Guide to the 2018-2023 Audi A5 Engine Water Pump
Understand the common failure points of your A5's water pump and how to choose the right replacement part.
- The water pump on the 2018-2023 Audi A5 is a known failure point, primarily due to its plastic construction.
- Symptoms include coolant leaks (puddles or residue), a sweet smell, and low coolant warnings.
- It is critical to stop driving if the engine begins to overheat to avoid severe engine damage.
- Always replace the water pump and thermostat as a complete assembly. Consider an aftermarket kit with a metal housing for improved durability.
Is My Audi A5 Water Pump Failing?
For the 2018-2023 Audi A5, which uses the EA888 Gen 3 engine, the water pump is a known weak point. The original parts are often made with plastic housings that can crack or warp over many heat cycles. This leads to coolant leaks, which are the most common sign of failure. You might notice a few key symptoms before a complete failure occurs.
Key Symptoms of a Failing Water Pump:
- Low Coolant Warning Light: An intermittent or constant low coolant light on your dashboard is often the first sign.
- Visible Coolant Leaks: You may see puddles of pink or green fluid under the front of your car. Often, the leak is slow and evaporates on hot engine parts, leaving a pink or white crusty residue instead of a puddle.
- Sweet Smell: You might notice a sweet smell from the engine bay, which is the scent of burning coolant.
- Engine Overheating: If the pump fails completely, the engine temperature gauge will rise quickly, and you may get an overheating warning. Driving with an overheating engine can cause catastrophic damage.
A Known Issue: The Plastic Housing
The water pump and thermostat are typically a single, integrated unit on these engines. The primary cause of failure is the plastic material used in the original housing, which becomes brittle and cracks over time. A class-action lawsuit was filed concerning this issue on several Audi models, including the A5, alleging the thermoplastic water pump modules can fail prematurely.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Water Pump
When replacing a failed water pump, you have the choice between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part and an aftermarket part. For this specific issue, many owners and mechanics lean towards high-quality aftermarket options.
- OEM Parts: While a direct replacement, there are concerns that a new OEM pump may have the same plastic-related vulnerabilities as the original part that failed.
- Aftermarket Parts: Reputable aftermarket brands often address known OEM weaknesses. Some aftermarket pumps for the EA888 engine are available with metal (aluminum) housings that are more durable than the original plastic.
Brand Options: Gates vs. Hella
Both Gates and Hella are respected names in the auto parts industry.
- Gates: A well-known manufacturer of cooling system and drive belt components. Gates is often considered a reliable and cost-effective choice for replacement parts.
- Hella: A major German OEM supplier known for high-quality electronics and other components. Choosing a part from a brand with OEM supplier experience often provides confidence in its fit and function.
When choosing, prioritize a part with positive reviews from other Audi owners and consider options with upgraded materials, like a metal housing, if available.
Replace as a Kit
Since the water pump and thermostat are integrated, it is highly recommended to replace them together. Many aftermarket kits include the water pump, thermostat, seals, and necessary hardware for a complete job. This is also a good time to inspect the serpentine belt and tensioner for wear.
🎬 See how to install a new water pump on B9 models.Cost of Replacing an Audi A5 Water Pump
The cost can vary significantly based on your location and whether you use 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 Water Pump Kit | $96 - $171 |
| New OEM Water Pump Kit | $330 - $976 |
| Shop Labor | $622 - $913 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Aftermarket Part) | $718 - $1,084 |
| Total Estimated Cost (OEM Part at Dealer) | $1,598 - $1,889 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a recall on the 2018-2023 Audi A5 water pump?
There is no specific recall for the main engine water pump on the 2018-2023 Audi A5 for this issue. However, there was a recall (19N4) for an electric *after-run* coolant pump on earlier models that could short circuit, but this is a separate part from the main mechanical water pump that is prone to leaking. A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2071515 / 19 23 44) does exist for coolant leaks from the pump on 2020-2024 models, instructing technicians on how to properly diagnose the leak.
🎬 Learn how to identify and fix common EA888 coolant leaks.Can I replace the Audi A5 water pump myself?
This is a moderately difficult to complex job. It requires draining the cooling system, removing several components to access the pump, and properly bleeding the system afterward. While possible for an experienced DIY mechanic with the right tools, many owners will prefer to have a professional shop perform the replacement due to its complexity.
🎬 Watch a step-by-step DIY guide for replacing the water pump.Should I replace the thermostat and belt at the same time?
Yes. The thermostat is part of the water pump housing assembly, so it will be replaced as part of the kit. It is also highly recommended to inspect the serpentine belt that drives the pump. Since the belt must be removed for the job, replacing it at the same time is cost-effective and good preventative maintenance.
Why does the OEM part fail so often?
The primary issue stems from the plastic material used for the pump and thermostat housing. Repeated exposure to hot and cold cycles in the engine bay causes the plastic to become brittle, leading to cracks and gasket failures. Oil leaks from higher up on the engine can also drip onto the housing, accelerating the degradation of the plastic and seals.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06L121012 06L121111H 06L121111P 06L121111N
Integrated unit containing the main engine water pump and electronically controlled thermostat. Driven by a serpentine belt.
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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.
- Audi A5:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is My Audi A5 Water Pump Failing?
- Key Symptoms of a Failing Water Pump:
- A Known Issue: The Plastic Housing
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Water Pump
- Brand Options: Gates vs. Hella
- Replace as a Kit
- Cost of Replacing an Audi A5 Water Pump
- Frequently Asked Questions
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