A Guide to Direct Ignition Coils for the 2008-2014 Audi A5
Experiencing engine misfires or a rough idle? Your A5's ignition coils are the most likely cause.
- Ignition coil failure is extremely common on 2008-2014 A5s and is the primary cause of misfires.
- For reliability, it is strongly recommended to replace all coils and spark plugs at the same time.
- This is a very easy DIY repair that requires basic tools and can be completed in under 30 minutes, saving hundreds in labor.
- Choose OEM supplier brands like Bremi, Denso, or Hella for the best balance of quality and value.
Is Your Audi A5 Misfiring? It's Probably an Ignition Coil
Ignition coil failure is one of the most common issues for 2008-2014 Audi A5 owners, particularly on the 2.0T engine. These parts are exposed to extreme heat and constant high voltage, causing them to wear out over time. When a coil fails, it can no longer deliver the strong spark needed for proper combustion, leading to a noticeable drop in engine performance and a flashing Check Engine Light.
Known Issue: Technical Service Bulletin for Bosch Coils
Audi issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2033561/2) for premature failure on some early Bosch-made ignition coils. This affected coils with part numbers like 06H 905 115 A and 06H 905 115 B. The official remedy was to replace all four coils with an updated part number, such as 07K905715F or a newer revision, to prevent future failures.
Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Engine Misfires: The most common symptom. The car may feel like it's jerking, sputtering, or hesitating, especially during acceleration.
- Flashing Check Engine Light: A misfire will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light. If it's flashing, it signals a severe misfire that could damage other components. Common codes include P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304.
- Rough Idle: The engine may shake or vibrate noticeably when the car is stopped.
- Reduced Power: The car will feel sluggish and less responsive because one or more cylinders isn't firing correctly.
- Difficulty Starting: In some cases, multiple weak or dead coils can make it hard for the engine to start.
Pro Tip: Swap Coils to Confirm the Problem
If your scan tool shows a misfire on a single cylinder (e.g., P0302 for cylinder 2), you can confirm the coil is bad before buying parts. Simply swap the suspected coil with one from a different cylinder (like cylinder 3). Clear the codes and start the engine. If the fault code changes to P0303, you've confirmed the ignition coil is the problem.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
Not all aftermarket coils are created equal. For a critical part like this, brand reputation matters. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available:
- OEM Supplier Quality (Recommended): Bremi, Denso, Hella
Brands like Bremi, Bosch, and Eldor are original equipment manufacturers (OEM) for Audi, meaning they make the genuine parts. Denso and Hella are also highly respected brands known for OEM-equivalent quality. Choosing from this tier gives you a part that is often identical to the one from the dealer, just in a different box and at a better price. The popular "red top" coils, often made by Bremi, are a well-regarded OEM+ upgrade from vehicles like the Audi R8. - Standard Aftermarket: Accel, Beck Arnley, Facet, Prenco
These brands offer a balance of price and performance. Beck Arnley is a parts re-packager, so the component inside could be from various sources. These are generally reliable options for a daily driver. - Economy Brands: Vemo
Vemo is known as a budget-friendly option. While they can be a good value for less critical repairs, for a component that is a known failure point on the A5, sticking to an OEM-quality brand is a safer long-term investment.
Replacement Cost
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost (Per Coil) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $75 - $150 |
| New Aftermarket | $39 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $20 - $40 (as part of a larger job) |
Note: Labor costs are estimated for replacing a single coil. Total shop replacement for all coils can range from $260 to $400+. However, this is a very simple DIY job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
Yes. It is highly recommended to replace all four (or six, for V6 models) ignition coils at the same time. Coils on your engine have been subjected to the same heat and wear, so when one fails, the others are often not far behind. This saves you from repeated repairs in the near future.
Should I replace my spark plugs at the same time?
Absolutely. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on the ignition coils, causing them to fail prematurely. Since you already have the coils out, replacing the spark plugs adds only a few minutes to the job and ensures the entire ignition system is healthy.
Is replacing ignition coils a DIY job?
Yes, this is one of the easiest DIY jobs you can do on your Audi A5. The ignition coils are located directly on top of the engine, held in by friction or a single small bolt. No special tools are required beyond a basic socket set, and the entire job for all coils can be done in under 30 minutes.
What are the "red top" ignition coils I see online?
The "red top" coils are genuine OEM parts that come standard on high-performance models like the Audi R8. They have a reputation for being more robust and are a popular, direct-fit upgrade for the 2.0T engine. While they may not add power to a stock engine, they are an excellent OEM-quality choice known for reliability.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 07K905715F 07K905715G 06H905115B 06H905115A 06E905115E
Direct ignition 'coil-on-plug' design. One coil required per cylinder.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A5 Misfiring? It's Probably an Ignition Coil
- Known Issue: Technical Service Bulletin for Bosch Coils
- Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Pro Tip: Swap Coils to Confirm the Problem
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Replacement Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions
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