2004 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 2004 Audi S4 problems
The 2004 Audi S4 has been known to have various engine problems, with one of the most common being a broken valve spring causing a loss of compression in one cylinder. This issue can lead to the engine misfiring and running rough, requiring extensive repairs. To diagnose this problem, mechanics typically perform a compression test on the cylinders, which can reveal a lack of compression in one or more cylinders. In the case described, the engine had to be removed, disassembled, and inspected to determine the cause of the problem. The cylinder heads were removed to assess the damage, and it was found that a valve spring had broken, causing the valve to drop and lose compression. Fortunately, in this instance, there was no further damage, and the engine could be repaired without requiring a complete overhaul or replacement.
Another common issue with the 2004 Audi S4 is related to the timing chain mechanism. The engine in this model features a complex timing chain system, which can be challenging to service. When issues arise with the timing chain, it may require extensive disassembly of the engine to access and repair the problem.
In addition to engine problems, the 2004 Audi S4 has also been known to have issues with the wiper linkage, which may need replacement. This can be a relatively expensive repair, costing around $300.
When considering purchasing a 2004 Audi S4, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and be prepared for the possibility of expensive repairs. It is recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any potential problems before making a purchase. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or catch issues early, potentially saving on repair costs in the long run.
Is the Audi S4 engine reliable?
Audi S4 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Audi S4 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 27th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,171 which means it has poor ownership costs.
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 the 2004 Audi S4 turbocharged?
“We don't need no stinkin' turbos,” declared the folks at Audi, who dropped into the small S4 their big engine. The powerplant is a 4.2-liter, V-8 (no turbo nor super-charger), that delivers 340 ponies into a car that a 4-cylinder may well move along just fine.
What is the top speed of the Audi S4 2004?
155.3 mph
Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.3 mph). The B6 S4 saloon and Avant variants ceased factory production in December 2004, with the Cabriolet ending twelve months later at December 2005.
Is the Audi S4 engine reliable?
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. Maintaining an unreliable sedan like the Audi S4 can be costly, but facing a few common issues is worth it if owning a high-performance car can give you a lot of joy.
Is the 2004 Audi S4 fast?
How fast is the 2004 Audi S4? The 2004 S4 boasts 340 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 6.9 seconds. For a more detailed look at the 2004 S4 specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 2004 Audi S4 specs page.
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 Audi S4 2004?
155.3 mph
Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.3 mph). The B6 S4 saloon and Avant variants ceased factory production in December 2004, with the Cabriolet ending twelve months later at December 2005.
2004 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Audi S4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Audi S4
The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Audi S4. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Audi S4 vehicles.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-28
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: HANKOOK TIRES, VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 SPLITTING OUTSIDE SIDEWALL, CAUSED TO DEPRESSURE TIRE, WHICH CAUSED TO CRACK TIRE ON THE INNER SIDEWALL SUBSEQUENTLY LED TO MANUFACTURER CLAIM BLAME ON MY VEHICLE. THE TIRE MODEL IS UNDER A RECALL, BUT IN DIFFERENT SIZE, BUT IDENTICAL WALLS, MANUFACTURING PROCESS. MY VEHICLE'S TIRE SIZE 235/40/R18. RECALLED: VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 '245/45R18 96W', '245/40R19 94W', '275/35R19 96W PROPER TIRE PRESSURE WAS MAINTAINED AND CHECKED WEEKLY FOR 3YEARS, SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-20
- VIN: WAUPL68E94A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: AFTER ENGINE COOLS DOWN, TIMING CHAIN RATTLE CAN BE HEARD UPON STARTING THE CAR. CHAIN RATTLE MEANS THAT PLASTIC GUIDES OR ADJUSTERS ARE WORN, AND MIGHT GO ANY SECOND. SPOKE WITH AUDI REP ONLINE, WHICH ADVISES ME THAT THIS IS NORMAL, AND EXPECTED. KNOWING BASICS OF ENGINES AND TRANSMISSION, I DIDN'T BELIEVE THAT SOMETHING IS "LIFE TIME" AND IS NOT SERVICEABLE, ESPECIALLY IF IT'S PLASTIC (WHICH TENDS TO SHRINK AND EXPAND DEPENDING ON TEMPERATURES, AND THEN HAS FRACTURES WHICH SNAPS). TWO DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT LICENSED AUDI SHOPS CONFIRMED THAT THE GUIDES AND ADJUSTERS HAS TO BE REPLACED IN ORDER TO PREVENT CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. CHAIN SKIPPING A TOOTH MIGHT MEAN BENT VALVES, SCORED CYLINDER WALLS AND THE LIST GOES ON. WHAT IS LIFETIME, SHOULD BE COVERED BY AUDI. IF IT'S PROMISED TO BE LIFETIME AND NEEDS NO SERVICE, SHOULDN'T BREAK. IF IT BREAKS THAT ONLY MEANS DESIGN FLAWS, WHICH ARE OBVIOUS IN THIS ENGINE. YES, CAR ISN'T NEW, BUT THE PARTS WERE LIFETIME, SO I'M EXPECTING THEM TO LAST UNTIL ENGINE IS WORN OUT, NOT THE PARTS THAT ARE LIFETIME. IF NHTSA WILL DO FULL SCALE INVESTIGATION. WILL BE OBVIOUS THAT LARGE AMOUNT OF S4'S RANGING FROM 2004 TO 2007 ARE AFFECTED. EVEN 10% IS LARGE NUMBER, CONSIDERED THE COSTS OF FIXING WHAT IS "LIFETIME" ACCORDING TO AUDI, AND WHEN IT FAILS THEY LEAVE THEIR DESIGNS FLAWS FOR YOU TO FIGURE OUT. HOPEFULLY JUSTICE CAN BE BROUGHT TO LIGHT AS TO WHAT AUDI TRIES TO TURN IT'S BACK TO. SYMPTOMS: CHAIN RATTLE UPON START. CHAIN RATTLE DOESN'T GO AWAY WHILE DRIVING. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, LOSS OF POWER OR CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-15
- VIN: WUARL48HX4K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: XENON HEADLAMPS WIRING ALL CORRODED AND BARE WITH NO INSULATION LEFT. CHECK WITH AUDI AND THEY SAID OUR VEHICLE AND VIN IS NOT PART OF ANY RECALL. YET RCORRD-05V096-4498 IN YOUR DATABASE SHOWS A MOFIFICATION LETTER FROM VW TO INCLUDE OUR VIN. THERE IS NO RECORD ACCORDING TO AUDI SERVICE SHOPS THAT SHOW ANY RECALL WORK DONE TO OUR HEADLIGHTS. I HAVE ATTACHED A PICTURE THAT SHOWS THE DETERIATION OF THE ELECTRICAL WIRING AND HEADLAMPS TO OUR 2004 AUDI S4. WOULD APPRECIATE SOME ASSISTANCE TO HAVING OUR HEADLAMPS REPLACED FOR SAFETY REASONS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WUARL48HX4K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 AUDI S4. WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, THE LOW BEAM HEAD LAMPS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WITHOUT WARNING. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO THE HEAD LAMP BULBS, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE WIRING WAS BURNED AND DAMAGED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-15
- VIN: WAUPL68E74A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ON SATURDAY MORNING 12/15/2014 START MY CARD AND HEARD A RATTLE NOISE ON THE ENGINE, FIRST TIME IT MAKE THAT NOISE SINCE I BOUGHT IT. ON MY WAY TO WORK I STARTED HEARING THE RATTLE NOISE AGAIN BUT THIS TIME IT WAS LOUDER I WAS DRIVING AROUND 40 MPH WHEN THIS HAPPENED. THE CAR STARTED VIBRATING AND KEPT MAKING THE RATTLE NOISE ON THE ENGINE. I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR NOT EVEN A WEEK AGO, AND ALREADY STARTED HAVING ENGINE PROBLEMS. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC AND FOUND OUT THE ENGINE MIGHT NEED TO BE REPLACE SOON, SINCE THAT'S A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS CARS AND THAT THAT'S ONE OF THE SIGNS THAT THE ENGINE MIGHT GO BAD SOON. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-03
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: AUDI CLAIMS THAT THE TIMING CHAIN ON THOSE VEHICLES ARE LIFETIME AND DOES NOT NEED TO BE SERVICE. UNFORTUNATE THE TIMING CHANGE TENSIONERS ARE MADE OF PLASTIC WHICH THE WEAR OUT AT ABOUT 50K MILES, CAUSING A START UP RATTLE AND EVENTUALLY ENGINE EXPLOSION FROM THE CHAIN COMING OF THE GUIDES AND DESTROYING THE ENTIRE ENGINE AND CAUSING A MASSIVE ACCIDENT AT HIGH SPEED. HUNDREDS OF PROBLEMS LIKE THIS ONE ARE REPORTED ONLINE FROM THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE EVEN YOUTUBE VIDEOS. NOT TO MENTION THAT EVERY TIME YOU BRING YOUR VEHICLE AND COMPLAINT TO AUDI THE CLAIM THAT THE RATTLE IS NORMAL; JUST TO FIND OUT THAT IS THE FIRST CLUE OF FUTURE ENGINE FAILURE. *TR
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-15
- VIN: WAUPL68E24A
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 AUDI S4. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 25 MPH WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED AND BECAME STIFF AND HARD TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHO CONFIRMED THERE WAS A PUNCTURED HOSE CAUSING THE STEERING TO FAIL. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED ON A SEPARATE OCCASION THAT HE HEARD A SQUEALING NOISE AFTER THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE BRAKES TO MALFUNCTION WHEN THEY WERE APPLIED. THE DEALER STATED THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-01
- VIN: WAUPL68E64A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2004 AUDI S4. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE FAILED WHILE DRIVING, ENGINE, POWER BRAKES AND STEERING LOCKED UP *TGW THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER, THE VEHICLE HAD SUFFERED CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, WHICH WAS MOST LIKELY DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE TIMING CHAIN OR ADJUSTERS. THE CONSUMER WAS QUOTED A PRICE OF $24,000 FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CONSUMER HAS SINCE LEARNED IT WAS A RELATIVELY COMMON PROBLEM FOR HIS MODEL AND YEAR. THE SPECIFIC MECHANICAL FLAW SEEMED TO BE THAT THE TIMING CHAIN COORDINATED THE ACTION BETWEEN THE PISTONS AND THE VALVES. THE TIMING CHAIN WAS SUPPORTED BY SEVERAL PLASTIC GUIDES. THE GUIDES PUSHED AGAINST THE CHAIN BY THE ADJUSTERS. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-22
- VIN: WAUPL68E04A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I OWN A 2004, AUDI, S4 WHICH I PURCHASED USED FROM MY BROTHER, WHO BOUGHT IT NEW. I BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM HIM WITH 45,000 MILES ON IT. AT 55,000 MILES THE CAR HAD CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. 5,000 MILES OVER THE WARRANTY PERIOD! THE MECHANIC THAT IS REPAIRING THE DAMAGE SAID IF ONE MORE COMPONENT WOULD HAVE BROKE IT COULD HAVE CAUSED ME TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASH. THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE TO BE REPAIRED. I CONTACTED AUDI OF U.S.A. TO,1. ALERT THEM OF THIS PROBLEM AND POSSIBLE SAFETY ISSUE, 2. BECAUSE THE CAR IS ONLY 5,000 MILES OVER THE WARRANTY AND IT HAD SUCH MASSIVE FAILURE I BELIEVE IT ONLY REASONABLE TO ASK FOR SOME HELP IN THE COST OF REPAIRS. THE REPAIR COST ARE GOING TO BE BETWEEN 4,000 AND 5,000 DOLLARS. 3. I WORK IN QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR A COMPANY AND I REALLY WANTED TO SPEAK WITH THEIR QUALITY ASSURANCE AND ALERT THEM TO THIS BIG PROBLEM. IT IS CRUCIAL THEY (AUDI) UNDERSTAND THE PROBLEM. THE REPS AT AUDI OF U.S.A. THAT I SPOKE WITH WOULD NOT HELP (EXCEPT TO LISTEN, THEY ARE GOOD AT THAT), AND WERE NOT COOPERATING WITH ME IN THE PROCESS OF TRYING DESPERATELY TO ALERT THEIR QUALITY PEOPLE OF THIS FAILURE THAT OCCURRED TO MY CAR. I BELIEVE I WAS COMPLETELY IGNORED AND I NEED TO FIND OUT HOW I CAN EFFECTIVELY REPORT THIS. NOT ONLY TO AUDI BUT ALSO OTHER PEOPLE WHO OWN THE SAME VEHICLE. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE MADE PUBLIC. THANK YOU. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-20
- VIN: WUARL48H64K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2004 AUDI S4 CONVERTIBLE - 40K - REAR WINDOW OF CONVERTIBLE TOP HAS SEPARATED FROM TOP - APPEARS TO BE GLUE, ATTACHMENT METHOD FAILURE. CALLED AUDI OF AMERICA REQUESTING ASSISTANCE, V. NICE - WANTED TO INITIATE CONVERSATION / INSPECTION 'AT DEALER LEVEL'. LOCAL DEALER LOOKS AT IT AND QUOTE $4350 TO REPLACE ENTIRE ROOF. DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN AUDI OF AMERICA AND DEALER APPARENTLY ENSURE WHERE 'LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION' TO ASSIST IS DISCUSSED. WE HAD PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED A NEW S4 AT THIS DEALER IN 2000 AND TRIED TO PURCHASE S4 CONVERTIBLE FROM THEM IN 2007. WE HAD OWNED 10 (TEN) VWS PRIOR. FURTHER, ASST SVC MGR AT AUDI OF TYSONS CORNER ADVISED THAT I SHOULD HAVE GARAGED MY VEHICLE, PROBLEM WOULD NOT BE FAILURE OF ADHERING PROPERTY, BUT CLEARLY NOT MAINTAINED PROPERLY BY ME. MY REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE WAS REFUSED BY THE DEALER BECAUSE OF 'DEALER LOYALTY'. AUDI OF AMERICA SAID THEY COULD NOT OFFER ANY HELP EITHER. I SEE ON THIS SITE THAT MANY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEMS WITH 03 CONVERTIBLE PRODUCTS AND PRIOR TO READING THOUGHT THAT THIS ISSUE IS SOMEWHAT IF NOT ENTIRELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF AUDI - AFTER ALL - SHOULD WE ANTICIPATE REPLACING AN ENTIRE ROOF FOR ALMOST $5000 AT ONLY SIX YEARS ???? AS A HUMOROUS ENDNOTE - THE DEALER CALLED ME TODAY - WE HAD LOOKED AT CARS WHILE THERE - THEY WANT ME TO COME BY - TEST DRIVE AND BUY :-) *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-30
- VIN: WUARL48H94K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IN JANUARY 2009 I ATTEMPTED TO CHANGE THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE ON MY 2004 AUDI S4. I USED THE CAR JACK THAT COMES WITH THE CAR. AFTER LIFTING THE CAR UP ON THE PROPER POSITION (AS EXPLAINED IN THE AUDI USERS MANUAL) THE CAR JACK BROKE APART UNDER THE WEIGHT OF THE CAR. THE GROUND IN MY GARAGE IS EVEN AND MADE OUT OF CONCRETE AND THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WAS IN P AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS FULLY APPLIED SO THAT MOVEMENT OF THE CAR WHILE LIFTED WAS IMPOSSIBLE. THE AUDI DEALER I COMPLAINED TO REPLACED THE CAR JACK AND FIXED THE DAMAGE ON THE RIGHT LOWER SIDE OF MY CAR WITHOUT ANY CHARGES. TWO WEEKS AGO I HAD A FLAT ON THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF MY CAR AGAIN COMING UP INTERSTATE I 55 FROM CAPE GIRARDEAU MO. WHEN USING THE NEW CAR JACK (SAME MODEL) THAT THE AUDI DEALER HAD GIVEN ME AFTER THE PRIOR INCIDENT. AND AS YOU PROBABLY GUESSED THE SAME HAPPENED AGAIN. THIS TIME I WAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BUT THE CIRCUMSTANCES WERE NOT MUCH DIFFERENT. AFTER I STOPPED THE CAR, I SELECTED PARK ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSACTION AND APPLIED THE EMERGENCY CAR BRAKE. AFTER LOOSENING UP THE BOLTS I PLACED THE CAR JACK AS EXPLAINED IN AUDIS USER MANUAL UNDER THE CAR ON THE FRONT RIGHT SIDE AND LIFTED THE CAR UP. THEN I ATTEMPTED TO TAKE OF THE TIRE WHEN THE JACK SUDDENLY GAVE IN AS DONE IN THE FIRST SITUATION EXPLAINED ABOVE. FORTUNATELY THE CAR DROPPED WITH THE ROTOR ONTO THE INSIDE OF THE RIM OF THE TIRE I WAS ABOUT TO PULL OF. I HAD TO CALL A FRIEND WHO WAS BRINGING ME A DIFFERENT CAR JACK SO I COULD PUT ON THE SPARE TIRE. LATER I FOUND OUT THAT THE RIGHT ROTOR WAS SLIGHTLY DAMAGED AFTER DROPPING ONTO THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE RIM. NOBODY WAS HURT BUT I TRULY BELIEVE THAT THIS CAR JACK IS DANGEROUS AS IT DOESNT SEEM TO BE MADE TO CARRY THE WEIGHT OF MY CAR. I WORKED FOR BMW AS A LICENSED CAR MECHANIC IN THE PAST AS WELL WAS A MAINTENANCE CREW CHIEF WORKING ON FIGHTER JETS WELL CAPABLE OF CHANGING A TIRE; IF THIS HAPPENS TO ME THEN I BELIEVE IT CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME TO ANYBODY USING THIS CAR JACK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-25
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE GOING 45MPH DUE TO BROKEN VALVE SPRING. FAULTY PART DOCUMENTED IN 5/2005 USA TODAY BUT AUDI WILL NOT REPAIR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-18
- VIN: WAUPL68E44A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAR ENGINE WAS MISFIRING - WAS INFORMED A FAULTY COIL PACK WAS CAUSING THE ISSUE. ONE WEEK LATER THE MISFIRES STARTED AGAIN. TWO MORE COIL PACKS WERE REPLACED. 2 WEEKS LATER ANOTHER MISFIRING EPISODE. CAR DIED AT INTERSECTION SO WAS TOWED IN FOR INSPECTION. CAMSHAFT ADJUSTER/CAM GUIDES HAD FAILED. PARTS WERE REPLACED FOR 5K AND THEN 2 WEEKS LATER CYLINDER 3 FAILED WHEN VALVE AND PISTON INTERACTED - CAR DIED AGAIN ON THE HIGHWAY. CAR ENGINE IS GOING TO NEED TOTAL ENGINE REPLACEMENT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-15
- VIN: WAUPL68E04A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SEE THE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINTS: 10267048, 10263937, 10262201, 10261864, AND 10261281 MY FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH THE CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE OF THE "CAM CHAIN TENSIONER" COMPONENTS WAS IN DEC OF 2008 ON THE BANK 2 CAM. FAULT CODE "SET POINT NOT REACHED (OVER-RETARDED)." WITH MISFIRES TO ALL CYLINDERS ON BANK 2 - ALL BUT RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNABLE TO DRIVE. THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY 54,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THOUGH OUT OF WARRANTY I CONTACTED AUDI TO NO AVAIL. I AM SORELY DISAPPOINTED IN AUDI FOR ENGINEERING SUCH SHODDY DESIGN, AND NOT STANDING BY THEIR PRODUCT. IN FACT CRISWELL AUDI CHARGED $300 FOR AN ECU UPDATE THAT DID NOTHING. ALTHOUGH THE S4 IS A LOW VOLUME CAR THE 4.2L ENGINE IS USED IN MANY OF THEIR PRODUCTS; AND IF THIS COMPLAINT VENUE ANY INDICATION IT APPEARS TO SUFFER A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS FAILURES. THE COST TO DROP THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IN ORDER TO MAKE THE REPAIR WAS ~$4,500. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-29
- VIN: WAUPL68E04A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SEE THE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINTS: 10267048, 10263937, 10262201, 10261864, 10261281, AND 10294798. MY SECOND EXPERIENCE WITH THE CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE OF THE "CAM CHAIN TENSIONER" COMPONENTS WAS IN NOV OF 2009 ON THE BANK 1 CAM. FAULT CODE "SET POINT NOT REACHED (OVER-RETARDED)." WITH MISFIRES TO ALL CYLINDERS ON BANK 1 - LESS THAN ONE YEAR FROM THE SAME FAILURE ON BANK 2 (SEE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINT #10294798). THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. AS I MENTIONED BEFORE, ALTHOUGH THE S4 IS A LOW VOLUME CAR THE 4.2L ENGINE IS USED IN MANY OF THEIR PRODUCTS; AND IF THIS COMPLAINT VENUE ANY INDICATION THE ENGINE APPEARS TO SUFFER A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS FAILURES. THE COST TO DROP THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IN ORDER TO MAKE THE REPAIR WAS ANOTHER ~$4,500. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-20
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: 2004 S4 WIPERS STOP WORKING (STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF WINDSHIELD) IN RAIN, MOTOR WORKS SEEMS AS SOMETHING SIZED, IN SOME SITUATIONS MAY CAUSE BIG DAMAGE AND INJURY. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-16
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE IN RAIN ALL WINDOWS FOGGING UP FROM INSIDE, UNABLE TO DEFOG, THE A/C WILL NOT TURN ON, CHECKED FOR LEAKS - NO LEAKS OBSERVED, SPORADICALLY THE A/C TURNS ON AND OFF, VERY COMMON PROBLEM IN CARS FROM THIS YEAR, MAY CAUSE DAMAGE AND INJURY. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-02
- VIN: WAUPL58E34A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 S4 WHICH CRUNCHES WHEN SHIFTING INTO 2ND AND 3RD GEAR. AUDI REPLACED THE SYNCHROS BUT THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. I HAVE RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP NUMEROUS TIMES BUT THEY KEEP TELLING ME ITS NORMAL. THE CRUNCHES OCCURS EVERYTIME I DRIVE IT AND ALSO MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO GET INTO GEAR. THE VEHICLES RPMS WILL SOMETIMES STICK, KEEPING THE VEHICLE MOVING WHEN NOT UNDER ACCELERATION.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-22
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AT 44,000 MILES MY CAR HAS CATASTROPHIC FAILURE DUE TO DEFECTIVE PARTS. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS I STATED ABOVE BECAUSE MANY PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THE ENGINE REVVING UP. THE TRANSMISSION CAN ALSO BE A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IT TYPICALLY HAPPENS UNDER HARD BRAKING WHICH ALL OF YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE IN GEAR YOU SLOW DOWN BETTER IF ALL OF A SUDDEN YOU POP OUT OF GEAR YOU CAR DOES NOT HAVE AS MUCH HOLDING YOU BACK. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-12
- VIN: WUARL48H34K
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE HAS INTERIOR DEFECTS AFTER 33,000 MILES. CAR IS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY DUE TO YEAR OF VEHICLE. THE FEMALE RECEPTOR OF THE BUCKLE HAS SOME OF THE INNER MECHANISM HANGING OUTSIDE OF THE LIP OF THE BUCKLE, MUCH DIFFERENT THAN THE OTHER BUCKLE NEXT TO IT WHICH IS IN NORMAL WORKING ORDER. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-14
- VIN: WAUPL68EX4A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE AND SEIZE AT 70MPH. PREVIOUS THE FAILURE, AUDI REPLACED BENT VALVES DUE TO TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER FAILURE. LESS THAN 300 MILES FROM NEW HEADS BEING INSTALLED, THE ENGINE FAILED COMPLETELY. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-13
- VIN: WAUPL68E74A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I GOT IN MY CAR THIS PAST FRIDAY TO LEAVE FOR WORK AND THEN MY CAR STARTS RUMBLING AND SOUNDS LIKE WHAT CAN BEST BE DESCRIBED AS A MUSCLE CAR. I ONLY LIVE A MILE FROM MY OFFICE SO I DRIVE MY CAR IN. WHILE DRIVING IT SEEMS LIKE THE CAR HAS LOST LOW END POWER AND IS STILL IDLING WITH A RUMBLE. WHEN I GET TO WORK I POP THE HOOD AND NOTICE THE ENTIRE MOTOR SHIFTING BACK AND FORTH AND MY BUDDY SEES MY EXHAUST IS MOVING UP AND DOWN. SO I DECIDE TO GET IT TO THE LOCAL GARAGE THAT HAS WORKED ON MY CAR BEFORE. HE IS ONLY ABOUT 2 BLOCKS DOWN FROM MY OFFICE. WHEN I PULL OUT FROM MY PARKING LOT THE CAR THROWS A CEL AND ABOUT 500 FT FROM THE GARAGE IT STARTS FLASHING. SO I COAST THE CAR INTO THE GARAGE AND GET THE CODES READ. THEY'RE COMING UP AS CYL. 4, 5, 6, AND 7 MISFIRES AND P0021 CAM TIMING ADJUST BANK 2 NOT REACHED. SO THE MECHANIC CLEARS THE CODES AND TAKES THE CAR AROUND THE BLOCK AND ONCE AGAIN THE CEL COMES ON AND THIS TIME IT SAYS CYL. 1,3,7, AND 8 MISFIRING AND THE P0021 CODE FOR THE CAM TIMING AND ALSO A NEW CODE P1317 BANK 2 CAM/CRANK ANGLE SENSOR WRONG COMBO OF ECU'S....TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT THE CAR WAS TOWED OVER 100 MILES AWAY TO THE NEAREST AUDI DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED AS HAVING A FAULTY CAM TENSIONER. THE WHOLE MOTOR NEEDS TO BE REMOVED AND TORE APART AND THE TENSIONER REPLACED. THE BILL IS $6286.18. MY CAR IS A 2004 AUDI S4 WITH ONLY 67,000 MILES ON IT AND I JUST PURCHASED IT ABOUT 5 MONTHS AGO. IT IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-11
- VIN: WAUPL68E84A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I DRIVE A 2004 AUDI S4. MY CAR SUFFERED A MAJOR FAILURE. THE MOTOR FAILED DUE TO A DESIGN BY AUDI AND THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE. THE CAR FAILED DUE TO THESE PLASTIC GUIDES THAT AUDI USES AS TIMING CHAIN GUIDES. THE GUIDES ARE NEVER SUPPOSED TO BE SERVICED ALTHOUGH WHEN THEY FAIL YOU HAVE TO PAY AT LEAST 4 THOUSAND DOLLARS TO GET THEM REPLACED BECAUSE THE MOTOR NEEDS TO BE PULLED TO REPLACE THEM. THEY ARE ON THE BACK OF THE MOTOR SO THERE IS NO WAY TO KNOW WHEN IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN. WHEN THE TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER OR THE GUIDES FAIL IT CAN AND WILL RESULT IN A MAJOR MOTOR FAILURE. IF THE MOTOR NEEDS TO BE REBUILT IT WILL COST AT LEAST $10,000. LUCKILY I HAD AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AND IT WAS COVERED, BUT I WOULD STILL LIKE TO NOTE THAT THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND AUDI SHOULD BE DOING SOMETHING BECAUSE THIS IS NOT A FAILURE THAT ONE WOULD EXPECT ON A 4 YEAR OLD CAR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-22
- VIN: WAUPL68E24A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2004 AUDI S4, BUILD DATE 09/03 : 1. 24 AUG 06- 16,500 MILES- A/C STOPPED WORKING- REPLACED ENTIRE A/C SYSTEM (COMPRESSOR, HOSES, PIPES, DRIER, RESTRICTOR) UNDER WARRANTY. 2. 10 APR 07- 23,253 MILES- CAR WON?T START- STARTER REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. PEALING SHIFT KNOB (CHROME SURROUND WAS PEALING AND THE EDGES WERE LIKE A RAZOR BLADE), REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. CENTER CONSOLE LATCH BROKEN- REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. 3. 22 FEB 08- 31,992 MILES- ENGINE REPLACED DUE TO FAULTY VALVE SEAT. SEAT BROKE ALLOWING VALVE TO BE SUCKED INTO CYLINDER AND THEN PUNCHED OUT THE SIDE OF THE BLOCK. ENGINE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. 4. 10 SEP 08- 37,448 MILES- A/C STOPPED WORKING. HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-12
- VIN: WAUPL68E04A
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 AUDI S4 THAT HAD CATASTROPHIC FAILURE AT ONLY 40,000 MILES DUE TO DEFECTIVE PARTS. THE CAR HAS A PROBLEM WHERE A TENSIONER I AM TOLD ALLOWS THE MOTOR TO REV UP EVEN WHEN YOUR FOOT IS NOT ON THE GAS PEDAL AND IT CAUSES DAMAGE TO THE MOTOR. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO MANY OWNERS, MOST WERE UNDER WARRANTY BECAUSE THIS PART FAILS AT SUCH A LOW MILEAGE, IN SOME CASES UNDER 100 MILES. NOT ONLY DOES THIS CAUSE UN SAFE SITUATIONS FOR THE DRIVER AS THE ENGINE CAN HAVE THIS REV UP HAPPEN MULTIPLE TIMES BEFORE THE ENGINE FAILS, IT ALSO CAUSES REPAIRS THAT ARE VERY VERY COSTLY AND NOT WORTH WHILE. WHEN I TOOK MY CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY ALSO DISCOVERED THAT MY TRANSMISSION IS NEEDING TO BE COMPLETELY REPLACED. THIS IS ALSO DUE TO DEFECTIVE METALS USED IN THE SYNCROS IS WHAT I AM TOLD. AUDI HAS NO DESIRE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM EVEN THOUGH THEY HAVE ADMITTED NONE OF THE PROBLEMS ARE DUE TO ABUSE BUT RATHER WEAK PARTS. EVEN THOUGH I AM OUT OF WARRANTY THAT SHOULD NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE WHEN THEY HAVE HAD SO MANY OF THE SAME EXACT CASES REPAIRED TO DATE. MY KBB VALUE IS 23,500 AND THE REPAIR COST WOULD BE AROUND $17,500. *TR
2004 Audi S4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2004 Audi S4.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF XENON HEADLAMP COATING DEGRADATION OVER TIME. THE LUMINOUS TRANSMITTANCE OF THE HEADLAMP MAY DECREASE OVER A PERIOD OF TIME.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD AFFECT A DRIVER'S FIELD OF VIEW, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT XENON HEADLAMP REFLECTORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 11, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.
Positive 2004 Audi S4 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Audi S4 problems:
04 Audi S4 Problems - AudiWorld Forums
Jun 16, 2009 ... I am looking at a 2004 Audi S4 with 65k miles to purchase. I have always been a Saab guy and would like to know what issues I should be on the ...
Want to buy a 2004 S4, how reliable?
Shoot on over to this forum for the B6 S4... http://www.audizine.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=46. As for reliability it largely depends on the car ...
2004 B6 S4: What to look for + Common failures? - AudiWorld Forums
Jul 10, 2009 ... I've owned it for almost 5 years and the maintenance problems I've had so far were: * Driver's side window regulator went. Replaced under ...
Here's Why The V8 Audi S4 Is An Awful Used Car
Dec 30, 2014 ... ... Audi forums, an Audi dealer charges around eight grand to fix this issue. You want to do it yourself? No problem. The parts alone are three ...
Looking at an 04 S4... common problems/issues/fragile parts? | VW ...
Nov 3, 2011 ... I'm considering purchasing a 2004 S4 6spd. My local VW/Audi dealer has one with fairly low miles on it (63k) that looks very clean and well kept ...
Other years of Audi S4
Are you having problems with your 2004 Audi S4?
Roy Nikolaus 2024-11-07
I waited six months to receive my Audi S4 after I ordered it and it was definitely worth the wait. This car excels in pretty much everything. It boasts a timeless design that will never get old. The Recaro seats are sublime and the interior is about as close to perfect as I've seen. It comfortably seats four people and I've taken several long trips with teenagers in the back, who had no complaints whatsoever, except for the lack of an integrated DVD player ;-) The power delivery through Audi's quattro is perfect and the V8 engine is both smooth and powerful. The power delivery is very linear and it's hard to keep the speeds down, even when I am trying. The only downside? Gas mileage could be better.
Otis Cole 2024-10-25
If you're in the market comparing the M3 and the C55 AMG, you must drive this car. It's an easier drive than the M3, and not as showy as the C55 (sometimes you don't want people to know what you have). The Quattro makes any roadway feel safe and stable, and the V8 makes this car move.
Conrad Dibbert 2024-10-07
This car is amazing. I looked at the Z06 and the M3 SMG2. The power is there on all 3 of them, but the build quality is really only there on the S4. The V8 makes all the difference in this car. It sounds incredible. The handling is there, and not quite as rough as the M3 or Vette. I love it! :)
Ismael Mohr 2024-10-03
Our family recently grew with the arrival of our third child. As a result, my wife and I had to make some changes to our vehicles. She got a minivan, while I opted for a world-class sports car that is cleverly disguised as a family station wagon - the Audi Avant. The exterior is sleek and stylish, with a black-on-black finish that looks amazing. But it's the interior that really impresses me - the two-tone black and grey Alcantara, Recaro seats, and both front and back seats are all top-notch. The Bose concert sound system is great, but what really gets my heart racing is the throaty rumble of the 340HP engine. And with Quattro all-wheel drive, I have complete confidence that my family is safe and secure in any weather. Of course, it's worth noting that with a big V8 engine, the Avant can be a bit thirsty in city driving. But on the highway, I've found the gas mileage to be comparable to other V8s.
Winfield Gleichner 2024-09-29
The car has amazing looks, performance, comfort, safety, and room for four real people. The top-down fun and all-wheel drive make it even better! The 6-speed stick is precise with crisp, short throws. I'm keeping the engine rpms below 4500 during this break-in period, but there is a ton of torque on hand in any gear! I can't wait to 'air it out'. I ordered the car back in January and took delivery exactly when expected. The Light Silver Alcantra interior is rich and luxurious and contrasts beautifully against the Black trim. I chose the optional Carbon-Fiber trim instead of the dark brown walnut. I ordered mine Moro (dark) Blue with a matching Blue top. The car feels very solid, hugging the road.