1993 Audi S4 problems
The Audi S4 is the high performance variant of Audi's compact executive car A4. The original Audi S4, built from 1991 until 1994, was a performance-oriented version of Audi's 100 saloon/sedan. All subsequent S4s since 1997 have been based on the Audi A4; and as the A4 has evolved from one generation to the next, so has the S4.
Like its regular A4 counterpart, all S4 variants have had longitudinally oriented, front-mounted engines. All versions of the S4 have their transmission mounted immediately at the rear of the engine in a longitudinal orientation, in the form of a transaxle, and like all Audi "S" cars, are only available as standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system, using a Torsen-based centre differential system. A more powerful internal combustion engine, larger upgraded brakes, firmer suspension, larger wheels, and distinctive sheetmetal, styling clues and badging have always been amongst the many upgrades the S4 receives over its mainstream 100 and A4 siblings. In markets where the even higher-performance Audi RS 4 is not offered, the S4 is the top-of-the-line trim of the A4 family.
A single turbocharged 2.2-litre inline five-cylinder powered the original C4 version, and a 2.7-litre twin turbocharged V6 engine was found in the B5 generation. The B6 and B7 versions shared a common 4.2-litre V8 engine, the first time that a V8 engine was placed in a compact executive car, placing it in direct competition with the BMW M3 (3.2 L inline 6) and Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG (3.2-litre supercharged V6). The B8 generation uses a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine and competed with the BMW 335i, BMW 335i/340i xDrive, and Mercedes-Benz C350. The current B9 generation is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine, with rivals including the BMW M340i xDrive and Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG/Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC.
All versions of the S4 have been manufactured at Audi's plant in Ingolstadt, Germany; they are, or have been available as a four-door five-seat saloon and a five-door five-seat Avant (Audi's name for an estate car/station wagon) body styles since the model's inception in 1991. A two-door four-seat Cabriolet (convertible) S4 variant was introduced as part of the B6 and B7 generation A4 lineups. The B8 Cabriolet has now been built off the A5 coupe body style and the "S" variant is marketed under the Audi S5 nameplate.
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Common 1993 Audi S4 problems
The Audi S4, introduced in 1993, is a high-performance vehicle with a reputation for reliability and responsiveness. However, like any car, it is not immune to issues. Here are some common problems reported by owners of the 1993 Audi S4:
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light on the Audi S4 can be triggered by various issues, such as a loose gas cap, damaged oxygen sensor, dirty mass airflow sensor, faulty emissions control part, faulty head gasket, malfunctioning fuel injection system, or defective spark plugs. When the check engine light comes on, it's essential to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
- Faulty Spark Plugs and Spark Plug Wires: The spark plugs and spark plug wires in the Audi S4 are crucial for the engine's performance. Worn-out or damaged spark plugs and wires can lead to low performance, reduced power, and difficulty starting the engine. In some cases, they can also cause damage to other engine components, such as the ignition coils and O2 sensors, resulting in more expensive repairs.
- Faulty Fuel Cap: A faulty or damaged fuel cap can cause fuel to evaporate, leading to more frequent trips to the gas station. Although replacing a fuel cap is not expensive, it's an issue that can be easily overlooked. Therefore, it's essential to check the fuel cap if the check engine light comes on shortly after refueling.
- Aftermarket Parts and Accessories: Aftermarket parts and accessories can sometimes cause issues if not installed correctly. They can drain the battery, trigger the check engine light, or even prevent the vehicle from starting. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that aftermarket parts and accessories are installed correctly and are not causing any issues.
- Power Steering Pump Leaks: Over time, the power steering pump on the Audi S4 can develop a weeping X-plug on top, which can cause leaks. While most repair facilities and dealers may recommend replacing the entire pump, a simple fix involves taking a ½” screwdriver bit, grinding off 1/16” from the end, using an impact hammer on the X-plug to free it, and then ordering a new plug with an O-ring for $8. This fix can save hundreds of dollars and solve the issue completely.
- Overheating Due to Failing Thermostat: Thermostat failure is a common issue in the Audi S4, leading to overheating. Thirty owners have reported this problem, which can cause significant damage to the engine if not addressed promptly.
In conclusion, while the Audi S4 is a reliable and high-performance vehicle, it's not immune to issues. Regular maintenance, checking for faulty parts, and addressing issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
How many miles can an S4 last?
You can expect the average Audi S4 to last up to and potentially over 100,000 miles without the need for significant repairs, but only if you take the time to perform routine maintenance while driving in a safe and controlled manner.
What is the top speed of the 1993 Audi S4?
150 mph
Performance
| Horsepower | 227 @ 5900 RPM |
|---|---|
| Torque | 258 @ 1950 rpm |
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.2 Liter |
| 0 to 60 | 6.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 150 mph |
Is an Audi S4 a fast car?
0-60 MPH Times
Looking at the numbers, the S4 ranks above most competitors in performance. The 0-60 mph time for the Audi S4 in our testing was 4.2 seconds.
What is a Audi S4 worth?
2021 Audi S4 Value - $27,430-$37,864 | Edmunds.
Are old Audi S4 reliable?
The Audi S4 doesn't have a good reputation when it comes to reliability. RepairPal gave it an underwhelming reliability score of only 2.0 out of 5.0. The S4 is known to have a lot of issues like a failed thermostat, turbocharger failure, engine oil leaks, and premature brake wear, among others.
What is the top speed of the 1993 Audi S4?
150 mph
Performance
| Horsepower | 227 @ 5900 RPM |
|---|---|
| Torque | 258 @ 1950 rpm |
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.2 Liter |
| 0 to 60 | 6.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 150 mph |
How many miles can an S4 last?
You can expect the average Audi S4 to last up to and potentially over 100,000 miles without the need for significant repairs, but only if you take the time to perform routine maintenance while driving in a safe and controlled manner.
Is an Audi S4 a fast car?
0-60 MPH Times
Looking at the numbers, the S4 ranks above most competitors in performance. The 0-60 mph time for the Audi S4 in our testing was 4.2 seconds.
1993 Audi S4 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S4 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Audi S4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Audi S4 complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Audi S4.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-07
- VIN: WAUHP84A3PN
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS WAS A CONSUMER CALL RECEIVED BY REGIONAL OFFICE STAFF, AND IS BEING RELAYED. VEHICLE HAS AN ACTIVE FUEL SYSTEM RECALL, AND DEALER IN SALT LAKE CITY, UT SCHEDULED REPAIR, BUT CANCELLED THE REPAIR APPOINTMENT DUE TO NOT HAVING PROPER BILLING CODE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR BY THE MANUFACTURER. PLEASE CONTACT CONSUMER DIRECTLY FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND TO ASSIST HIM IN RESOLVING THIS ISSUE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-01
- VIN: WAUHP84A4PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I OWN TWO OF THE ORIGINAL AUDI S4'S, BOTH 1993 MODELS. MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING ONE OF THESE CARS IN 2007 AND THE THROTTLE STUCK OPEN SO THAT THE ENGINE RACED UNCONTROLLABLY. SHE WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CLUTCH IN AND STOP THE CAR AND TURN THE ENGINE OFF. THEN SHE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE NEAREST REPAIR SHOP. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT A PLASTIC PART ON THE TIP OF THE THROTTLE CAM HAD BROKEN OFF AND AS A RESULT THE THROTTLE CABLING MECHANISM STUCK IN THE PARTIALLY "OPEN" POSITION. I HAD THE THROTTLE CAM REPLACED WITH AN ALL STAINLESS STEEL CAM WHICH CANNOT BREAK DOWN AS A RESULT OF HEAT, AS PLASTIC OR A SIMILAR PRODUCT CAN DO. I HAD OEM CAMS REPLACED IN BOTH S4'S. AUDI DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM IN OCTOBER 2007. I HAVE RECOMMENDED TO AUDI THAT ALL 1992-1997 S4 AND S6 MODELS BE RECALLED AND THAT ALL THROTTLE CAMS BE REPLACED WITH AN ALL STAINLESS STEEL CAM (FOR EXAMPLE, ONE FABRICATED BY 034 MOTORSPORT IN FREMONT, CA.) AT LEAST ONE OTHER INSTANCE OF UNINTENDED ACCELERATION, DUE TO FAILURE OF THE OEM THROTTLE CAM, HAS BEEN REPORTED ON THE "WEB" -- IN FACT THAT REPORT LED ME TO 034 MOTORSPORT'S SOLUTION. I KNOW I NEVER RECEIVED, FROM AUDI, A NOTICE OF THIS POTENTIAL PROBLEM. DATE SHOWN BELOW IS APPROXIMATE. I WOULD HAVE TO FIND THE TOWING BILL TO BE PRECISE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-08
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I RUN A SMALL REPAIR SHOP AND HAVE SEEN A NUMBER OF AUDI VEHICLES FROM 1986 TO 1998 WHICH HAVE STEEL GASOLINE LINES THAT COLLECT ROAD SALT AND RUST IN THE RUBBER SUPPORT GROMMETS ATTACHED TO THE CHASSIS. THE RUST CAUSES A PINHOLE LEAK WHICH THEN BEGINS TO SPRAY GASOLINE ON THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. I HAVE SEEN 5 OR 6 VEHICLES LIKE THIS IN THE PAST 5 YEARS AND SAW ANOTHER ONE LAST WEEK. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-25
- VIN: WAUHP84A7PN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: PLASTIC THROTTLE CABLE PIECE BROKE RESULTING IN STUCK THROTTLE CONDITION. FOR AN ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT ALONG WITH PHOTOS SEE THE URL BELOW. *NM HTTP://WWW.S-CARS.ORG/POSTNUKE/MODULES.PHP?OP=MODLOAD&NAME=NEWS&FILE=ARTICLE&SID=183
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-10
- VIN: WAUHP84A7PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I HAD PREVIOUSLY CONTACTED NHSTA REGARDING FUEL LINE LEAKS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OF THE EALRY S4 AND S6 MODELS. THIS RESULTED IN THE "KY" RECALL CAMPAIGN. MORE RECENTLY, SOME OWNERS HAVE BEEN DISCOVERING LEAKS IN THE FUEL LINES GOING FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR TO THE FRONT. THESE LEAKS OCCUR AT THE POINT WHERE THE FUEL LINE GOES THROUGH RUBBER ISOLATION/MOUNTING BLOCKS. MOISTURE ACCUMULATES AT THESE POINTS AND CORRODES THE FUEL LINE RESULTING IN LEAKS. I DISCOVERED THIS ON MY OWN CAR IN EARLY 2002 AND I KEEP HEARING FROM MORE AND MORE PEOPLE FINDING THE SAME THING. THESE CARS HAVE BEEN EXTREMELY GOOD IN OTHER AREAS BUT THE FUEL SYSTEM PLUMING LEAVES MUCH TO BE DESIRED. DT
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-06
- VIN: WAUHP84A3PN
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DURING A RAINSTORM THE REAR END BROKE HARD TO THE RIGHT SENDING THE VEHICLE INTO A COUNTERCLOCKWISE SPIN, AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE HIT A LAMPOST.NLM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-01
- VIN: WAUHR84A8PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LINE FAILED WHERE BRAIDED LINE MEETS SOLID BRASS LINE. HAS HAPPENED IN MANY OTHER CARS OF THIS MODEL RELATIVE TO THE TOTAL NUMBER SOLD.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-28
- VIN: WAUHR84A3PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FAILURE IS WHERE HOSE FROM FILTER IS PRESS FIT TO METAL FUEL LINE
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
- VIN: WAUHP84A5PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FAILED FUEL LINE WAS CUT OFF AND REPLACED WITH FUEL INJECTION HOSE AND CLAMPS.BY MY AUDI TRAINED MECHANIC. THIS REPAIR WAS NOT SUCCESSFUL AND THE FUEL BEGAN LEAKING AGAIN ON APRIL 1, 1999. I CONTACTED AUDI OF AMERICAN AT THE ADVISE OF THE AUDI S CAR INTERNET WEBSITE. MANY OTHER OWNERS HAD POSTED THE SAME PROBLEM. AOA INTERVENED AND THE REPAIR WAS MADE AT NO COST BY SCHAUMBURG AUDI IN ILLINOIS.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-04
- VIN: WAUHR84A2PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL LINE FAILURE OCCURS INCHES FROM THE TURBO, CREATING A DANGEROUS FIRE HAZARD!
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-05
- VIN: WAUHP84A9PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LINE LEAK...NOTICED FAINT FUEL SMELL ON MORNING OF 6/5/99 (COLD WEATHER THAT MORNING).. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN FOUND BY SEVERAL OTHER OWNERS. I HAVE NOT BEEN TO A DEALER ABOUT IT, BUT I KNOW THAT IT IS A PROBLEM WITH MY CAR.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-20
- VIN: WAUHP84A6PN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PLEASE SEE WEB SITE S-CARS.ORG F.A.Q RE LEAKING FUEL LINES.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-01
- VIN: WAUHP84A5PN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WAUHP84AXPN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: METAL FUEL LINE LEAKING ONTO ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUSING FUMES TO ENTER PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF VEHICLE. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THERE WAS A LOT OF VIBRATION IN FRONT END. ABS BRAKES WERE NOT FUNCTIONING/LOCKED UP, CAUSING VEHICLE TO VIBRATE. ALSO, FRONT LEFT WHEEL HAD SMOKE COMING FROM IT. DEALER HAD TO REPLACE ALL BRAKE ROTORS AND REAR CALIPERS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-29
- VIN: WAUHP84A1PN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BOUGHT THE CAR FROM MY MOTHER WHO BOUGHT IT NEW JANUARY 1993 FROM HIGHLAND PARK AUDI, HIGHLAND PARK IL. NO SPECIFIC DEFECT CITED IN THE SUMMARY.
1993 Audi S4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1993 Audi S4.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A FUEL FEED LINE CONNECTING THE FUEL FILTER TO THE ENGINE CAN PREMATURELY AGE AND SHRINK THROUGH EXPOSURE TO HIGH UNDER HOOD TEMPERATURE CAUSED BY THE TURBOCHARGER.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN FUEL SEEPAGE AT THE CONNECTION.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ENTIRE FUEL FEED LINE FROM THE FUEL FILTER TO THE ENGINE WITH A FUEL LINE OF SHRINKAGE-PROOF MATERIAL.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME AIR BAG SENSORS DO NOT COMPLY WITH AUDI'S DURABILITY STANDARDS OVER THE LIFETIME OF THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT THE SENSOR SHOULD MALFUNCTION, THE AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM CAN INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY. DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITHOUT WARNING COULD CAUSE A DRIVER TO LOSE VEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG SENSOR CONTROL MODULE.
Negative 1993 Audi S4 car reviews
Positive 1993 Audi S4 car reviews
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The original S4 is such an awesome car, especially the '92! It's got a rear sway bar, which is something that every other year lacked. Additionally, it was the only year to offer the boost gauge and wood interior. With great potential to be a really fast car (400 hp+), it's definitely a great all-around car, and still holds up by today's standards. The only downside is that parts can be hard to find due to the very limited production run of the S4/S6 (approximately 5,000 made it to the US and Canada).
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with this vehicle. I actually bought it from a family member almost two years ago and I have to say, I've loved every minute of ownership! I did have a bit of trouble with first gear (it's a 5 speed manual) and there was a nasty grinding noise. I knew going in that I would have to have the transmission replaced, but since then, I've absolutely loved driving the vehicle. I agree with many of the posts that the turbo is amazing when it kicks in!
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This car is a fantastic example of German engineering. It's fast, fun, and reliable, excelling in all areas. With Quattro, it can handle driving in rain or snow with ease, while other cars struggle for traction.
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The S4 is an amazing blend of luxury and performance. Its unique 5-cylinder turbo engine, coupled with a 5-speed transmission and all-wheel drive, makes driving this car an absolute blast. Accelerating through the curves is a thrilling experience, and the quattro system keeps you glued to the road. I'm looking forward to putting many more miles on this beauty!
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Your 1994 Audi S4 sounds like an exceptional vehicle! It's amazing that after 13 years, you're still happy with it. It's great to hear that you've had absolutely no mechanical problems with it and that it has a classic design. It's impressive that it still looks so good that no one believes it's 13 years old. With only 102,000 miles on it, it sounds like it still has a lot of life left in it. Your son must be thrilled that you're planning to pass it down to him. It's wonderful that it has power whenever you need it on the highway. It sounds like you wouldn't change a thing, and we can see why!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Audi S4 problems:
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Are you having problems with your 1993 Audi S4?
Easter O'Hara 2024-03-17
I bought my S4 based on its impressive performance and longevity. However, I was not aware of the high cost of operation. Although I had seen many of these cars modified for extra horsepower and hitting 300k miles, I encountered several issues and anticipated more to come. Considering the car's nearly $50k sticker price, one would expect it to be more reliable. Nonetheless, the drivetrain and quattro systems are exceptional and provide an enjoyable driving experience in both snow and dry pavement. Unfortunately, the other systems and components have been problematic. Even when new, this car required repairs or adjustments every 10k miles.