A Guide to Direct Ignition Coils for the 2013-2018 Audi RS5
Keep your high-revving 4.2L V8 performing at its peak by understanding when and how to replace your ignition coils.
- Replace all eight ignition coils and spark plugs at the same time for reliability and performance.
- Stick to OEM-supplier brands like Bosch, Hella, Bremi, Denso, or Eldor for this vehicle.
- A flashing Check Engine Light indicates a severe misfire; pull over and shut off the engine to prevent damage.
- The replacement is a manageable DIY job, but an ignition coil puller tool is highly recommended to prevent damage.
Is Your Audi RS5 Ignition Coil Failing?
Ignition coils are wear-and-tear items that eventually need replacement. On the high-performance V8 in the RS5, a failing coil can quickly ruin the driving experience. The most common sign of a bad ignition coil is an engine misfire, which can feel like a stutter or hesitation during acceleration. 🎬 Watch this video to learn more about bad ignition coil symptoms. You may also notice a rough idle, reduced engine power, and worse fuel economy. If a coil fails completely, the Check Engine Light will almost certainly illuminate, and it may even flash, indicating a severe misfire that could damage other components like the catalytic converters.
Check Engine Light Codes for Misfires
A diagnostic scanner can read codes that point to ignition problems. A general random misfire code is P0300. Cylinder-specific codes range from P0301 (Cylinder 1) to P0308 (Cylinder 8). You might also see codes between P0350 and P0362, which point directly to a fault in the ignition coil circuit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing ignition coils on your RS5, you have several options. While you can always purchase a Genuine Audi part, many aftermarket brands offer excellent quality, sometimes from the same manufacturer that supplies Audi.
For a vehicle like the RS5, it is wise to stick with established brands known for supplying European automakers. Brands like Bosch, Hella, Bremi, and Denso are often considered OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or OES (Original Equipment Supplier) quality. Eldor is another known OEM supplier for this part. These brands are engineered to meet the specific demands of your vehicle's ignition system. Other brands like Beck Arnley, Facet, Prenco, and Vemo are also available, but may be less common in the Audi community and their long-term reliability is less documented in forums. For a performance-critical part, choosing an OEM-level supplier is a safe bet.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
If one ignition coil fails due to age and mileage, the others are likely not far behind. To ensure consistent performance and avoid future misfires, it is highly recommended to replace all eight ignition coils at the same time. It is also the perfect time to replace your spark plugs, as they must be removed to access the coils anyway.
Cost of Replacing 2013-2018 Audi RS5 Ignition Coils
| Part Type | Price Range (Single Coil) | Price Range (Set of 8) |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $60 - $100 | $480 - $800 |
| New Aftermarket (OEM Supplier) | $45 - $75 | $360 - $600 |
| New Aftermarket (Value) | $39 - $55 | $312 - $440 |
*Prices are estimates and may vary based on supplier and brand. 🎬 See a breakdown of common symptoms and typical replacement costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 2013-2018 RS5 ignition coils?
No, there are no specific recalls for ignition coils on the 2013-2018 Audi RS5 according to NHTSA data. While other recalls exist for this model, none pertain to the ignition coils themselves.
Is this a difficult DIY job?
No, replacing the ignition coils and spark plugs on the 4.2L V8 is a straightforward job for a DIY mechanic. It requires removing the engine cover and air intake boxes to gain access. The coils are simply pulled off the spark plugs after disconnecting the electrical connector. A special ignition coil puller tool is recommended to avoid damaging the plastic valve covers. The plastic electrical connectors can become brittle from engine heat and may break during removal, so be careful.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step DIY guide to replace your coils and plugs.What are common problems related to RS5 ignition coils?
The primary issue is simple failure from heat and age, leading to misfires. Another potential problem is oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets into the spark plug tubes, which can damage the ignition coils and plugs. When replacing coils, it's important to check for oil in the tubes. Also, the plastic clips on the wiring harness connectors can become brittle and break.
Should I buy "upgraded" performance ignition coils?
For a stock or lightly tuned RS5, high-quality OEM-supplier coils are more than sufficient. While some aftermarket brands like APR claim higher energy output, the performance benefit on a non-race engine is generally negligible. Reliability and proper voltage are more important than a claimed 10% increase in energy.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06E905115G 06E905115F 06E905115E 06E905115D 06E905115C 06E905115B 06E905115A
Direct ignition coil, coil-on-plug type, 4-pin connector. The B8.5 RS5 uses eight individual coils, one for each 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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