Timing chains are standard on all Audi A5 engines from the model years 2008 through 2021. From 2008 to 2021, every Audi A5 engine is interference.
In a combustion engine, the timing belt (or chain) maintains the correct synchronization between the various engine parts.
Serious engine damage may result if the belt or chain strains or breaks.
Timing chains are typically rated for the lifespan of the engine, while timing belts have a suggested replacement interval, however they do need to be inspected on occasion.
Understanding the timing system in your car or a potential purchase might help you save future costs and hassles.
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In This Article...
Is the 2010 Audi A5 equipped with a timing chain or belt?
As long as the engine oil is kept in good condition, the timing chain in the Audi A5 2.0 TFSI engine should not require any maintenance.
Does the 2.0 TDI Audi have a timing chain or belt?
In 2009, on the occasion of its 100th birthday, Audi unveiled the A5 Sportback. Although the five-door hatchback was scarcely revolutionary, it wasn’t a bad way to mark the completion of the first century of automobile production. The A5 Sportback, which was based on the brand-new A4 that had debuted the year before, combined style and hatchback functionality in a package that was reasonably priced. Sportback prices have dipped as the earliest cars are now enjoying their fourth birthdays. There are many cars with a lot of miles on them, but the car is remarkably simple to own, if not necessarily inexpensive.
History
In October 2009, the first Sportbacks were delivered. Customers had a choice of 2.0-liter TFSI, 3.2-liter FSI, 2.0-liter TDI 170, or 3.0-liter TDI diesel engines. From spring 2010, performance-hungry customers could purchase an S5 Sportback. It possessed a 3.0 V6 petrol turbocharged engine with 328 bhp, and while it lacked spirit, it was quick and capable. The 2.0 TDIe engine was released in spring 2012 and offered 134 or 163 horsepower. At the same time, a new SE Technik trim was introduced. The Sportback range underwent an upgrade in October 2011. Along with the cosmetic changes, Audi expanded its lineup of engines with the addition of the 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TDI 177, and 3.0 TDI 204.
Alternatives
Audi’s own A4 Avant estate, the BMW 3 Series Touring, and the Mercedes C-Class estate are competitors. None of them are inexpensive to buy or operate, despite the fact that they are all very well made, have terrific engines, and present a beautiful image. The Volkswagen Passat, often known as CC, possesses the A5 Sportback’s practicality but not its flair. More useful is the VW Passat estate, although the Honda Accord Tourer is also intriguing. Diesel Sportbacks are available in almost six to one more than petrol automobiles, and about two-thirds of them are manual transmissions. You may purchase an early example for about $12,000 if you don’t mind paying a six-figure mileage. It will probably be a 2.0 TDI SE. You must pay at least 14,000 if you limit the mileage to 60,000. Only S5s, which start at $28,000, are likely to be found with V6 gasoline engines. From 20,000, the 3.0 V6 TDI is a wiser choice.
Running costs
With variable servicing, all Sportbacks can go up to two years or 18,000 miles between visits to the shop. Hardly driven vehicles will require more frequent maintenance. Services range from minor to significant, costing 159 and 309 for a four-cylinder gasoline or diesel, respectively. At 40,000 miles (140), autos require a transmission oil change, and every two years, fresh brake fluid is needed (59). The only 2.0-liter TDI model features a cambelt, which must be replaced every 75,000 miles or five years (it costs 500, including a fresh water pump). Each service should include checking the air conditioning. A re-gas costs $79 dollars.
When should the timing belt of an Audi A5 be changed?
Although timing belts are important, they don’t necessarily need to be replaced on a regular basis unless specifically advised to do so in your Audi owner’s manual. Between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, some automakers advise changing the timing belt, while others don’t. Many timing belts available now can last 100,000 miles or more before they need to be replaced.
Is there a timing chain or belt on my Audi?
So what distinguishes a timing chain from a timing belt? Both a timing chain and belt perform the same basic function. These mechanisms are created to maintain the relative position of the valves opening and closing to the position of the piston as the engine is running, regardless of whether you drive a Porsche, Mercedes Benz, or BMW with an internal timing chain, or an Audi or Volkswagen with an external timing belt. When a valve is opened at the incorrect time, it may come into contact with the piston and cause a catastrophic engine failure.
The piston will raise (building compression) and the valves will open precisely, allowing air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber and exhaust to depart in less than one thousandth of a second in an engine with perfectly timed ignition. When valves open or close prematurely or lately due to a timing issue, the piston will be driven into the valve, most frequently bending the valve and possibly punching a hole in the piston crown, rendering the engine worthless. These fixes could cost as little as $4,000 to $5,000 or, depending on the engine, much more.
An internal timing chain is used by brands including Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. These chains are stronger and less prone to break on their own. The same outcome is more frequently experienced when other chain-holding components, including chain tensioners and chain guides, fail. Check engine lights and a rattling sound, which is typically heard while starting an engine, are early warning indicators of a breakdown.
Initially using timing chains, Audi and Volkswagen switched to an external timing belt in the 1980s, 1990s, and the majority of the 2000s (now returning to chain drive systems). The timing belt is simpler to inspect and replace than the timing chain. On most models, replacing a timing belt with all associated parts (including a water pump on most models) costs between $700 and $900, which is significantly less than doing the same for a timing chain. The external timing belt’s drawback is that, like all belts, it eventually wears out and needs to be replaced. Timing belts should typically be changed every 80,000 miles, or every five years. Each time they are serviced or at least once a year, these should be visually inspected.
It’s vital to keep in mind that modern German performance cars, whether you drive a Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, or Audi, will last you for many miles and years if you maintain them properly. Count on our specialists in Austin for Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, and BMW repairs. Simply drop by German Auto Center and ask if you have any questions. At 8215 Research Blvd, we are conveniently and centrally situated, and we are here to help.
How much does an Audi timing chain replacement cost?
Best in Automotive Repair Timing chain tensioner replacements for Audi A4 Quattro models typically cost between $1,092 and $1,274. While materials are priced at $393, labor costs are predicted to range from $699 to $881. Taxes and other fees are not included in this range, nor are your particular model year or geographic area taken into account.
How frequently should my Audi A5 be serviced?
This group of Standard Maintenance services should be performed on your A5 every 20,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first.
When should the timing belt on an Audi be replaced?
Your cambelt needs to be replaced on a regular basis to maintain your Audi’s safety and performance at their highest levels. It is advised that you do it every five years or 75,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Is a timing chain or belt better?
Prior to making a purchase decision, you may be examining the specifications of various cars. What is the displacement of the engine? What type of brakes is it equipped with? How is the transmission handled? Exists a long-range AEB with it? Before making a decision, there are several factors you can compare between each car. We’ll be discussing timing chains and belts today.
The camshaft and crankshaft rotations are synchronized using timing chains or belts. As a result of the Overhead Cam (OHC) arrangement used by the majority of modern engines, the crankshaft and camshaft must be connected by a belt or chain. Timing belts or timing chains are also necessary for engines with push rod configurations (although shorter in length).
Some contend that the greater lifespan of timing chains makes them superior. Some contend that the cheaper replacement costs and quieter operation of timing belts make them superior. The problem is that when buying a car, you cannot select whether it will have a timing chain or belt. If you liked one timing system over the other, you’d have to purchase a new vehicle.
Consider a Perodua Myvi and a Proton Iriz as examples. An Iriz has a timing belt, whereas a Myvi has a timing chain. Does that mean that one car is better than the other? Does one require less upkeep than the other?
A: Timing chains outperform timing belts in strength. Timing links are also more durable. Timing belts are more affordable, simpler to replace, and quieter than timing chains.
A: Yes. usually only slightly. Since the gear teeth are worn out as well, fixing the timing chain also necessitates changing certain gears. Timing chains, however, do not require as frequent replacement as timing belts.
A: Yes. The engine oil must lubricate the timing chains. As a result, they live in a more contained structure. Consequently, it will take more effort to reach the timing chain. Timing belts are easier to service because they often only have a plastic cover to protect them.
A: Yes. The sprockets and gear teeth mesh. Over time, the chain stretch lengthens and the gear teeth begin to wear out. They eventually need to be replaced. A timing chain replacement does not, however, have a set replacement interval.
When the timing chain stretch could potentially harm the engine, the engine warning light will typically on. If that happens, turn off the engine. Chain strain could result in the chain jumping a gear tooth, throwing off the timing of the pistons and valves and resulting in some rough idling.
A: Yes. They must be replaced as a result around every 100,000 kilometers. Timing belts that aren’t maintained could rupture and seriously harm the engine (especially interference engines). Teeth that are worn down could potentially cause timing belts to slip.
What is the worst thing that could happen if the timing chain or belt breaks?
This is true for interference engines, which are smaller and more effective in their design. Timing belts tend to snap more frequently, although in most cases, if you change them on schedule, this issue shouldn’t arise.
A combination. A timing belt is used by an earlier RB26DETT. A timing chain is used by more recent VR38DETTs.
Timing belts and chains aren’t even used in some vehicles, like the Ferrari Enzo. Instead, they synchronize the valves with the engine rotation using a number of timing gears. Compared to timing chains, timing gears are louder.
To sum up:
- Timing chains are more expensive than timing belts but have a longer lifespan.
- Using one over the other has no impact on performance or fuel economy.
- Timing belts were mostly used in autos due to their lower cost. They function just as well.
- Timing chains may sag over time, resulting in gear teeth that “jump.”
- Teeth on timing belts can wear out and move. Timing belts are also more susceptible to breaking.
- Timing belt or timing chain failure can have disastrous effects on the engine.
- The lower operating noise of timing belts is an additional advantage.
No matter what type of timing system your car has, you should undertake routine maintenance to keep an eye on the condition of your timing belt or chain.