Audi S5 B8.5 After 100K Miles – What to Expect

If you’re eyeing or already driving an Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles, you’re probably wondering what’s next. Is it still worth it? Will it fall apart? Can it still perform? Here’s the honest, no-fluff breakdown from the perspective of real-world owners, gearheads, and longtime Audi enthusiasts.

Why the Audi S5 B8.5 Still Shines After 100K

The S5—especially the B8.5 generation with the 3.0T supercharged V6—is a true driver’s car. It’s quick, planted, and loaded with character. Even with over 100,000 miles on the odometer, many of these machines continue to drive better than newer cars in the same price range.

Here’s what typically still works great:

• Supercharged V6 still pulls hard
• Quattro all-wheel drive remains confident and sure-footed
• ZF 8-speed transmission (or 6-speed manual!) stays strong if serviced
• Cabin quality, seats, and trim hold up incredibly well

In fact, most owners say the Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles still turns heads—and turns corners with ease. It’s built like a tank with the soul of a grand tourer. The exhaust note still gives you that deep growl under throttle, and the handling remains tight when maintained properly. The steering feel is direct, and you won’t find many other luxury coupes from 2013–2017 that offer this blend of sharpness and refinement.

What You Should Service or Watch For

Once you’re past that 100K milestone, it’s all about preventative maintenance. Here are the most common issues:

1. PCV Valve and Oil Separator

These parts wear out and can cause vacuum leaks, rough idle, or oil in the intake system. Don’t wait—replace them. These jobs are relatively inexpensive compared to the consequences of letting them fail, and they restore smooth engine operation. Your Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles will thank you with better throttle response and idle.

2. Water Pump and Thermostat

Plastic OEM components eventually crack or fail. If they haven’t been replaced yet, they’re due. It’s often wise to upgrade to an aluminum water pump to prevent repeat failures. Many owners replace these around 90K miles preemptively, but if you’re buying an Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles, double-check service history or plan on doing it yourself.

3. Carbon Buildup

Direct injection leads to carbon deposits on intake valves. Walnut blasting every 80K–100K miles restores power and throttle response. Expect slightly rough cold starts and sluggish acceleration if your engine is clogged. Many performance shops offer this service bundled with spark plug changes and PCV replacement—worth every penny.

4. Supercharger Belt & Pulley

The supercharger system is strong, but the belt and tensioners need servicing. A slipping belt kills performance. Some owners opt to upgrade these while installing a smaller pulley as part of a Stage 2 build. Either way, keeping the system tensioned properly is crucial.

5. Suspension Wear

Control arms, bushings, and sway bar links often go soft after 100K. New OEM or upgraded components bring the tight handling back. If your Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles feels floaty, clunks over bumps, or doesn’t corner like it used to, the suspension is the first place to look.

6. Timing Chain Rattle (Rare but Costly)

While not as common on the B8.5 as earlier engines, the timing chain guides can still wear. If you hear a rattle on cold starts, get it checked ASAP. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious engine damage.

7. Differential & Transmission Fluid

Audi calls some of these fluids “lifetime,” but that doesn’t mean forever. Changing them around 100K is cheap insurance to keep things smooth. Your Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles will shift better and last longer.

8. Brake System

Rotors may warp or corrode over time. High-performance rotors and ceramic pads give a huge upgrade in feel. Consider stainless steel brake lines too—they improve pedal feel dramatically, especially under spirited driving.

Pro Tips to Extend Life After 100K

• Use high-quality synthetic oil every 5K–7K miles
• Upgrade to a metal water pump and reinforced thermostat housing
• Consider an oil catch can to reduce future carbon buildup
• Regularly inspect vacuum lines and intake hoses
• Keep tires and alignment fresh for the best driving experience
• Don’t ignore minor warning lights—scan codes and fix early
• Keep up with brake fluid and coolant flushes every 2–3 years

If you follow these tips, your Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles can easily cruise to 150K or beyond while still feeling like a premium machine.

Is It Worth Modding at This Mileage?

Yes—if it’s in good shape. The Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles still responds incredibly well to basic mods:

• Stage 1 or Stage 2 Tune: Big power gains with supporting mods
• Pulley Upgrade: Boost your boost! More torque and better throttle
• Cold Air Intake: More supercharger sound, slightly better airflow
• Exhaust System: Bring out the beast with better tone and less restriction
• Suspension Upgrades: Coilovers or sway bars to sharpen the ride
• Brakes: Big brake kits or upgraded rotors/pads for better stopping power

Some owners go even further with upgraded heat exchangers, larger injectors, and upgraded fuel pumps—especially if they’re chasing big dyno numbers. But even with mild bolt-ons, the Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles becomes a sleeper that surprises many modern sports sedans.

Interior & Tech Longevity

The B8.5 interior design holds up well. Leather seats resist major wear, especially in Prestige trims. The MMI infotainment system still functions, though retrofitting wireless CarPlay/Android Auto adds much-needed modern convenience. Buttons, knobs, and climate control tend to last, though the occasional sticky dial may pop up.

LED lighting upgrades, a new shift knob, and fresh floormats can give the cabin a much newer feel without a big investment.

Final Word

The Audi S5 B8.5 after 100K miles is not past its prime. With smart maintenance and some choice mods, it can feel faster, tighter, and more exciting than ever. Just be prepared to invest a bit in keeping it fresh—and it’ll reward you with performance and luxury that new cars struggle to match at twice the price.