearboxes are offered with a satisfaction or money-back guarantee, subject to our Terms and Conditions. Request your personalised quote for your Audi A5 gearbox today.
