2006 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 2006 Audi S4 problems
The Audi S4, produced in 2006, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include:
- Coil Pack Failure: This is one of the most common issues with the B6/B7 S4. Coil pack failure can be identified by a CEL/Flashing CEL accompanied by mis-fires and a hard idle. Coil packs cost around $30 each new. If your coil packs fail under warranty, they will be replaced by the dealer. Common engine codes for coil pack failure include 16684 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected) and 16686 (Cylinder 2: Misfire Detected).
- Starter Issues: There have been several cases where the starter has gone on the S4. A bad starter can be detected while turning the key to start the car, with nothing happening. If you don't have a warranty, this can be a rather expensive repair.
- Air Conditioning: Broken condensers are a common complaint and aren't cheap to fix. Make sure the air conditioning of your prospective S4 is working before purchasing.
- Rear Differential Oil: It's a good idea to get the rear differential oil changed, as it might not have been done.
- Transmission Failure: The 2010 model year has been rated as the worst due to transmission failure, with an average cost to fix of $2,600 and an average mileage of 84,000 mi. The 2011 model year also has a reported problem with transmission failure, with an average cost to fix of $6,200 and an average mileage of 129,000 mi.
- Timing Chain: The timing chain is known to stretch and cause engine issues, which can be expensive to repair. It's recommended to replace the timing chain and related components as a preventative measure .
- Water Pump: The water pump is also known to fail, which can lead to engine overheating. It's recommended to replace the water pump and thermostat housing as a preventative measure .
- Suspension: The front suspension can wear out, causing a rough ride and potential handling issues. It's recommended to replace the front suspension components as a preventative measure .
- Clutch: The clutch can wear out, especially in high-performance driving. It's recommended to replace the clutch and related components as a preventative measure .
It's important to note that not all 2006 Audi S4s will experience these issues, and many owners have reported trouble-free ownership. However, being aware of these potential problems can help you make an informed decision when considering purchasing a 2006 Audi S4.
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.
How many miles do Audi S4 last?
A well maintained AUDI can be expected to last a LONG LONG time, as in twenty or thirty years and three or four hundred thousand miles.
Is the Audi S4 quick?
Verdict The Audi S4 is quick and light on its feet, but its clinical personality lacks the passion of leading sport-sedan rivals.
What is the top speed of the Audi S4 2006?
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.
Does the 2006 Audi S4 have a timing belt or chain?
Some of the 4 ring enthusiasts in the room may already know what car I'm talking about, but for the uninitiated it's the b7 S4, sold between 2006 and 2008. These cars had timing chains instead of belts, and some genius engineer decided they belonged at the back of the engine bay.
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 2006?
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.
2006 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:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
- Equipment adaptive/mobility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Audi S4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2006 Audi S4
The NHTSA has received 30 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Audi S4. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2006 Audi S4 vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-14
- VIN: WAUUL98E76A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PASSENGER HEADLIGHT STARTS ON. AFTER A FEW MINUTES I GET A HEADLIGHT DIPPED ERROR AND THE PASSENGER HEADLIGHT TURNS OFF.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: AS MANY OTHERS HAVE NOTICED ON THE B7 MODELS OF AUDI'S. THE PASSENGER HEADLIGHT WILL FLICKER AND GO OUT AT RANDOM TIMES, IT IS NOT A BULB PROBLEM IT HAS BEEN REPLACED MULTIPLE TIMES. IT IS CONCERNING WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT AND RANDOMLY MY HEADLIGHT WILL SHUT OFF. SOMETIMES WHEN I SHUT THE CAR OFF AND BACK IN IT WILL RETURN. THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH THESE HEADLIGHTS AS I HAVE READ IN OTHER PLACES. VERY DANGEROUS AND CONCERNING THEY WANT TO CHARGE 1000+ DOLLARS FOR EVERY CUSTOMER TO PUT IN A NEW HEADLIGHT. IT IS THEIR DUTY TO ENSURE SAFETY OF THEIR CUSTOMERS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-13
- VIN: WAUUL98E16A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL RECALL ISSUED JUNE '18, LOCAL DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY STILL DON'T HAVE PARTS TO COMPLETE RECALL WORK.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-05
- VIN: WAUUL98E16A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL NHSTA RECALL HV032, AUDI RECALL 69P6, JAN '17, LOCAL DEALER SAYS CANNOT COMPLETE RECALL WORK.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-17
- VIN: WAUUL78E46A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. I RECEIVED MY FIRST NOTICE OF THIS RECALL ON 1/17/17. IT IS CURRENTLY 10/31/17 WITH THE REPAIR NOT YET AVAILABLE. I'VE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP MANY TIMES TO NO AVAIL. I WAS AT DEALERSHIP YESTERDAY AND THEY TOLD ME THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS. WHEN WILL THIS HIGHLY DANGEROUS RECALL REPAIR BE AVAILABLE? THANK YOU.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-20
- VIN: WAUUL78E66A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. NOTIFIED 1 YEAR AGO AND I HAVE NOT BEEN CONTACTED TO HAVE THE AIR BAG REPLACED. CALLED FOR AN UPDATE A FEW MONTHS AGO AND THEY SAID THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE PARTS FOR MY VEHICLE YET.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-04
- VIN: WUAGL78E26A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 AUDI S4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V382000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-21
- VIN: WAUGL78E56A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 AUDI S4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V382000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT PROVIDE A RENTAL VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-08
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 AUDI S4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V382000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-27
- VIN: WUAGL78E76A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: RIGHT HEADLIGHT SPORADICALLY SHUTS OFF (I.E. DIPS) WHILE DRIVING. YOU HAVE TO TURN BOTH LIGHTS OFF AND ON WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING TO MAKE IT FUNCTION AGAIN. IT IS ALWAYS THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT AND SOMETIMES WILL FUNCTION PROPERLY FOR A MONTH AND THEN MALFUNCTION SEVERAL TIMES IN ONE NIGHT. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU NEED TO REACTIVATE THE LIGHT WHILE IN TRAFFIC AT HIGH SPEEDS OR WHEN THE DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE POOR. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING SINCE I PURCHASED THE CAR IN THE SUMMER OF 2010.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-21
- VIN: WAUGL78EX5A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BOTH HEADLIGHTS SHUTOFF WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT AND WOULD NOT COME BACK ON. BULBS ARE STILL IN GOOD CONDITION. ERROR CODE 'DIPPING HEADLIGHT' THIS IS A KNOWN SAFETY PROBLEM WITH AUDI AND IS EXTREMELY UNSAFE FOR THE DRIVER AND OTHER VEHICLES ON THE ROAD. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-14
- VIN: WAUGL68E05A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: FRONT HEADLIGHTS FLICKER THEN GO OUT. BULBS ARE NOT BURNED OUT THIS SEEMS TO BE A ELECTRICAL OR COMPUTER ISSUE. THROWS A CODE OF DIPPED FRONT HEAD LIGHT ALTERNATES BETWEEN LEFT AND RIGHT HEADLIGHT ON ANY GIVEN DAY. SEEMS LIKE THIS HAS BEEN A BIG ISSUE FOR AUDI BETWEEN 2006 AND 2008 HOWEVER NO RECALL HAS BEEN MADE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE WARRANTED DO TO THE FACT IT CANT BE FIXED BY CHANGING THE BULBS.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-14
- VIN: WAUGL78E36A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE 2006 AUDI S4 HAS A KNOWN HEADLIGHT ISSUE WHICH CAUSES THE HEADLIGHTS TO FAIL. THE BULBS ARE NOT BAD AND AUDI IS UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE ISSUE. AUDI DEALERS TELL CONSUMERS THAT THEY CAN CHANGE THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY AT $2500 PER LIGHT AND IT MAY SOLVE THE ISSUE, BUT THEY ARE NOT CERTAIN IT WILL. AUDI HAS BEEN NAMED IN A LAWSUIT ABOUT THE HEADLIGHTS AND HAS AGREED TO REPAIR SOME IF THEY ARE WITHIN WARRANTY CONSTRAINTS BUT CARS THAT ARE NOT WITHIN THE WARRANTY CONSTRAINTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE REPAIRED AT THE COST OF THE OWNER. THE HEADLIGHTS HAVE NOT WORKED SINCE THE CAR WAS ORIGINALLY RELEASED BUT AUDI HAS ONLY AGREED TO EXTEND THE WARRANTY FOR 5 YEARS OR 50,000 MILES FROM THE ORIGINAL CAR PURCHASE, HOWEVER THE SETTLEMENT WAS ISSUED IN 10/2013, A 2006 CAR WOULD BE OVER THE 5 YEARS IN 2011. IF THE AUDI OWNER CAN PROVE THEY HAD THE ISSUE PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF THE WARRANTY IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE REPAIRED AT NO COST, HOWEVER WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO GET MY FIXED, WITH PROOF ALL I GOT WAS A RUNAROUND FROM THE DEALER. I CALLED AUDI USA AND AFTER THREE WEEKS OF "RESEARCHING" THE ISSUE THEY CAME BACK AND SAID THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED SO THEY OFFERED NO COVERAGE DESPITE PROOF THAT THE ISSUE PREDATES WARRANTY EXPIRATION. THE HEADLIGHTS GIVE OFF A "DIPPED HEADLIGHT" WARNING AND THEN THE HEADLIGHT EITHER SEVERELY DIMS OR TURNS OFF ENTIRELY. IF YOU COMPLETELY TURN THE HEADLIGHTS OFF AND TURN THEM BACK ON AGAIN THEN SOMETIMES THE ERROR WILL RESOLVE. IT HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY TYPICALLY WHEN THE CAR HITS A BUMP. THIS IS VERY UNSAFE BUT RATHER THAN DO THE RIGHT THING AND ISSUE A COMPLETE RECALL AUDI HAS OPTED TO GIVE OWNERS THE RUN AROUND WHICH EVENTUALLY ENDS UP WITH THEM PAYING FOR EXPENSIVE HEADLIGHT REPAIRS WHICH DO NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. MAKE AUDI ISSUE A RECALL ON THESE HEADLIGHTS. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-08
- VIN: WAUGL78E26A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT FLICKERS AND FAILS. VEHICLE MUST BE SHUT OFF AND RESTARTED IN ORDER TO GET HEADLIGHT WORKING AGAIN. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-15
- VIN: WAUGL78E96A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: RIGHT HEADLIGHT FLICKERS AND GOES OUT REPEATEDLY. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-12
- VIN: WAUGL78E36A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THIS ISSUE AFFECTS AUDI A4 AND S4 VEHICLES WITH HID HEADLIGHTS. ONE OR BOTH OF THE HEADLIGHTS REPEATEDLY FAILS WHILE DRIVING. THIS IS NOT AN ISSUE WITH THE HEADLIGHT BULB. IF THE OPERATOR TURNS OFF THE IGNITION AFTER ONE OR BOTH OF THE HEADLIGHTS FAILS, AND THEN IMMEDIATELY RESTARTS THE CAR, BOTH HEADLIGHTS WILL OPERATE PROPERLY. THE ISSUE OCCURS PRIMARILY WITHIN THE FIRST 5 TO 10 MINUTES AFTER STARTING THE CAR. ONCE THE CAR HAS BEEN "WARMED UP", OPERATING FOR MORE THAN 10 MINUTES, THE ISSUE DOES NOT REOCCUR. THE SPECIFIC SCENARIO: I WILL START MY CAR. BOTH OF THE HEADLIGHTS INITIALLY SEEM TO BE OPERATING PROPERLY. WITHIN A MINUTE, ONE OR BOTH OF THE HEADLIGHTS WILL BEGIN TO FLICKER, AND ONE OR BOTH OF THEM WILL FAIL, CAUSING A "HEADLIGHT DIPPED" WARNING ON MY DASHBOARD. THE ISSUE OFTEN OCCURS DURING BRAKING, ACCELERATION OR WHEN THE CAR GOES OVER A BUMP. THE ISSUE MAY OCCUR WITH EITHER THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT OR BOTH LIGHTS, RESULTING IN A SEVERELY UNSAFE CONDITION. RESTARTING THE CAR WILL CURE THE PROBLEM BUT IT OFTEN REOCCURS UNTIL THE CAR HAS BEEN DRIVEN FOR AT LEAST 10 MINUTES. THIS ISSUE OCCURS ALMOST EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ON, USUALLY EVERY DAY, OR AT LEAST SEVERAL TIMES PER WEEK. MOISTURE (RAIN/CAR WASH) DOES NOT SEEM TO MAKE THE ISSUE WORSE. AUDI OF AMERICA IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND HAS ISSUED SEVERAL TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS ABOUT THE ISSUE, BUT WILL NOT PAY FOR REPAIRS UNLESS THE VEHICLE IS UNDER WARRANTY. AUDI HAS NOT IDENTIFIED A SPECIFIC REPAIR TECHNIQUE THAT WILL DEFINITELY FIX THE ISSUE. THE REPAIR ATTEMPTS INCLUDE REPLACING THE LIGHT BULBS, REPLACING THE HID BALLASTS AND/OR CONTROL MODULES, AND INSTALLING SHIMS AROUND THE LIGHT HOUSINGS TO QUELL THE VIBRATION THAT MAY BE A CAUSE OF THE ISSUE. IT IS A TRIAL-AND-ERROR REPAIR PROCESS AND IT IS VERY EXPENSIVE FOR A VEHICLE THAT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-15
- VIN: WAUUL78E56A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: HID XENON HEADLIGHTS RANDOMLY FLICKER AND SHUT OFF DURING DRIVING. IT'S GETTING WORSE. DEALERS "NEVER FOUND" PROBLEM WHICH RECURS CONTINUALLY SO THEY NEVER FIXED THIS ISSUE UNDER WARRANTY AFTER BEING ASKED SEVERAL TIMES SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NEW. 100'S OF OTHER STORIES ABOUT THIS ONLINE. HUGE SAFETY ISSUE WHEN HEADLIGHTS JUST QUIT AT RANDOM. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-24
- VIN: WAUGL78E46A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT FLICKERED AND WENT OFF (HID LIGHTS). THE INFORMATION SYSTEM REGISTERED AN ERROR "DIPPED RIGHT HEADLIGHT" HEAD LIGHT COMES ON WHEN EVER THE CAR IS STARTED, AND GOES OUT WITH THE SAME ERROR AGAIN AT A LATER TIME. SO FAR THIS ERROR HAS OCCURRED THE LAST 3 TIMES I HAVE DRIVEN (ALL THREE TIMES SINCE FIRST OCCURRENCE). THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE SINCE NIGHT ILLUMINATION IS INVOLVED. I HAVE READ ON INTERNET AUDI WEBSITES THAT THIS IS AN ALL TOO COMMON PROBLEM, THAT AUDI OF AMERICA IS NOT TAKING SERIOUSLY AS FAR AS OFFERING A CLEAR SOLUTION. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-14
- VIN: WAUGL78E66A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER, THEN THE DASH SAYS THEY ARE DIPPING, THEN THEY GO OUT. IF YOU STOP THE CAR TURN IT OFF THEN BACK ON THE LIGHTS COME BACK ON, ONLY TO DO IT AGAIN. THERE SEEMS TO BE WIDE SPREAD REPORTS OF THIS HAPPENING WITH THESE AUDI'S AND THE HID LIGHTS. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-23
- VIN: WAUGL78E66A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DIPPED HEADLIGHT ISSUE. THE EVENT IS HAPPENS ALMOST EVERY NIGHT AND MULTIPLE TIMES. MY HEADLIGHTS OF MY 2006 AUDI S4 CONTINUE TO GO OUT AS I DRIVE OFTEN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT WHICH AUDI HAS CHOSEN NOT TO FIX. THEIR MULTIPLE SERVICE BULLETINS NEVER FIXED THE ISSUE AND NOW THAT MY CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY THEY CHOSE TO REPLACE CARS HEADLIGHTS WITH THIS ISSUE. I ONLY HAVE UNDER 50,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A SERIOUS CONCERN AND ONE THAT COULD LEAD TO A ACCIDENT AND DEATH. THIS IS MY 9TH AUDI AS WELL. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-21
- VIN: WAUGL78E36A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY HEADLIGHTS FLICKER ALMOST ALL THE TIME AND OCCASIONALLY GO OFF AS A RESULT. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN WIDESPREAD AS LITERALLY HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE IN THE AUDI ONLINE FORUMS ARE REPORTING THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. ONCE ONE OR BOTH HEADLIGHTS GO OUT, I GET AN ERROR MESSAGE STATING "LEFT HEADLIGHT DIPPED", "RIGHT HEADLIGHT DIPPED", OR BOTH. ONCE THE CAR IS TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED, LIGHT COMES BACK ON. THEY STILL FLICKER AND GO OUT AGAIN AT RANDOM INTERVALS AND RANDOM SIDES (LEFT AND RIGHT). THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL IN PLACE AS IT COSTS MANY HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO REPAIR, AND MANY TIMES, THE REPAIR DOESN'T FIX ANYTHING. IT IS SO WIDESPREAD, IT HAS REACHED EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS AND IT HAS BECOME A REAL SAFETY HAZARD. THIS PROBLEM EFFECTS A WIDE RANGE OF AUDI MODELS AND YEARS AS REPORTED BY HUNDREDS OF OTHER PEOPLE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUES OF VARIOUS YEARS AND MODELS. IT IS ALSO GROUNDS FOR A TRAFFIC VIOLATION IN MY STATE AS WELL AS MOST OTHERS. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR NEEDS TO BE TURNED OFF, HEADLIGHTS TURNED OFF, THEN RESTARTED IN ORDER TO RESTART THE HEADLIGHT. THIS ACTION PRESENTS A MYRIAD OF SAFETY CONCERNS ITSELF AS THIS HAPPENS AT RANDOM TIMES DURING TRAFFIC. WITH THE REGULARITY OF THIS PROBLEM ACROSS MANY YEARS AND MODELS, AUDI SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE AND PERFORM THE REPAIRS AT THEIR EXPENSE AS THIS IS CLEARLY A DESIGN OR IMPLEMENTATION FLAW. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-29
- VIN: WUAGL78EX6A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: AUDI 2006 S4, THERE IS A MORE FREQUENT OCCURRENCE OF MY "HEADLIGHTS DIPPING" MY XENON HEADLAMPS WILL STOP WORKING WHILE DRIVING, IT WOULD EITHER BE THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT, BUT NOT UNTIL LAST WEEK WHEN BOTH WENT OUT AT THE SAME TIME. I WOULD PUT CAR IN NEUTRAL WHILE DRIVING AND TURN CAR OFF AND BACK ON AND IT WILL RESET ITSELF AND LIGHTS WILL THEN WORK, IT SEEMS TO STOP OCCURRING WHEN CAR IS WARMED UP AND IT IS WORSE WITH COLDER WEATHER AND VIBRATION OR BAD ROADS. IT WILL OCCASIONALLY OCCUR WHEN CAR IS EVEN WARM WELL AFTER 30 MINUTES, I AM NOW CONCERNED BECAUSE LAST WEEK BOTH WENT OUT AT THE SAME TIME, THAT HAD NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE, IT WAS ALWAYS ONE OR THE OTHER, IT HAS HAPPENED FOR THE PAST 18 MONTHS OR SO. AUDI HAS NO ANSWER, THEY HAVE ERRONEOUSLY REPLACED WORKING XENON LIGHTS, BALLASTS, ETC AND IT CONTINUES TO OCCUR TO MANY INDIVIDUALS THAT I READ UP ON IN AUDI FORUMS. FREQUENCY IS NOW EACH AND EVERY TIME I START CAR AND GET GOING LITERALLY FEET TO LESS THAN A BLOCK. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT WAS ONCE A COUPLE OF WEEKS, THEN ONCE A WEEK, TO ONCE EVERY COUPLE OF DAYS, TO NOW EACH AND EVERY TIME AT LEAST A COUPLE OF TIMES UNTIL WARM. I AM IN COLDER CLIMATE, DETROIT, MI. *LN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-19
- VIN: WAUGL78E46A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: JUST PURCHASED A FORMERLY CERTIFIED 2006 AUDI S4 W/ 46K MILES AND FACTORY XENON LIGHTS. WHEN I TURN MY HEADLIGHTS ON, THE RIGHT XENON LIGHT GOES OUT INTERMITTENTLY, AND I GET A "RIGHT DIPPED HEADLIGHT" MESSAGE ON THE INFORMATION DISPLAY. THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT STAYS OFF UNTIL I TURN THE CAR OFF. USUALLY WHEN I RESTART THE CAR, THE HEADLIGHT IS FINE. THE PROBLEM IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE THE LIGHT TURNS OFF WITHOUT WARNING, SO FAR IT HAS ONLY HAPPENED ON ONE SIDE, BUT I AM CONCERNED IT WILL AFFECT BOTH LIGHTS. DEALER STATES THEY HAVE ENCOUNTERED THE PROBLEM BEFORE, AND THAT REPLACING THE BALLAST WILL ADDRESS IT. *LN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-17
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: NO INCIDENTS OR CRASHES, YET. MY 2005.5 AUDI S4 WITH 35,800 MILES, HAS A CHRONIC PROBLEM WHERE THE HEADLIGHTS, LEFT OR RIGHT, FLICKER AND THEN TURN OFF INVOLUNTARILY. SOMETIMES ONLY ONE SIDE DOES THIS, MORE RECENTLY, BOTH HAVE BEEN TURNING OFF. WHEN THE LIGHT GOES OUT, A NOTICE APPEARS IN THE CENTER INFORMATION AREA OF "DIPPED HEADLIGHT," EITHER RIGHT OR LEFT RESPECTIVELY. THE ONLY WAY TO RESTART THE LIGHT/S IS TO TURN THE LIGHT SWITCH OFF AND BACK ON MANUALLY. THIS ONLY TEMPORARILY RESETS THE HEADLIGHTS, AND THE SAME EVENTS START AGAIN SHORTLY THEREAFTER. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-22
- VIN: WAUGL78E06A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: I OWN A 2006 AUDI S4 WITH BI=XENON HID LIGHTS. NUMEROUS AMOUNTS OF TIMES THE INDICATION COMES UP THAT I HAVE A DIPPED HEADLIGHT. THIS IN TURN IS BECAUSE THE HEADLIGHT IS OFF AND I'M DRIVING AT NIGHT. THIS SAFETY VIOLATION WILL END UP COSTING ME EVERY TIME I GO TO THE DEALERSHIP TO GET NEW PARTS INSTALLED AND LABOR AND THE HIGH PROBABILITY OF A TICKET FOR HAVING A HEAD LIGHT OUT FROM THE POLICE OR OTHER AGENCIES IN THE AREA. *TR
2006 Audi S4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2006 Audi S4.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2005-2008 Audi A4 Sedan, A4 Avant, S4 Avant and S4 Sedan, 2007-2008 RS4 Sedan, 2004 RS4 Cabriolet, 2007-2009 A4 Cabriolet and S4 Cabriolet, 2005-2011 A6 Sedan, 2006-2011 A6 Avant, and 2007-2011 S6 Sedan vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag with an alternate remedy part, free of charge. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69R7. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V382, 17V032 and 18V004 and includes vehicles that may have had their air bag previously replaced under one of those campaigns.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet, S4 Cabriolet, A6 Avant, A6 Sedan and S6 Sedan vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone B" above, Volkswagen is recalling certain 2005-2008 Audi A4 Avant, A4 Sedan, A6 Sedan, S4 Avant and S4 Sedan vehicles, 2007-2008 A4 Cabriolet, RS4 Sedan, S4 Cabriolet and S6 Sedan vehicles, and 2006-2008 A6 Avant and 2008 RS4 Cabriolet vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Note: This recall has been superseded by recall number 18V427.
Negative 2006 Audi S4 car reviews
Positive 2006 Audi S4 car reviews
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Even after 3.5 years and 44.5k miles, my recent purchase of a used 2005 S4 is such a fantastic drive! I absolutely love the look and performance of this car. The acceleration, braking, handling, and sound are all amazing. It's like driving a tiger in sedan's clothing! It's perfect for my business use, but also allows me to have a blast driving down the coastal highway 1 and setting the top pace for all the 'weekend sport cars'.
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I must say, I absolutely love this car! With 35K miles on it, it still runs as smoothly as the day I bought it. Although the RS4 wasn't available at the time of purchase, I still believe this car is one of the best in the world, especially considering its price point. Previously, I owned a BMW M3 and a Mazda RX8, but due to inclement weather, I had to sell them. While the BMW was impressive, it was not suitable for snowy conditions. The RX8 was a disappointment all around - slow, unreliable, and not fit for driving in snow. In contrast, the S4 is quick, handles great in snow, and is a perfect wolf in sheep's clothing. I highly recommend it!
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The S4 Cabrio is an exceptional car that I have had the pleasure of owning. It boasts luxury, style, performance, speed, and subtle class that is unmatched by any other convertible on the road. The V8 engine is incredibly smooth, and the 6-speed automatic transmission, while not as good as the DSG in my daughter's A3, is still wonderful in Sport mode. The interior and exterior are both beautifully crafted and stunning to look at, as is typical of Audi. I highly recommend this car as it is worth both your money and your time. It is more of an extremely fast luxury cruiser than a sports car, which is definitely a good thing.
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I recently swapped my 2001 Audi S4 with the owner of a 2005 S4. I am absolutely in love with my new nogaro blue car, which has a stunning two-tone blue/black recaro interior. Audi has done an excellent job with the overall look and feel of this car. The previous owner made some modifications, including lowering the vehicle and adding awe tuning exhaust and 19
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The S4 Cabriolet is easily the best car I've ever owned. Its exhaust sound is creamy smooth and much nicer than my outgoing A6 2.7T. The interior is perfect, with the only flaw being that the rear seat armrests are a little intruding. Otherwise, it's a very comfortable convertible. It's a much better value than a BMW M3 Convertible, which doesn't even have power seats standard, and a much much better value than the Mercedes-Benz CLK 55, which is $85,000. The S4, almost fully-loaded, is around $60,600. I love it more than any other car.
Additional sources
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Are you having problems with your 2006 Audi S4?
Ben Schulist 2024-07-28
I loved my Audi. It was flawless with only 20k miles. However, it caught fire on its own in the middle of the night due to an electrical fire originating under the driver's seat. The potential damage to my house was significant, but fortunately, the windows were closed. This incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks to prevent such occurrences.
Jaylan Barton 2024-01-24
This car was so much fun to drive and I loved it! However, now that it has 75k miles on it, I would be happy to get rid of it and never buy Audi again. Since I first bought it, there have been numerous problems that have added up to be quite outrageous! The original top failed during a rainstorm, causing the car to flood. I spent $9k replacing the control panel and rewiring the car. Unfortunately, the new top hasn't worked for a year and Audi USA is now involved, but still no satisfactory resolution. The starter broke and the car fan wouldn't shut off, draining the battery until I needed a tow to get it repaired. There have been so many other issues!