2013 Audi S7 problems
The Audi A7 is an executive five-door liftback coupé produced by Audi since 2010. A luxury car, it features a sloping roofline with a steeply raked rear window and integrated boot lid (forming the Sportback), and four frameless doors. It is also available as a three-box, four-door saloon in China since 2021.
Audi Sportback concept (2009)
The Audi Sportback concept is a concept vehicle powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TDI clean diesel engine rated at 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp) and 550 N⋅m (406 lbf⋅ft) of torque. It features a 7-speed S tronic transmission, quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, five-link front suspension, continuous damping control shock absorbers, electromechanical steering, ceramic brake discs (380 mm front and 356 mm rear), front 6-piston monobloc aluminium brake calipers, rear floating-caliper brakes and 21-inch wheels. A preview of the facelifted 2015 A7 Sportback, the vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
First generation (Type 4G8; 2010)
Initial release
The A7 is in essence a four-door fastback version of the C7-series Audi A6, based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform. The A7 was released before the more conventional A6 saloon/estate. Both cars share the same core structure, drivetrain, chassis, dashboard and interior, whilst the A7 has its own unique exterior panelwork. It also differs from the A6 in that it uses aluminium for much of its front body structure. The A7 was also the first fastback to appear within the Audi C-platform series since the Avant version of the C2 Audi 100, which was discontinued in 1982. The vehicle was unveiled in Pinakothek der Moderne art museum in Munich on 26 July 2010, and later at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, 2011 New York Auto Show, and Wörthersee Tour 2011 (in Misano Red).
The vehicles went on sale in autumn 2010. Early models include 2.8 FSI (204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp)) with multitronic, 3.0 TFSI quattro (300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp)) with seven-speed S tronic, 3.0 TDI quattro (245 PS (180 kW; 242 hp)) with seven-speed S tronic; followed by 3.0 TDI (204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp)) with multitronic.
The 2011 model year A7 introduces FlexRay high speed databus that controls all the driver assistance systems from the A8, but it adds head-up display and active lane assist. Full LED headlamps with Automatic high beam switching or Audi adaptive light (Xenon) with variable headlight range control. US models went on sale 2012 model year vehicles. Early models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (310 PS (228 kW; 306 hp)) with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
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Common 2013 Audi S7 problems
Common problems with the 2013 Audi S7 include engine issues, transmission problems, and turbocharger failures.
Engine problems are a significant concern for 2013 Audi S7 owners. The vehicle's turbocharger has received the brunt of the complaints, with several owners reporting that the vehicle lost motive power while driving due to turbocharger failure.
Transmission problems are also a concern for 2013 Audi S7 owners. Some owners have reported experiencing slipping transmission and rough shifting, which can be caused by low transmission fluid levels or a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor and control module.
Turbocharger failures are another common issue for 2013 Audi S7 owners. Several owners have reported that both stock 2013 S7 turbos were damaged at low mileage due to a faulty blocked screen, leading to a loss of motive power while driving and the need for replacement.
While the 2013 Audi S7 is a high-performance luxury car with advanced features, it may experience certain issues over time. By staying aware of these common issues and taking steps to address them, owners can help ensure that their S7 remains reliable and continues to provide a smooth driving experience. It's important to consult with a qualified mechanic if any issues are suspected.
Is the 2013 Audi S7 reliable?
This potential lack of long-term reliability makes the 2013 Audi S7 a model year to avoid. CarComplaints.com says the 2013 Audi S7 is the worst model year of the performance car. Although it received a relatively low number of complaints (likely because it's not very popular), the nature of its issues is quite severe.
Is Audi RS7 reliable?
Audi RS7 Common Problems
It seems that overall Audi has made a reliable machine when it comes to the RS7, with the most common problems regarding the vehicle being related to user error and treating the vehicle poorly by not maintaining it correctly.
Is Audi S7 twin-turbo?
The Audi S7 exemplifies true beauty coupled with power that pushes the limits—featuring a twin-turbo V6 engine with 444 HP.
How much horsepower does a 2013 Audi S7 twin-turbo have?
420 horsepower
Displacing just 4.0 liters, the S7's twin-turbo V-8 makes 420 horsepower and 406 pounds-feet of torque, enough to hit 60 mph in less than 4.9 seconds.
Is the 2013 Audi S7 reliable?
This potential lack of long-term reliability makes the 2013 Audi S7 a model year to avoid. CarComplaints.com says the 2013 Audi S7 is the worst model year of the performance car. Although it received a relatively low number of complaints (likely because it's not very popular), the nature of its issues is quite severe.
What is the best year of the Audi A7?
The Best Model Years to Buy an Audi A7
The 2017 and 2016 model years are also attractive years for the A7, and provide a relatively good value. Our rankings consider multiple factors, including the A7's price as new, current price, maintenance costs and remaining years of overall predictabe expenses.
How fast is the 2013 Audi S7?
Our first test of the buttwarming Audi brought home heartwarming performance results: zero to 60 in 4.3 seconds, a governor-limited 152-mph top speed, and 0.88-g cornering grip.
How long is Audi S7 2013?
Sportback 4.0 TFSI LE, 4.0L, Premium Unleaded Petrol, 7 SPEED AUTO DIRECT SHIFT
| Dimension | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Audi S7 Width | 1911 mm | 6 ft 3 in |
| Audi S7 Length | 4980 mm | 16 ft 4 in |
| Audi S7 Ground clearance unladen | 121 mm | 5 in |
| Audi S7 Wheelbase | 2914 mm | 9 ft 7 in |
2013 Audi S7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S7 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Audi S7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2013 Audi S7 complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Audi S7.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
- VIN: WAUW2AFC6DN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Audi S7. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the turbocharger; however, the failure recurred with the engine seizing. The vehicle was towed to another independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V178000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-04
- VIN: WAU32AFCXDN
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: J197 module is always falling the car is 26,000 and the suspension goes bad need readapt few times They need to check that module
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- VIN: WAU32AFC3DN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Audi S7. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to be serviced for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V178000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) where the turbochargers needed to be replaced from wear and tear from the consequences mentioned in the recall. The dealer diagnosed that the turbocharger itself needed to be replaced, however, it was not covered under the recall. The turbochargers had not been replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,970.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- VIN: WAUW2AFC2DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Both stock 2013 S7 turbos were blown/damaged at 38k miles due to being starved of oil lubrication from a faulty blocked screen. This is a known issue and has occurred in many Audi S7 and S6 vehicles with the 4.0 twin turbo engine. Audi has upgraded and changed the oil screen design and location in these models due to this problem, however Audi owners suffering this known issue have to pay for repairs on their own dime if the car is past warranty. Repairs were $13k.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-23
- VIN: Wauw2bfc5dn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Due to this oil sceen being clogged, the turbos were starved for oil and subsequently failed. There was no warning for this and oil was changed regularly per the service manual. I was stranded 80 miles from home. The car began running poorly and then would not run at all. There is a service bulletin on the problem but Audi of America has not yet done anything about my repairs.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-27
- VIN: wau32afc8dn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While traveling home on the interstate from the airport, my vehicle suddenly started to run very rough and the engine felt like it was going to stall at low idle. I had decreased acceleration capability. No warning lamps illuminated, but it was obvious something was wrong. I limped the car to my local Audi dealership and left it there for an inspection the following morning. I was contacted by a service advisor the next day, who told me one of my turbochargers failed (specifically, he stated the impeller fin had too much play and was rubbing against the walls of the housing) and the other turbocharger would likely fail soon as well. I was shown a video by the technician confirming this was the issue. The service advisor told me there was a technical service bulletin produced by Audi referencing this issue, TSB 2044640/2. That bulletin states "Damage to the turbocharger is rarely directly the result of turbocharger failure." Known causes listed include performance increases by tuned ECM, non-compliance with service intervals, incorrectly fitted oil filter element, poor oil supply of turbocharger, and leaks in intake tract. The vehicle has been serviced regularly and meticulously by the same Audi dealership form which it was originally purchased since it was brand new. It has not had any performance modifications. I feel the factory oil strainer from Audi is deficient and led to the premature failure of the turbocharger and my unsafe experience on the highway. The service advisor stated the turbocharger should have lasted much longer and could not explain why it failed. The replacement cost is approximately $12,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-30
- VIN: WAUW2AFC8DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: INITIALLY I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE (I-95) AND COULD FEEL THE CAR RUNNING ROUGH OR MISSING. AFTER I EXITED THE INTERSTATE AND MERGED ONTO THE HIGHWAY (SR405) THE CAR STALLED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. WOULDN'T START AT FIRST AND AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS IT FINALLY STARTED BUT WAS RUNNING REALLY ROUGH. LUCKILY I WAS ONLY A MILE FROM THE HOUSE AND WAS ABLE TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY AND LIMP HOME ON SOME BACK ROADS. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO AUDI THE NEXT DAY AND THEY DIAGNOSED THE ISSUE TO BE A FAILURE OF THE TURBOS. REPAIR TOOK 21 DAYS AND THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE TURBOS AND THE OIL SCREENS.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-05
- VIN: WAU32AFC1DN
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I HEARD A POP SOUND WHEN ACCELERATING AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND I LOSS A LOT OF POWER. I CALLED THE AUDI DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME TO DRIVE IT IN. I LEFT IT WITH THEN AND THEY TOLD ME THEY COULDN'T REPLICATE THE ISSUE AFTER A COUPLE OF WEEKS. I WENT TO PICK IT UP AND THE PROBLEM STILL EXISTED. I WENT BACK AND GRABBED A SERVICE TECH AND WE DROVE IT AROUND THE BLOCK TOGETHER. HE ASKED THAT I ACCELERATE AT WHICH POINT WHITE SMOKE STARTED POURING OUT OF THE BACK. WE DROVE IT BACK. THEY DIAGNOSED IT LATER AS BEING A BLOWN TURBO. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A DIFFERENT SHOP TO REPLACE THE TURBOS AND THEY SAID THE ENGINE WAS DESTROYED AND ALL CYLINDERS WERE MARKED. I TOWED IT BACK TO AUDI AND THEY TOLD ME THAT BECAUSE IT HAD AFTERMARKET PARTS THEY WEREN'T RESPONSIBLE. THEY AGREED TO FLUSH THE OIL SEVERAL TIMES AND SELL IT AT AUCTION AS IS WHICH COST ME TO LOSE NEARLY $30,000. THEY WERE LIABLE FOR THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY HAD THE CAR BEFORE THE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. THEY MISS-DIAGNOSED WHAT WE ALL KNOW NOW WAS A FAILURE OF THE PCV VALVE AND A CLOGGED OIL SCREEN. IT WAS ON A DRIVE WITH THEM AFTER NOT DIAGNOSING IT THAT THE TURBOS HAD A CRITICAL FAILURE AND TOOK OUT THE ENGINE. THIS WOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN AN ISSUE HAD THEY PROPERLY DIAGNOSED THE FAILED PCV AND OIL SCREEN PROBLEM. THEY PRESSURED ME INTO SETTLING WITH THEIR PROPOSAL OR ELSE THEY THREATENED TO RETURN THE CAR TO ME AND DO NOTHING.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-31
- VIN: WAUW2AFC9DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE TURBOS BLEW AT 71074 MILES, RENDERING THE VEHICLE INOPERABLE NEARLY 500 MILES FROM HOME.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-28
- VIN: WAUW2AFC0DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I EXITED THE HIGHWAY, MERGED ONTO A 4 LANE HIGHWAY, AND MOVED TO THE CENTER LANE TO TURN LEFT. THE ENGINE SHUT OFF AND WHEN RESTARTING WOULD SHUT OFF AGAIN AFTER A COUPLE OF SECONDS. THIS MADE IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN LEFT OFF THE HIGHWAY. THERE WERE MULTIPLE VEHICLES APPROACHING AT 50 MPH. AFTER HAVING THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER I WAS INFORMED THAT THE TURBOS FAILED AT 69,000 MILES. I CHECKED ONLINE AND FOUND MANY PEOPLE WITH THE SAME 4.0 TWIN TURBO ENGINE HAD THIS FAILURE. MY OPINION IS THIS FAILURE IS PREMATURE, DANGEROUS, AND SHOULD BE RECALLED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-27
- VIN: WAU32AFC1DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WITH 68033 MILES ON MY AUDI S7 THE TURBOS FAILED AND REQUIRED TO BE REPLACED. THE FIRST INDICATION OF THE PROBLEM WAS WHEN THE ENGINE SHUTDOWN IN TRAFFIC AND I HAD A HARD TIME STARTING IT WHILE STOPPED IN A BUSY CITY TRAFFIC LANE. IT TOOK 3 ATTEMPTS TO GET THE ENGINE STARTED BUT IT IDLED VERY ROUGHLY ALMOST QUIT RUNNING AGAIN. I WAS ABLE TO LIMP THE CAR HOME, BUT WAS NOT SURE OF THE ENGINE WOULD QUIT AGAIN IF I LET IT IDLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-08
- VIN: WAU32AFC1DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TURBOS FAILED AT APPROXIMATELY 82,000 MILES DUE TO A CLOGGED OIL FEED SCREEN. TURBOS WERE STARVED OF OIL CAUSING ONE COMPRESSOR SHAFT TO BREAK IN HALF AND THE OTHER TO HAVE EXCESSIVE SHAFT PLAY. THIS CAUSED A NO-RUN ISSUE AND RESULTED IN BOTH TURBOS HAVING TO BE REPLACED ALONG WITH THE OIL SCREEN. THE VEHICLE BEGAN RUNNING POORLY AT HIGHWAY SPEED AND WHEN IT CAME TO A STOP, STALLED AT A BUSY FREEWAY INTERCHANGE. AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS, THE CAR WAS ABLE TO START AND LIMP OFF THE ROAD WHERE IT WAS TOWED FROM AND DIAGNOSED AT A MECHANIC
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-11
- VIN: WAU32AFC3DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: BLOWN TURBOS RESULTED IN CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. I HAD TO PAY LABOR OF $10,500 AND WARRANTY PAID FOR NEW ENGINE. HAPPENED AT APPROXIMATELY 72,000 MILES. VEHICLE IN GEAR WITH FOOT ON BRAKE AT A FAST FOOD DRIVE THROUGH.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-20
- VIN: WAU32AFC2DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: BOUGHT MY CAR WITH 77,000 MILES ON IT AND WHEN I REACHED 81,000 MILES MY TURBO CHARGER FAILED. THIS SEEMS TO BE COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS YEAR VEHICLE, SO COMMON IN FACT, THAT THERE'S BELIEF THERE MAY BE A DESIGN FLAW IN THE CAR. BELOW IS A DESCRIPTION OF THE ISSUE. WHILE GOING COMING BACK FROM THE GROCERY STORE (DRIVING NORMALLY ON A SATURDAY) I NOTICED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED. THE CAR CONTINUED TO DRIVE OK SO I WENT AHEAD AND DROVE HOME AND PARKED IT. THE FOLLOWING MONDAY I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, HOWEVER WHILE ON THE WAY TO THE DEALERSHIP, I STARTED HEARING A SPORADIC KNOCKING NOISE WHENEVER I STEPPED ON THE ACCELERATOR, AS WELL AND ENGINE HESITATION. AFTER ARRIVING AT THE DEALERSHIP I REQUESTED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BUT CHECKED AND ALSO THE NEW NOISE I WAS HEARING THAT MORNING. I GOT A CALL BACK FROM THE DEALER THAT THE DRIVER SIDE TURBO FAN WAS KNOCKING AGAINST THE INNER HOUSING CAUSING THE NOISE. I WAS TOLD THAT THE TURBO WAS GOING BAD AND NEEDED REPLACING.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-18
- VIN: WAUW2BFC0DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: FAILURE OF BOTH TURBOS WHILE DRIVING THROUGH A RURAL SECTION OF TOWN. VERY ROUGH IDLE AND SUBSEQUENT STALL OF ENGINE WHILE IN TRAFFIC. UNABLE TO RE-START OR DRIVE WITHOUT KEEPING THE GAS PEDAL DEPRESSED MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO REGULATE SPEED AND NEGOTIATE TRAFFIC. LATER FOUND OUT THE TURBO FAILURE IS DUE TO DEFECTIVE OIL FEED DESIGN FROM THE MANUFACTURER.
2013 Audi S7 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2013 Audi S7.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2013-2017 A8, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, and 2014-2017 RS7 vehicles. The turbocharger oil supply strainer can become blocked, causing wear to the bearings due to lack of lubrication.
- Consequence: Worn bearings can cause the turbine wheel to contact the turbocharger housing or cause the shaft to break, causing an engine stall and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil strainer and perform an oil change, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 4, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 21H7.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S6 and S7, 2012-2018 A7 and A6 Sedan, and 2014-2018 RS7 vehicles equipped with basic seats (with or without heating). Stress or wear of the body-sensing mat within the front passenger seat may cause the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) control module to malfunction.
- Consequence: If the PODS module malfunctions, the front passenger air bag may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 74D5.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Audi S6 and S7 vehicles equipped with 4.0L engines. Due to manufacturing tolerance issues, a fuel line may leak fuel.
- Consequence: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel line, free of charge. The safety recall is planned to begin in late October 2013. Owners may contact Audi of America at 1-800-822-2834. Volkswagen's number for this campaign is 20U6/L8.
Positive 2013 Audi S7 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Audi S7 problems:
S7 Known Issues / Problems? - Forum
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Things to look out for in used Audi A7? - AudiWorld Forums
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Mar 27, 2019 ... Hi All, I'm looking to purchase a used Audi A7 3.0 TDI S Line Sportback S Tronic Quattro - it's 2012 with 136000 on the clock.
2013 S7 Reliability and Known Issues : r/Audi
Apr 15, 2019 ... 2013 S7 Reliability and Known Issues. I was just curious on what are the known issues with the S7's or if you have a comparable suggestion. If ...
Other years of Audi S7
Are you having problems with your 2013 Audi S7?
Erin Carter 2024-03-26
I've been driving my S7 for two weeks now and it's been an amazing experience. I recently switched from my Porsche 911 as I wanted a more refined driving experience. The S7 is incredibly powerful, yet quiet and nimble, making it a joy to drive. The combination of driving performance, technology, and comfort is truly astonishing and I couldn't be happier with my choice. I've noticed that I get more compliments and stares on my S7 than I ever did on my 911, which is something I really appreciate as a car enthusiast. When people tell me they love my car, I always respond with a smile and say, 'Thank you, I love it too!'.