A Guide to the Engine Water Pump for the 2008-2017 Audi A5
Everything an owner should know about this common failure point, from symptoms and recalls to choosing the right aftermarket replacement.
- Water pump failure on the 2008-2017 Audi A5 is a common problem, especially the plastic pumps on 2.0T engines.
- Key symptoms include coolant leaks (pink/green fluid), engine overheating, and whining noises from the engine.
- It is highly recommended to upgrade from the failure-prone OEM plastic pump to an aftermarket version with a metal (aluminum) housing for long-term reliability.
- Always replace the water pump, thermostat, and drive belt as a complete kit to prevent repeat repairs.
Is Your Audi A5 Water Pump Failing?
Water pump failure is a widely known issue for the 2008-2017 Audi A5, particularly for models equipped with the 2.0T TFSI engine. The original equipment (OEM) water pumps on these engines often feature a plastic housing. Over many cycles of heating up and cooling down, this plastic can become brittle, crack, or warp. Additionally, oil leaks from above, such as from a valve cover gasket, can drip onto the pump's gasket, causing it to swell and compromise the seal, leading to leaks. This has made water pump replacement a common repair for A5 owners.
Key Failure Symptoms
🎬 Watch: How to diagnose a failing water pump- Coolant Leaks: This is the most common sign. You may notice puddles of pink, green, or orange fluid under the front of your car. Sometimes, the leak is slow, leaving a white or colored crusty residue on the engine itself before it drips to the ground.
- Engine Overheating: If the pump fails, it can't circulate coolant. Your temperature gauge may climb into the red zone, or a warning light will appear on your dashboard. If this happens, you should stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so to prevent engine damage.
- Whining or Grinding Noises: A high-pitched whining or a lower grinding sound coming from the front of the engine can indicate a failing bearing inside the water pump. This noise often gets louder as you accelerate.
- Low Coolant Warning Light: A persistent low coolant light, even after topping off the fluid, points to a leak somewhere in the system, and the water pump is a primary suspect.
- Steam from the Hood: If the engine is overheating significantly, the coolant can boil, creating steam that escapes from under the hood. This is a critical symptom requiring you to stop the vehicle immediately.
Known Issues, Recalls & TSBs
Main Water Pump Leaks: Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for coolant leaks from the main engine water pump on various models, including the A5. A TSB is a notice to dealers about a known problem and repair procedure. This confirms that leaks are a recognized issue. The primary cause on 2.0T engines is often the original plastic housing cracking or its gaskets failing.
Recall on Auxiliary Coolant Pump: There is a significant safety recall (NHTSA Campaign 18V229, Audi code 19M1 or 19N4) for some 2013-2017 Audi A5 models with the 2.0L TFSI engine. This recall is for the electric auxiliary coolant pump, not the main engine-driven one. This smaller pump can get blocked with debris, overheat, and create a fire risk. The fix involves a software update or pump replacement. Check with an Audi dealer to see if your vehicle is affected.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Water Pump
When replacing a failed water pump on an Audi A5, especially the 2.0T models, you have a choice between another OEM-style plastic pump and an upgraded aftermarket pump with a metal (aluminum) housing. Given that the plastic housing is the primary failure point, choosing a metal replacement is a highly recommended and durable solution.
🎬 See the benefits of upgrading to an aluminum water pumpAftermarket Brand Tiers
Not all aftermarket brands are created equal. For a critical part like a water pump, quality matters. Here’s a breakdown of available brands based on owner feedback and industry reputation.
- Top Tier (OEM Quality or Better): Brands in this category are often original equipment suppliers to Audi and other German automakers. They are known for excellent fit, high-quality materials, and long-term reliability. Many offer kits with upgraded metal housings.
Brands: Graf, Saleri, Hella, Pierburg, CRP (Rein). - Mid Tier (Reliable Aftermarket): These are well-known, reputable brands that offer a good balance of quality and value. They are a solid choice for most repairs.
Brands: Gates, GMB. - Economy Tier (Use with Caution): These brands compete on price, but reviews are often mixed. While they can be a budget-friendly option, there are reports of fitment issues and shorter lifespans. For a labor-intensive job like an A5 water pump, using a lower-tier part may be a gamble.
Brands: URO Parts, DNJ Engine Components, US Motor Works. - Unknown: Some brands have very little public feedback available for this specific application.
Brands: DJ Rock, Skyward.
Pro Tip: Replace as a Kit
It is highly recommended to replace the water pump and thermostat as a single assembly, as they are housed together on many A5 engines. Many quality aftermarket kits, like those from Rein or Graf, include the water pump, thermostat, temperature sensor, new belt, and all necessary gaskets and bolts for the job. This ensures all related components are new and prevents having to do the job twice if another part fails soon after.
Cost to Replace an Audi A5 Water Pump
The cost can vary significantly based on your engine, location, and whether you choose an independent shop or a dealership. The job is labor-intensive, which makes up a large portion of the total cost.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $62 - $510 |
| New OEM Part | ~$330 - $976 |
| Shop Labor | $588 - $913 |
| Total Professional Replacement | ~$800 - $1,900+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I perform a water pump replacement myself?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, this is a feasible job, but it is complex. It requires draining the coolant, removing several components to gain access, and special tools like Torx sockets and hose clamp pliers. For the 2.0T engine, the pump is driven by a small toothed belt on the back of the engine, which can be tricky to access. The job can take 3-5 hours for someone familiar with the process. If you are not comfortable with extensive engine work, professional installation is recommended.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step 2.0T water pump and thermostat replacementShould I buy a plastic or metal water pump?
For the 2.0T engines that came with a plastic water pump, it is strongly recommended to upgrade to an aftermarket version with an aluminum housing. The plastic is a known failure point, and a metal replacement provides a more durable, long-term solution to prevent future leaks.
Do I need to replace the thermostat at the same time?
Yes. On most 2008-2017 Audi A5 engines, the water pump and thermostat are integrated into a single housing assembly. Replacing them together is standard practice. Most quality aftermarket kits include both components.
What type of coolant should I use?
Always use a phosphate-free, silicate-free coolant that meets Audi's G12, G12++, or G13 specification. Using the wrong type of coolant can lead to corrosion and premature failure of cooling system components, including the new water pump. Do not mix coolant types or use universal coolants.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06H121026DD 06H121026DR 06H121026CQ 06H121026CF 06L121012L 06E121018B
Varies by engine (e.g., 2.0T, 3.0T, 3.2L). The most common failure is on the 2.0T TFSI engine, which uses a small, toothed belt to drive the pump. Aftermarket upgrades often feature an aluminum housing instead of the OEM plastic. The assembly typically includes the thermostat.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Audi A5: