NHTSA Complaint #11701588 — 2025 AUDI S5

Known-Best Assesment-Piston Skirt Defect and Non-Disclosure of Prior Issues: Approximately only three months after purchase of a brand new 2025 Audi S5 on 6/11/25 , I received a letter from Audi of America acknowledging a potential piston skirt defect/failure resulting from faulty material and/or workmanship. They extended the part warranty for 8 years or 80,000 miles but this doesn't help me feel safe driving this vehicle. I was informed the defect cannot be proactively repaired and would only be addressed after failure. This instruction is unreasonable, unsafe, and contrary to the purpose of purchasing a new vehicle. Audi has previously settled piston-related class litigation, yet no one at Audi Henderson disclosed any history of piston issues during the sale. Had I been informed of this material risk, I would not have purchased the vehicle. I now feel unable to safely or confidently use this vehicle for long-distance or out-of-state travel. Upon researching it I found this: The mileage at which a piston skirt defect will cause total failure varies widely, potentially from mere miles to tens of thousands of miles, or could last the entire life of the engine if it's a minor defect. It is highly risky to drive with a known defect, as damage accumulates over time and can lead to a complete and sudden engine failure and could lead to catastrophic, potentially deadly consequences.   Factors Affecting the Rate of Worsening :The time frame for failure depends almost entirely on the nature and severity of the initial problem, as well as driving habits. * Severity of the Defect: A small scuff might not cause issues for a long time, while a cracked or broken skirt can lead to catastrophic failure very quickly (e.g., within 5 miles or even minutes). * Maintenance: Regular oil checks and changes help manage the symptoms but cannot prevent eventual failure if the defect is significant. * Early reports: Some drivers have reported problems with low-mileage vehicles.