Audi S3 problems
The Audi S3 is a hot hatch version of the Audi A3 small family car, produced by German automaker Audi since 1999. S3 variants of both the first- and second-generation Audi A3 have been produced.
Like all Audi S models, it is only available with quattro four-wheel drive system.
First generation (Typ 8L, 1999-2003)
Overview
The first generation S3 is built on the same A platform of the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf Mk4, Audi TT, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia.
The straight-4 20v 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine comes in two versions of power output: 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). Early models (1999–2001) had 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) which is said to be a de-tuned Audi TT engine, and was said to be reduced to lessen brand competition with the more powerful TT. Later models (2001–2003) had variable valve timing and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). The engine provides a maximum 280 N⋅m (210 ft⋅lbf) of torque, most of which is available from 2200 through to 5500 rpm. This is the first time a small five-valve engine has been used in an Audi S-series car..
Although dubbed "quattro", the S3 uses a different "on-demand" four-wheel drive system. The Haldex Traction coupling adjusts the bias of torque distribution from the front to rear axle as grip requirements change - most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.
The S3 was sold in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, but was not officially marketed in the United States.
The S3 was facelifted in 2000, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters, and some minor upgrades to interior trim. There had been minor changes to the design previous to this, including digital clock on the dash.
Social links
Audi S3 model years
Common Audi S3 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Audi S3, here is a list of common problems with the car:
- Water Pump Issues:
- Symptoms: Leaking water pump, noisy water pump, low coolant level, overheating, or steam.
- Causes: Bad seals around the water pump leading to cracks, incorrect coolant type.
- Recommendation: Consult a specialist for the right coolant type, avoid excessive sealing during repairs.
- Enthusiastic Driving:
- Accelerated wear on components like tires, braking pads, calipers, and engine.
- Risk: Potential engine failure due to aggressive driving.
- Advice: Avoid aggressive driving modes in inappropriate conditions to prevent premature component wear.
- Maintenance:
- Regular oil changes every 10,000 kilometers, oil filter changes at the same interval.
- Spark plug replacement every 30,000 kilometers, gearbox oil change every 60,000 kilometers.
- Importance: Proper maintenance crucial for the longevity and performance of the Audi S3.
- Rattling Issues:
- Reported rattling from the center console area, trim surrounding the gear lever, and boot locking mechanism.
- Additional Problems: Sat-nav screen creaking, headlight bulb failure, fuel pump cam follower wear, and sticking oil breather valve.
- Maintenance Tip: Regular checks for rattling in the gearbox and timely oil and filter changes for S Tronic automatic versions.
- Electrical Concerns:
- Reported issues with the horn not working, limited boot access with only the key, and personal preference features.
- Importance: Addressing these electrical issues promptly to ensure safety and convenience.
- Suspension and Magride System:
- Early redesign of top mounts and bump stops to address knocking sounds from the rear suspension.
- Magride suspension may have issues with leaking dampers, requiring careful inspection and attention to suspension fault messages on the dashboard.
- Rear wiper motor failure is another potential issue to watch out for.
By addressing these common problems proactively and ensuring regular maintenance, Audi S3 owners can enhance the reliability and longevity of their vehicles.
Is the Audi S3 a reliable car?
Our data suggests the Audi S3 is a reliable car. The S3 (albeit represented by the regular A3) finished 15th out of 29 cars in the family car class of our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey. It's reliability score was a confidence-inspiring 91.4%.
What is high mileage for an S3?
Here's the lowdown: Mileage Concerns: 127k miles is a pretty high number, especially for a performance-oriented car like the Audi S3. High mileage can mean more wear and tear, and potentially more maintenance and repair costs down the line.
What to look for when buying an Audi S3?
Audi S3 body, interior and electrics
Inside, there are no S3-specific issues to worry about, but any signs of excessive wear or damage to trim may mean the car has lived a hard life and better examples can be found. The rear wiper motor is prone to failure, so check that along with all the electronic toys.
Is it worth it to buy an Audi S3?
Verdict. The S3 could be written off as a Jack of all trades, but I think that's a little unfair in some ways. It could do with more practicality, and there were a few gripes elsewhere, but otherwise it passed the sternest test of any long-term test car; it kept my other half happy.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi S3 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi S3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi S3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi S3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi S3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi S3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi S3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Seats problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi S3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S3 model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by S3 model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 78 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi S3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi S3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi S3 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: WAUB1GFFXJ1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Having the same issue as the NHTSA Part 573 Safety Recall Report, 24V-110. And, similar to NHTSA 16V647 associated with the Audi Safety Recall 20Y5 - Suction Pump. Apparently there is no recall for my S3, only the A3. Dealer has determined the suction pump and gas tank are faulty. (Inherit defect by manufacture?). Audi is not acknowledging any upcoming recall but may try to help through their assistance program.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: WAUBFGFF8F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: When driving, without AND more importantly, WITH, a passenger in the front passenger seat, the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) light goes on and indicates that the passenger air bag has been deactivated. I looked on line and saw that Audi has already recalled certain 2015-2019 Audi A3 Sedans but apparently my car is not part of the initial recall. I think the recall is BIGGER than Audi estimated and that my car should also be part of the recall. I plan to take to Audi to repair.
Audi S3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: WAUG3DGY9RA
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Audi S3. The contact stated while driving during rainy conditions, the wiper blades were making a loud sound and almost scratching the windshield, making visibility difficult and increasing the risk of a crash. A local dealer was contacted; however, the contact was advised that the failure was a part of the normal operation of the wiper blades. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Audi S3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-12
- VIN: WAUB1GFF3H1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: transmission failed after going over a small pothole at 20mph, after which engine revved up than slammed into high gear and jerked the car forward, car has been towed to dealership for inspection, transmission light came on
Audi S3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-13
- VIN: WAUB1GFF8G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Received notice for safety recall to have PODs system repaired or replaced free of charge by Audi. Took my vehicle in for the recall. Audi wanted to charge me to complete this safety recall and refused to complete the recall if I didn't pay. This was bluegrass motorsports in Louisville ky. They also damaged my vehicles door trim and stole money from my glove box(my fault for leaving money inside). Filed a complaint on the dealers website and was never reached out to. This is why safety recall remains open on my vehicle.
Audi S3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-16
- VIN: WAUG3DGY4RA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Random Errors for front and rear sensors, ABS light for brake booster error and SOS failure.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-22
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While pumping gas, a strong odor is always present. While pumping gas the pump will stop multiple times before being filled in it's entirety, I can't hold depress gas pump handle I have to slowly fill car with gas or risk spilling fuel.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-12
- VIN: WAUBFGFF4F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The EVAP suction pump stopped working resulting in refueling issues. Fuel accumulates in the EVAP system and spills outside the vehicle
Audi S3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-05
- VIN: WAUB1GFF9G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Where do I start? We have taken this car into the Audi dealership four times due to the engine. Overheating and being almost stranded in the middle of nowhere with it because oil was needing to be added to the engine all the time and after charging us hundreds and hundreds of dollars to do to plug in Their service computer system they finally realized that the car third high-pressure fuel pump leaking was leaking fuel into the crank case causing a hard start and fuel trim codes we spent and this is just the warrants $911.67 another time my husband was backing out of our brand, new home and This car did not sense that he was too close and essentially the front right part of his tire where the tire is doc Benton and he ruined the right side of our garage and these are just one of the 20 issues that have been always going to the RV dealership and I really think that it’s time for some reimbursement. My husband won’t go and do anything about it because he used to work at the dealership but I’m sick of it and we’ve been charged hundreds and hundreds of dollars and then they finally just fixed. They finally just found the problem there that’s an issue and it’s a safety issue to because when I was driving down the highway all the sudden the over the engine overheated and that wasn’t on that was on several occasions, we brought it into the Audi dealership. They couldn’t find anything wrong with it Several please call me back or contact my husband who owns a car I’m getting sick of this. I think they also replaced the water pump as well.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-28
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have had a passenger airbag recall since 2021, and I have tried to schedule the maintenance for that recall several times, but each of the 5 times that I’ve tried, the Audi dealership (in Glenwood Springs, CO) says they don’t have the parts in stock. Each time that happens, I’m told I’ve been put on the list for the next parts shipment. I am so tired of waiting, while in the meantime, my passengers are considered unsafe in this vehicle. I need to have this repaired soon, please. Thank you.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WAUBFGFF2F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I got into an accident and my air bags didn’t deploy
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-17
- VIN: WAUBFGFF4F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel tanks suction pump fails and will not allow you to fill the tank with gas. It will fill a vary small amount of gas then start draining it out onto the ground by the wheel well. If the exhaust is hot it could potentially catch fire
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-15
- VIN: WAUFFGFF4F1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Defroster flap motor keeps going out with code. Been looking up ways to fix and seems like it is a problem a lot of owners have with the 8v vehicles. Cannot see at all through windshield even with max defrost on. Can feel no air through vents.
Audi S3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-20
- VIN: WAUBFGFF5F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi A3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Audi S3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-13
- VIN: WAUB1GFF5H1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have contacted Audi dealerships in my area with regard to Manufacturer Recall Number 69BY NHTSA Recall Number 21V198. But they say they do not have the parts to fix the recall and have no idea when they can fix it
Latest 5 recalls Audi S3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 17 recalls for different components of the Audi S3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi S3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-11-02
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Golf R A8, Audi S3, RS3 Sedan, Q4 E-Tron SUV, A3 Sedan, and 2022-2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI, and ID4 vehicles. The rearview camera image may be blank or unresponsive when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear or when the park function is manually activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed to Audi owners February 14, 2023. Volkswagen owners will receive an owner notification letter once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Volkswagen) 91EK and (Audi) 91EL.
- Model: Audi S3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the infotainment main unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 91Ei.
- Model: Audi S3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-08-29
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Audi S3, A3, and RS3 vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been folded incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly folded air bag can tear, prohibiting it from deploying properly during a crash, increasing the risk of an injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag module, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. The remedy is expected to become available in December 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69DZ.
- Model: Audi S3 2016
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-27
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, S3 Sedan, R8 Coupe, A3 Sedan, A3 Etron, A3 Cabriolet, 2016 Golf Sportwagen, Golf R, Golf GTI, Golf A7, and E Golf vehicles. During air bag deployment, the front passenger air bag may explode or deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in serious injury or death. An improper air bag deployment may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front-passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69DY and 61C1.
- Model: Audi S3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Audi S3 and A3 sedans. The retention force of the seat belt tensioner on the driver and front passenger seats may be inadequate to properly restrain the occupants during a crash.
- Consequence: Improperly restrained occupants have an increased risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver and front passenger seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 16, 2022. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 68i2.
Latest negative Audi S3 car reviews
Latest positive Audi S3 car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2020
I didn't intend to purchase an Audi, nor do I care about owning a If I had the chance, I would definitely buy it. Update as of November 2018: I am still the proud owner of this car and have no intentions of selling it. So far, I have not encountered any reliability issues, although it still has relatively low mileage. It continues to provide me with an impressive 25 mpg overall. I have noticed that the 2015 S3 version is quite rare on the road, as I hardly ever see any. Personally, I prefer the styling of this model over the newer ones with headlights that resemble check marks. I receive numerous compliments on the car and it seems to be quite popular.
-
Vehicle year: 2020
I purchased a '15 Sepang Blue Premium Plus S3 at the end of June 2015. Since this was my personal car for commuting to and from work, I didn't go overboard with the options, choosing just a few: the performance package (primarily for the shocks and stylish wheels), the driver comfort package (with Homelink being the standout feature), and the Driver Assistance package (including a camera and back-up sensors). First and foremost, the car is an absolute joy to drive. Setting the exhaust to dynamic mode maximizes the engine's potential and gives it a considerably sportier sound. The engine is responsive and powerful. Although I suspect that my car may be an underachiever in terms of horsepower, as I'm not getting close to sub-5 second sprints to 60, this could also be due to my engine only having 3K on it. The car handles extremely well and feels as well-planted as anything I've ever owned, including my e92 335i coupe. The biggest disappointment for me is the gearbox. I find that there's a half-second of lag between input and response, which isn't turbo lag per se, but rather the gearbox being slow to respond to the input. This happens across the rev range, even in launch control mode. Audi really needs to look at the software and possibly tweak it. I know that other aftermarket parts suppliers have also noticed this and addressed it through add-ons. I also think that Audi should give this thing more than 6 forward speeds. I think that a 7 or 8 speed DSG would further help with performance and also improve highway mileage. As for the interior, the cabin is stylish and I particularly like the two-tone seats in mine. I went for the black/grey leather combination, as I find the black/red a little too garish for my taste. Overall, I like the interior, although a little more storage space would be welcome. The plastics on certain areas feel a little cheap, but the back seat leg space is sufficient for my kids, although adults could be a little cramped over long distances. All in all, I'm extremely pleased with my car and look forward to driving it.I hope they can address the minor items I've called out above, especially the transmission lag.
-
Vehicle year: 2018
Hey there! I'm a huge car enthusiast and this is actually my 38th car purchase! I just wanted to point out that there is a USB port in the console under the armrest, right next to the Audi connect port. I've owned several BMW's, including 3 and 5 series, a Z4 3.0, and a bunch of Benzes ranging from S-Class and G-Wagen to SLK and CLK430, and currently a mint CLS500. Two cars before this purchase, I owned a Porsche Cayman S for 4 years. I've autocrossed, done track days, and been a sports car fan since the late 50's when I first saw Jim Kimberly in his Ferrari win a race. But enough about me, let's talk about the S3! I shopped around for the M235i and MB GLA45 AMG before making this purchase, and I have to say, the S3 is a true entry-level luxury rocket. It has all the tech anyone could want (and probably never use). Mine is a Prestige and has all the Driver's assistance goodies, e.g. adaptive cruise, lane assist, blind spot monitoring, Presense braking, etc. These things are truly workable and disconnectable, great for interstate cruising. Now there is also Launch Control, along with 4 driving modes. The sound when in Dynamic, or S drive is among the best I've heard. And did I mention this thing really does fly? Audi says 0-60 in 4.7 sec. Motor Trend, C&D say 4.4 sec. One does have to know how to make it launch, but it can be done in several ways. It only has one The B&O audio is fantastic and there are plenty of entertainment sound options available, including Sirius, two SD cards, BT streaming through your phone or iPad, and it all works seamlessly and automatically once hooked up. The MMI system is easy to use and has a really nice interface, as noted by many auto magazines. In comparison to BMW or Benz interiors, the Audi's interior is much nicer and has more tech features. Additionally, when comparably equipped (to the extent possible), the BMW or Benz will cost $5-8,000 more. It's worth noting that Audi's depreciation is only 53% after 5 years. In summary, if you're in the market for a small luxury road rocket, you should definitely consider this car. As an update, I've taken several road trips and have driven over 8200 miles. The car continues to perform brilliantly, with my only gripe being the inability to receive text messages unless iMessage is disabled and Twitter responses being very limited. Other than those two issues, I still believe I made the right decision in purchasing this wonderful little sedan. Now, after 2 years of ownership and 26k miles, my opinion hasn't changed. For me, this is a fantastic car. It hasn't been to the dealer except for oil changes. I waxed it last night and it still looks new. I love this car! As an update, my S3 continues to be flawless. It hasn't been to the dealer for anything since I last reported. It's now due for an oil change/inspection. It continues to perform as new and everything still works as intended. Oh, and I tend to drive it like I stole it... I never leave it at a traffic light! Update 9/9/21: First, a correction noted by “It could be a bit better”. Homelink on my car was an option as I recall. My Prestige model did not include this. But the big news is that it left its home on March 16, 2021. The itch for something different became intolerable. I first got in line for a Ford Bronco, but when the first of many delays hit in the middle of the pandemic, I switched my online order to a Mustang Mach E Premium.I'm glad to hear that you had a great experience with your Audi S3! Despite the expected arrival being delayed until early June, it sounds like the car was well worth the wait. It's impressive that you didn't experience any issues with the car, even after 5 years and 47,000 miles on the odometer. Based on your positive experience, I would definitely recommend an Audi S3 to others. It's great to hear that you're now enjoying a new driving experience with a First Edition Mustang Mach E 4X. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
-
Vehicle year: 2018
I recently moved from California and was hesitant to drive my two-seater RWD sports car in New Jersey winters. After test driving numerous AWD cars in the $30K to $60K range (which was fewer than I expected), I found that the S3 was an absolute blast to drive. It handles better than a Miata and the virtual cockpit is simply awesome. The only downside is the engine auto-stop/auto-start feature, which can be a bit hesitant. However, it's easy to disable and the default setting cannot be changed. Overall, the S3 is pretty much perfect. I've taken it on several long runs on rough/choppy pavement and it handles it like a champ. The only issue I had was with one of the proximity sensors, which needed resetting after driving through torrential (post-hurricane) rain. But it was no big deal.
-
Vehicle year: 2020
I recently traded in my '14 Audi A6 Prestige (which was a great car) for a '15 S3 Prestige. The S3 is definitely more fun to drive! The power delivery is excellent, although there is a small bit of turbo lag (especially in regular 'D' mode). I think a 7-sp DSG (like in the S4) would've been better. The grip is outstanding and the car handles like it's on rails. Braking is also outstanding. Unfortunately, there are some cons for me, such as the lack of storage spaces (for sunglasses, etc.), no memory seat settings, no built-in garage door opener, and no heated steering wheel.
Are you having problems with your Audi S3?
Nikolas Halvorson 2024-07-15
Vehicle year: 2017
I waited for the motor to be fully broken in before I measured its performance. After 18 months of ownership, I can honestly say that this S3 looks very nice, but it didn't have the acceleration or reliability I was hoping for. Additionally, the magnetic ride is a farce, and I get a banging noise on the rear passenger side strut, which bothers my passengers as well as me. The dealership says they don't hear anything, and this noise is normal, but other forum posters say it's not normal, as they are in the same predicament. Looks like I should have accepted the legal route after all. I think I'm going to have to look at a Lexus for my next purchase. Well, I've had the car for four years now, and after Audi fixed the rear shocks, the noise subsided. I'm happy to say that there have been no further problems. The mileage is about 27Mpg at 75MPH. It would be greater if it had an extra gear (which the 2018s and above have), but I didn't buy it for mileage. Still, it's a fast and fun car, and I can get another 75hp out of the motor with minimum modifications.
Ryder Koss 2024-06-11
Vehicle year: 2024
The Nappa leather steering wheel stitching has unraveled after just over a year. When I contacted Audi, they informed me that the interior trim is only covered for 12 months. Regarding the factory seatbelt pretensioner issues and the backwards-packed passenger side airbag, Audi has not yet released a fix after over 6 months. They advised me not to drive the car until a fix is available. Additionally, the MMI (multimedia interface) has connectivity issues with my phone, often disconnecting and failing to recognize it upon re-pairing. The homelink feature also does not consistently open the garage door, which is the same issue my girlfriend's 2021 Q3 has. I strongly advise against purchasing an Audi, as the service I received from the Audi Middleburg Heights Ohio service manager was extremely poor.
Connor Willms 2024-04-28
Vehicle year: 2016
I waited for the motor to be fully broken in before I measured its performance. After 18 months of ownership, I can honestly say that this S3 looks very nice, but it didn't have the acceleration or reliability I was hoping for. Additionally, the magnetic ride is a farce, and I get a banging noise on the rear passenger side strut, which bothers my passengers as well as me. The dealership says they don't hear anything, and this noise is normal, but other forum posters say it's not normal, as they are in the same predicament. Looks like I should have accepted the legal route after all. I think I'm going to have to look at a Lexus for my next purchase. Well, I've had the car for four years now, and after Audi fixed the rear shocks, the noise subsided. I'm happy to say that there have been no further problems. The mileage is about 27Mpg at 75MPH. It would be greater if it had an extra gear (which the 2018s and above have), but I didn't buy it for mileage. Still, it's a fast and fun car, and I can get another 75hp out of the motor with minimum modifications.
Alek Thiel 2024-04-16
Vehicle year: 2019
I waited for the motor to be fully broken in before I measured its performance. After 18 months of ownership, I can honestly say that this S3 looks very nice, but it didn't have the acceleration or reliability I was hoping for. Additionally, the magnetic ride is a farce, and I get a banging noise on the rear passenger side strut, which bothers my passengers as well as me. The dealership says they don't hear anything, and this noise is normal, but other forum posters say it's not normal, as they are in the same predicament. Looks like I should have accepted the legal route after all. I think I'm going to have to look at a Lexus for my next purchase. Well, I've had the car for four years now, and after Audi fixed the rear shocks, the noise subsided. I'm happy to say that there have been no further problems. The mileage is about 27Mpg at 75MPH. It would be greater if it had an extra gear (which the 2018s and above have), but I didn't buy it for mileage. Still, it's a fast and fun car, and I can get another 75hp out of the motor with minimum modifications.
Freddie Wuckert 2024-02-01
Vehicle year: 2018
I waited for the motor to be fully broken in before I measured its performance. After 18 months of ownership, I can honestly say that this S3 looks very nice, but it didn't have the acceleration or reliability I was hoping for. Additionally, the magnetic ride is a farce, and I get a banging noise on the rear passenger side strut, which bothers my passengers as well as me. The dealership says they don't hear anything, and this noise is normal, but other forum posters say it's not normal, as they are in the same predicament. Looks like I should have accepted the legal route after all. I think I'm going to have to look at a Lexus for my next purchase. Well, I've had the car for four years now, and after Audi fixed the rear shocks, the noise subsided. I'm happy to say that there have been no further problems. The mileage is about 27Mpg at 75MPH. It would be greater if it had an extra gear (which the 2018s and above have), but I didn't buy it for mileage. Still, it's a fast and fun car, and I can get another 75hp out of the motor with minimum modifications.