2018 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.
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Common 2018 Audi S3 problems
The 2018 Audi S3 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. These issues range from engine performance to window malfunctions.
One of the most common problems is the engine becoming hesitant at high revs. This can be caused by faulty coil packs, spark plugs, or injectors. If the coil packs are shot, they will need to be replaced. If the spark plugs are the issue, they should be replaced as necessary. Faulty injectors can also cause this problem, and they can be ordered from Audi's store.
Another issue is the car not starting in wet weather. This is due to a broken yaw sensor, which will need to be replaced. The yaw sensor is located in the centre console, just beneath the radio, in most models of the S3.
The fuel pump cam follower can also wear out, causing the fuel to cut out and the car to experience a sudden loss of power. This problem should be dealt with quickly, as it can become more expensive if not addressed promptly. The cam follower can be easily replaced with a new one from Audi's store.
The steering wheel can vibrate excessively, accompanied by a knocking or banging noise while turning the car. This is caused by a worn-out top strut bearing, which can be easily replaced with a new one.
The windows may not close due to plastic clips on the window regulator breaking. These clips can be replaced with A6 metal clips from Audi's parts list, which will solve the window problem.
The engine may misfire regularly, and the boost may be affected. This is caused by the oil breather valve on the front of the cam cover sticking. The cam cover should be replaced every 10,000 miles to prevent this issue. If misfires are already occurring, a new oil breather valve can be ordered and installed easily.
The fuel keeps cutting out, and the car experiences a sudden loss of power. This is caused by a worn-out fuel pump cam follower, which can damage the camshaft if not replaced. The fuel pump cam follower can be easily replaced with a new one from Audi's store.
The steering wheel can vibrate excessively, accompanied by a knocking or banging noise while turning the car. This is caused by a worn-out top strut bearing, which can be easily replaced with a new one.
In addition to these common problems, some owners have reported issues with rattling from the centre console area, mainly from the trim surrounding the gearlever, and from the boot locking mechanism. The sat-nav screen, which rises out of the dashboard, can also creak in use. Water pumps have been reported to leak, and the S3 has been rated poorly for headlight bulb failure. Issues with the fuel pump cam follower wearing have also been reported, and the oil breather valve can stick. Listen for rattling from the manual gearbox, and make sure oil and filters have been changed every 40,000 miles on the S Tronic automatic versions. Check the condition of the brake pads and discs, as these can erode with heavy use.
Despite these common problems, the Audi S3 has been rated as a reliable car by its owners. It finished 15th out of 29 cars in the family car class of the 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, with a reliability score of 91.4%. Sat-nav and infotainment issues caused the most complaints, with 15.8% of owners experiencing problems in that area. However, the Audi S3 is generally more reliable than the rival 2018-present Mercedes A-Class, but not as reliable as the 2011-2019 BMW 1 Series. As a car brand, Audi ranked 26th out of 32 manufacturers, which is poor.
What is the common engine problem in the Audi S3?
Engine-Related Issues
Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, which can lead to more frequent top-ups and potential long-term engine damage if not monitored.
Is it worth it to buy an Audi S3?
Conclusion: it's a great starter performance car. On the road, where your surroundings don't sap speed quite like they do on track, it feels livelier. My other half, Sophie, took the wheel a fair few times and she always remarked on how much she liked driving it.
How many miles can an Audi S3 last?
Any reason why the S3 should not do well over 200k miles? Any modern mass-produced car should be good for 200k with the correct, regular servicing.
Is an Audi S3 a good daily?
The Audi S3 managed to come with all the luxury and performance you need. However, the S3 Sedan also includes enough practicality to seamlessly use the car as your daily driver. This makes it the perfect daily driver for gearheads that are looking for the best of both worlds.
What is the common engine problem in the Audi S3?
Engine-Related Issues
Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, which can lead to more frequent top-ups and potential long-term engine damage if not monitored.
Is it worth it to buy an Audi S3?
Conclusion: it's a great starter performance car. On the road, where your surroundings don't sap speed quite like they do on track, it feels livelier. My other half, Sophie, took the wheel a fair few times and she always remarked on how much she liked driving it.
Is Audi S3 2017 reliable?
Nonetheless, the 2013-2020 A3 (and subsequently S3) is generally more reliable than the rival 2018-present Mercedes A-Class, but not as reliable as the 2011-2019 BMW 1 Series. As a car brand, Audi ranked 26th out of 32 a manufacturers, which is poor.
Is an Audi S3 a good daily?
The Audi S3 managed to come with all the luxury and performance you need. However, the S3 Sedan also includes enough practicality to seamlessly use the car as your daily driver. This makes it the perfect daily driver for gearheads that are looking for the best of both worlds.
2018 Audi S3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Audi S3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Audi S3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Audi S3.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- 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.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-08
- VIN: WAUB1GFF0J1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The car was put in Drive "D". As I roll out into traffic and start to accelerate, the car "bang" out of gear like it's in neutral, the revs climb, but the car doesn't accelerate and the "D" display disappeared from the instrument panel. The gear selector display on the instrument panel is now blank (instead of "D" if it was in gear or "N" if it was out of gear). I have to pull to the side of the road and stop and the "D" reappeared and then all seems to be fine again. This has happened twice in the last two months. I had a local mechanic scan the vehicle for transmission fault, but found nothing was stored.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-07
- VIN: WAUB1GFF5J1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Audi will not fix the problem.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-09
- VIN: WAUB1GFF4J1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: A) AUDI OF CENTRAL HOUSTON SOLD US 2018 S3 ON AUG13, 2018 WITH: 1) DELAMINATING WINDSHIELD CREATING A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD 2) DEFECTIVE WIPER FUNCTION NB: WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACEMENT ON DEC 31, 2019 WHEN WE HAD ACTUALLY REQUESTED REPLACEMENT OF THE VEHICLE WITH ANOTHER BRAND NEW VEHICLE B) AUDI OF NORTH AMERICA (THROUGH ITS DEALER) HAS: 1) SOLD US A BRAND NEW CAR WITH FIRE HAZARD IN ITS FUEL LINES ON AUG 13, 2018 2) FAILED TO NOTIFY US TO DATE (JAN 09, 2019) REGARDING RECALL CODE 20BK DEALING WITH FAULTY FUEL LINES
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-01
- VIN: WAUB1GFF1J1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CAR DOESN'T ENGAGE GEAR OR "JUMPS" WHEN REVERSE (R) IS SELECTED.
2018 Audi S3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Audi S3.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.
Negative 2018 Audi S3 car reviews
Positive 2018 Audi S3 car reviews
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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.
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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'm very 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.
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I'm so glad I chose the Audi S3 over the S4. Even though I was worried about downsizing my engine, fuel economy was a priority for me. This car is perfect for me! It's luxurious, fast, and handles corners like a dream. The B&O sound system is amazing and the technology is top-notch. Since getting this car, my days have been a little brighter. Audi really hit the mark with this masterpiece.
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I purchased this car on May 30th, 2015 and I have been blown away every time I get behind the wheel. Full disclosure: this is my fifth Audi in 30 years, so it's safe to say that I'm a big fan. The S3 is an incredible combination of power, speed, comfort, features, and appearance. It comes equipped with Homelink (garage door opener), manual sport seats (of Recaro quality), a navigation system, and a 'jukebox' (hard drive) that can hold up to 3,000 songs. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is fantastic, so I always rip my .mp3s at their highest resolution. The sales staff even provided an after-delivery tutorial session where we set up the car's parameters. The switchable magnetic suspension, multiple drive and shift modes, and 4-wheel drive make this car stand out from the crowd. Even after 18 months, this car is still incredibly fast and agile, yet it can be driven comfortably in 'granny mode'. A good radar detector is helpful, as the simple passing maneuver acceleration can put the car at 85-90 with no conscious effort. It takes gentle mountain curves at 110 with ease and a remarkable lack of drama, making a pleasant Sunday drive into take-me-to-jail territory. Not that I have done this, of course, but I have read glowing accounts on forums and YouTube.
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This car is amazing! It's definitely the best car I've ever owned. I haven't had the chance to test it on a track yet, but I have a feeling it would handle it like a dream. The 2.0 TFSI engine is seriously impressive - I couldn't stop giggling during my test drive! Audi claims a 4.7 second 0-60 time, but I think it's even faster than that - closer to 4 seconds! If you want the full experience, make sure to get the technology package with the virtual cockpit, MMI upgrades, and B&O sound system. There are a few minor downsides, like the cupholder placement and slight turbo lag at low RPMs on low gears, but they're really not a big deal. Overall, the S3 is a luxurious car that can out-run 95% of the vehicles on the road!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Audi S3 problems:
8V Audi S3 reliability and common issues? : r/Audi
Nov 29, 2018 ... I plan on purchasing a low mileage used 2017, 2018, or just buying new if the price is right. I do have a few questions, though: What are any ...
2018 S3 Issues | Audi-Sport.net
Nov 12, 2020 ... Should mention its a S-Tronic gearbox too. High frequency metallic rattle when on full boost from time to time but again not always. Cruise ...
Audi S3: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Audi S3 Common Problems and Solutions · High Revs Cause Engine Hesitation · The Car Doesn't Start In Wet Weather · Poor Running · Overheating Thermostats · Window ...
2018 Audi S3 reliability? : r/audis3
Jul 15, 2023 ... yep, 2018 S3 here as well, can't say enough good things about the car. It's my daily and has been 100% reliable , I do take care of it very ...
S3 8V common faults? | Audi-Sport.net
Jun 14, 2017 ... I'm looking at getting an 8V S3, more than likely a 5 door. Just wondering if there's any common problems / problems with certain options ...
Other years of Audi S3
Are you having problems with your 2018 Audi S3?
Nico Lebsack 2025-03-21
Over the course of 6 months and 7100 miles, I have had a low coolant warning appear twice. However, the problem has not reoccurred and the car is performing well. As I approach 40k, I am happy to report that the car has been solid and still a joy to drive. The B&O sound system makes my commute so much better too. While I did experience an issue with the water pump housing being cracked, the dealer was able to fix it for $1600. Overall, my experience with Audi has had its ups and downs, but I still enjoy driving the car. However, I have found that the maintenance can be a bit costly and the dealers are often behind schedule. Looking back, I may have reconsidered my purchase, but I still appreciate the fun and peppy ride that the S3 provides.
Freddie Wuckert 2024-02-01
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.