Audi S8 problems
The Audi S8 is a full-size luxury car of the Audi S models produced by the German automaker Audi AG, manufactured by Audi Sport GmbH at the Neckarsulm plant. The S8 is the mechanically-upgraded, high-performance version of the Audi A8, fitted standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, and was only offered with a short-wheelbase for the first three generations, being joined by a long-wheelbase variant option for the fourth generation.
(D2) First generation
Audi S8 (D2) was produced from 1996 to 2003. The car featured a 4.2 liter V8 with 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp). The D2 S8 could accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.2 seconds. It has a curb weight of 1,730 kg (3,814 lb). In 1999, the car was updated with a power increase to 369 PS (271 kW; 364 hp), which brought the 0–60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration down to 5.6 seconds. Top speed was electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h). It has a curb weight of 1,845 kg (4,068 lb). An Audi S8 (D2) was chosen as the car of the protagonists of the film Ronin.
(D3) Second generation
Audi S8 (D3) was released from 2006 to 2010. The car was equipped with a modified V10 engine shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo of the same years. It produces 450 PS (331 kW; 444 hp), detuned by 50 PS (37 kW; 49 hp) from the Gallardo's power output of 500 PS (368 kW; 493 hp) with the purpose of increasing its fuel efficiency. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h). Acceleration from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) takes 5.1 seconds. It has a curb weight of 1,940 kg (4,277 lb).
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Audi S8 model years
Common Audi S8 problems
Audi S8 owners have reported several common problems with their vehicles, particularly with the 2014 model year. The most significant issue seems to be a blown turbo, which is the most-reported problem for the 2014 Audi S8. Although the specific average cost to fix this problem is not mentioned, it is likely to be expensive due to the complexity of the turbo system.
Another issue reported by Audi S8 owners is clogging in water drains and oil systems. This problem can lead to water accumulation in door jams and starved turbochargers in the V8 from lack of oil. This issue has been observed in various S8 models, not just the 2014 model year.
Additionally, Audi, as a brand, is known for electronic issues across its model range, including SUVs, sports coupes, and sedans. This is a brand-wide issue, similar to sticky buttons in Ferrari's.
Audi S8 owners have also reported issues with the transmission output shaft seals leaking oil, which is another problem that can lead to expensive repairs. This issue has been reported in Austin, where the Audi S8 is a popular choice for black car services.
Lastly, the Audi S8 is known for its high-tech features, including sonar, radar, lasers, cameras, and 24 sensors. While these features are designed to enhance the driving experience, they can also lead to repair issues that require immediate attention. Audi S8 repairs that are most likely to be a problem in Austin include clogged drains, transmission output shaft seals leaking oil, carbon buildup in the engine, thermostat failure, faulty torque converters, and recalls for fuel line supply leaks.
In summary, the Audi S8 is a high-tech and luxurious vehicle that can experience various repair issues, particularly with the turbo system, electronic components, and high-tech features. Owners of this vehicle should be prepared for potential repair costs and seek professional help when needed.
Is the Audi S8 reliable?
This is also a great car if you are looking for something to explore your luxurious side. This is the superior sedan to even the RS7 and the RS5 in terms of dollar to value, whilst also being very reliable overall as a daily driver.
How many miles do Audi S8 last?
According to carparts.com, the Audi A8 will last 200,000 miles, or around 20 years, without severe repairs.
What is the best year used Audi S8?
The Best Model Years to Buy an Audi S8
With the 2018, you would only pay, on average, 62% of the price as new, with 67% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2022 and 2015 model years are also attractive years for the S8, and provide a relatively good value.
What is the best year for Audi A8?
A: If you're looking for the most dependable Audi A8 model years, consider the 2000, 2001, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 versions. These years have fewer customer complaints and offer the best value to owners.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi S8 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi S8 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi S8 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi S8 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi S8 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi S8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi S8 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Visibility problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi S8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by S8 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 41 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi S8 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi S8 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi S8 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- VIN: WAUK2AFD8FN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Water Pump and thermostat has a faulty design that causes coolant to leak either around the O Ring and/or the elbow. I am in my third water pump and thermostat with only 69,000 miles on the vehicle. Issue appears to be common on the EA824 (4.0 twin turbo) engine with hundreds of reports from the complete range of EA824 equipped vehicles (S8, RS7, S6, S7, A8 etc). Average mileage of those reported are 65k miles or so. Hundreds of similar issues are reported via various Audi forums and social media groups. Poses a fire risk since coolant leaks all over the front of the engine. Poses another safety risk if the engine seizes due to overheating while in motion. Either would be catastrophic
Audi S8 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-18
- VIN: WAUD2AFD6EN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Audi S8. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the low oil warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. Upon visual inspection of the engine compartment, the contact observed that the engine oil level was abnormally low, prompting him to add oil to the engine. However, afterwards the contact stated that the low oil warning light illuminated again, after which there was a burning odor inside the vehicle, and the vehicle lost significant motive power. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,000.
Audi S8 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-23
- VIN: WAUPN94E79N
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER,VISIBILITY
- Summary: While driving on the highway my sunroof glass detached from the frame and flipped over to the back. It was still being held by about 5in of glue on the rear part of the frame and luckily it didn't depart the car which would have caused damage to cars behind me. This issue seems the same as NHTSA Recall No. / MFR Recall No. : 16V-415 / 60C3, however my VIN is not part of it. I'm reporting this because there might be other cars out there affected by this recall, which is a road hazard to other people and vehicles that are traveling behind this car.
Audi S8 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-10
- VIN: WAUK2AFD2FN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi S8. The contact stated he was unable to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the Electronic Power Control (EPC) warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to start the vehicle, but the vehicle was shaking while driving. The contact also stated the vehicle had stalled. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the oxygen sensor and oil pressure switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the failure. The contact took the vehicle back to an independent mechanic and was referred to a local dealer. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V178000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.
Audi S8 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-13
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-17
- VIN: WAUD2AFD5EN
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: During our recent rains i discovered water dripping on me from the center overhead console at the top of the windshield. This totally distracted me while driving as I was shocked by it's sudden occurrence. The next day, I suspected sunroof drains and proceeded to chase a flexible line thru them in the front drains and tested with water, it drained fine and no evidence of dripping inside. Went out driving in the rain and discovered the leaking occurring again along the top of headliner/windshield junction at the passenger pillar and again in the center overhead console. Once again distracted to catch the leaks. A Safety concern! I heard wind-noise which changed in tone as I pressed against the windshield. I'm assessing the windshield has lost its bond to the weatherstrip components. I'm shocked to find this in a $127K luxury car and it's hard to not be distracted during inclement weather.
Audi S8 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-31
- VIN: WAU8SAF85MN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: When started up on 11/17/22, multiple warning lights came on in rapid sequence advising of an electrical system & battery malfunction. Warning was to not drive the vehicle and contact service. I shut off the vehicle and re-started it. The same warnings were displayed. I was about 0.8 mile from the dealer so I attempted to drive it to their location. On the way, the warnings continued to show. After about 0.6 miles, the transmission fully disengaged from the engine. I coasted to the side of the street, shut off the vehicle, re-started it (same warnings showed) but the transmission was reset and worked. I drove to the dealership where my Audi mechanic knew exactly what the issue is--there is a huge problem with a Continental-supplied 48V belt starter/generator that needs to be replaced. However, none are available and won't be available until sometime in Q1 2023 or later. The replacement part is backordered with every Audi dealership experiencing this issue with multiple models in the MY's of 2018 through 2023. Had this issue occurred on an Interstate highway (complete loss of transmission), I could have been rear-ended by a vehicle following me. In a multi-lane situation, coasting to the either side of the highway may not have been possible....again, creating a very hazardous situation for me and other vehicles. I tried to attach the Audi Technical Service Bulletin showing the extent of the issue within Audi's model range and model years but it would not upload to your site. The TSB is 27 22 45 2058831/5 September 27, 2022. This is issue is leaving thousands of Audi vehicles unsafe and un-driveable. I urge you to act immediately to force Audi to recall these vehicles.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-04
- VIN: Waud2afd0dn
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The windshield top gasket is not working and the glass can be easily pushed out an 1/8”. Wind can be heard while driving and when it’s raining water runs through steady stream. I was under the impression that the windshield is an integral part of the cars structure.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-09
- VIN: WAUD2AFD1DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The dealer doesn’t want to perform the recall due to branded title. They should though. Please look into it
Audi S8 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-18
- VIN: Wauk2afdxfn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Turbo failure and positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) failure. Whining noise from PCV and smoke out the tail pipes with no power. Had to pay out of pocket to remedy issues.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-08
- VIN: Waud2afd5dn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine turbocharger experience catastrophic damage, engine stalled, power steering was disrupted.
Audi S8 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-12
- VIN: waupn94ex8n
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Audi S8. The vehicle had previously been serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V415000 (Visibility). The contact stated that while driving at 85 MPH, the sunroof glass detached from the sunroof frame. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was awaiting a callback. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000. Vehicle has been repaired.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-03
- VIN: Waud2afd7dn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car was running rough for a couple weeks; hesitant to accelerate, failed to start multiple times and idled rough. One day I was coming home from my hour long commute, I put the car in reverse in my driveway and the car started bucking so badly that it became un-drivable. At this point we had to get the car towed on a flatbed an hour away to the nearest dealership and this is when we discovered that the turbos had gone bad. There was no check engine light or any indication before it just failed. I am active duty in the United States Coast Guard and being without a car is not an option. Because of the shipping delay and waiting for the turbos to come from Germany, I was without my car for two weeks. I was loaned a vehicle but I had to rent a car for one day in between. We have been told by Audi dealerships for years that this was a known problem and to expect this $10,000 repair.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-10
- VIN: WAUD2AFD1DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE MAIN HIGHWAY, MY CAR ENGINE SHUT OFF. I HAD DYSFUNCTIONAL BRAKE AND STEERING FAILURE. BRAKE WAS HARDLY WORKING AND I HAD TO USE ALL MY STRENGTH TO CONTROL STEERING. BASICALLY, WHILE DRIVING AT 50MPH, CAR ENGINE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING AND I LOST STEERING AND BRAKING. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD INTO A VACANT PARKING LOT AND CAR CAME TO A STOP. FORTUNATELY, NO CARS WERE AROUND AT THE TIME. OTHERWISE, I ALONG WITH MY FAMILY WOULD HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN A POTENTIALLY FATAL ACCIDENT. MY CAR HAD BEEN SERVICED BY AUDI SINCE PURCHASE. IT WAS JUST SERVICED WITHIN THE PAST MONTH. CAR WAS TOWED TO AN AUDI DEALER--THE TURBO CHARGER HAD FAILED. BASED ON THE DEALER DESCRIPTION, FAILER OF TURBO CAUSED THE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF BOTH THE STEERING AND THE BRAKES. THERE SHOULD BE A BACKUP SAFETY MECHANISM IN CASE OF TURBO FAILURE WITH AUDI 4L ENGINE--APPARENTLY, THIS DOES NOT SEEM TO EXIST. I CONTACTED AUDI AND THEY HAD NO EXPLANATION. IT WAS JUST BY GOD'S GRACE THAT HORRIBLE ACCIDENT DID NOT OCCUR. I HOPE YOU CAN PROVIDE SOME INSIGHT INTO THIS. BASED ON SOME BLOGS, THIS IS APPARENTLY COMMON WITH 4L TURBO ENGINES WITH AUDI.
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-06
- VIN: WAUD2AFD2DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TURBOS FAILED, CAR STALLED AND WILL NOT START UNLESS GIVING IT GAS. DOWN ON POWER AND PERFORMANCE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON
Audi S8 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-04
- VIN: WAUD2AFD8DN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: sUN ROOF EXPLODED ON MT AUDIS8 2013. 6/03/2021.
Latest 5 recalls Audi S8
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 26 recalls for different components of the Audi S8.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi S8 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
- Model: Audi S8 2013
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-23
- 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.
- Model: Audi S8 2015
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-23
- 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.
- Model: Audi S8 2016
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-23
- 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.
- Model: Audi S8 2014
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-23
- 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.
Latest negative Audi S8 car reviews
Latest positive Audi S8 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you were looking for a car that can handle the snow and still perform well, and I think I've found just the thing for you! This car fits the bill perfectly.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Like other owners, I also had to make a decision on which car to choose. For me, the S8 stood out because of its uniqueness, performance, comfort, and subtlety. However, what surprised me the most was how great it handles, drives, and performs. The modern electronics such as iPod, satellite, and telephone integration, as well as the systems and suspension control, were impressive. Not only is it comfortable, but it's also fun to drive, and it keeps getting better. The power band is perfectly tweaked for a luxury sedan, with great performance as an automatic and amazing performance as a manual/tiptronic.
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Vehicle year: 2016
What a fantastic car! The Audi lineup is known for its reliability, and this one is no exception. Whether you choose to tune it or not, you can be confident that it will serve you well for years to come. You should feel proud to own such a special vehicle. Thank you for sharing your experience!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I think that Audi may have created the perfect luxury car. After driving it for 3k miles, I am convinced that they have. The car is perfectly silent when you want it to be, and if you want to be sporty, just one or two downshifts and a tap of the right foot will make you feel like you are in the right car. The electronics are well thought out, and the handling is stunning. The throttle is not too sensitive, and any issues have been resolved. As for the looks, it is subjective, but it makes a very discrete statement. I am extremely happy with my S8, and I don't miss my 997 at all.
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Vehicle year: 2007
Drive this car on Highway 1 from Carmel to San Simeon and you'll be hooked for life! It's better by far than my SL 500. The handling, acceleration, and paddles are pure fun - truly wow!
Are you having problems with your Audi S8?
Osvaldo Beatty 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2016
The car is certainly amazing when it's working, but unfortunately repairs can be quite expensive and parts tend to deteriorate faster than other cars. It's worth noting that some repairs, such as bushings at 40k and leaks, may not be covered by the warranty.
Ernesto Windler 2024-10-19
Vehicle year: 2008
I understand your frustration with your S8. It sounds like it hasn't lived up to your expectations in terms of handling and electronics. It's unfortunate that you weren't able to return it, especially since S8s are special order. I hope you're able to find a solution that works for you.
Bertram Klocko 2024-10-04
Vehicle year: 2009
I understand your frustration with your S8. It sounds like it hasn't lived up to your expectations in terms of handling and electronics. It's unfortunate that you weren't able to return it, especially since S8s are special order. I hope you're able to find a solution that works for you.
Adelbert Goldner 2024-09-27
Vehicle year: 2015
The car is certainly amazing when it's working, but unfortunately repairs can be quite expensive and parts tend to deteriorate faster than other cars. It's worth noting that some repairs, such as bushings at 40k and leaks, may not be covered by the warranty.
Darrion Jenkins 2024-06-21
Vehicle year: 2014
The car is certainly amazing when it's working, but unfortunately repairs can be quite expensive and parts tend to deteriorate faster than other cars. It's worth noting that some repairs, such as bushings at 40k and leaks, may not be covered by the warranty.