2007 Audi S8 problems

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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).

2007 Audi S8

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Common 2007 Audi S8 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2007 Audi S8, several common problems have been highlighted:

  1. Control Arm Bushings: Control arm bushings are a common issue in the 2007 Audi S8. Owners have reported problems with these bushings going bad, which can affect the car's suspension. While this may not break the bank for DIY enthusiasts, it could be a significant expense if taken to a dealership for repair.
  2. Air Suspension: The air suspension system in the Audi S8, particularly around 100,000 miles, can start experiencing problems such as leaks in the air valves or airbags. Repairing or replacing components of the air suspension system, like the air struts, can be costly, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on whether the owner opts for self-repair or professional services.
  3. General Care and Maintenance: Ensuring the overall good care and maintenance of the Audi S8 is crucial. Owners need to inspect the car thoroughly for signs of proper upkeep, cleanliness, and functionality of various components, especially the numerous electric motors that power different features. Neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, like a $1,200 cost for fixing just the mirror motor at a dealership.

These issues highlight the importance of regular maintenance and thorough inspection when considering the purchase of a 2007 Audi S8 to avoid potential costly repairs and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

2007 Audi S8 engine

Is an Audi S8 reliable?

The AUDIs are very reliable cars if you get a good mechanic who knows AUDIs and service them regularly. Maintenance costs are not unusually high, well brakes and tires can be, I do drive my cars out toward the edge. Also, select a high quality motor oil, something by Motul, Torco or Redline.

How many miles do Audi S8 last?

200,000 miles

Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained. It's why it isn't uncommon to see a 90s Audi on the road today.

Does the 2007 Audi S8 V-10 have a timing belt or chain?

Also, the newer S8 uses a timing chain and not a belt. Maybe it's more reliable, but if it breaks the whole engine has to come out of the car.

Does a 2007 Audi S8 have a Lamborghini engine?

Looks like the 2nd gen S8 used the same V10 that was used in the Gallardo, but the current generation S8/RS8 has a V8, so definitely not the same engine as a Lamborghini. Yes, 07-09 (in US market) S8s used the same engine in the 09+ Gallardo V10 with Direct Injection (and subsequently carbon build up).

Is an Audi S8 reliable?

The AUDIs are very reliable cars if you get a good mechanic who knows AUDIs and service them regularly. Maintenance costs are not unusually high, well brakes and tires can be, I do drive my cars out toward the edge. Also, select a high quality motor oil, something by Motul, Torco or Redline.

Does the 2007 Audi S8 V-10 have a timing belt or chain?

Also, the newer S8 uses a timing chain and not a belt. Maybe it's more reliable, but if it breaks the whole engine has to come out of the car.

Does a 2007 Audi S8 have a Lamborghini engine?

Looks like the 2nd gen S8 used the same V10 that was used in the Gallardo, but the current generation S8/RS8 has a V8, so definitely not the same engine as a Lamborghini. Yes, 07-09 (in US market) S8s used the same engine in the 09+ Gallardo V10 with Direct Injection (and subsequently carbon build up).

How many miles do Audi S8 last?

200,000 miles

Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained. It's why it isn't uncommon to see a 90s Audi on the road today.

2007 Audi S8 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S8 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Visibility problems
  • Structure problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2007 Audi S8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2007 Audi S8 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2007 Audi S8.

2019-11-12

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-29
  • VIN: WAUPN44E47N
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 AUDI S8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE SUN ROOF DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUDI ALBANY (723 NEW LOUDON RD, LATHAM, NY 12110, (518)783-5003) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE GLUE USED TO SECURE THE SUN ROOF FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUN ROOF NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY ATTEMPTING TO REPLACE THE SUN ROOF WITH A USED ONE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V415000 (VISIBILITY). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
2019-11-06

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-29
  • VIN: WAUPN44E47N
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY MY SUNROOF GLASS CAME OUT THE ENTIRE FRAME
2014-10-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-11-15
  • VIN: WAUPN44E47N
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: THE ACTUAL REAR VIEW CAMERA SCREEN LIFTS OUT OF DASH IN THIS CAR. SHORTLY AFTER PURCHACEING MY CAR THE ENTIER SCREEN STOPPED LIFING OUT OF THE DASH THERE FOR I HAVE NO CAMERA OPERATION. ALL OF THE CONTROLS OF THE FACTORY AIR BAG SUSPENSION AND ANY RIDE CONTROLS ARE UNUSABLE AS YOU NO LONGER HAVE A SCREEN TO VIEW ANY OF THE CONTROLS/NAVAGATION/HANDS FREE CONTROLS/BLUETOOTH OR REAR VIEW OF THE CAR WHILE OPERATING THE CAR. ALL YOU HEAR IS A SOUND OF A GEAR STRIPPED OUT CLICKING AND YOUR SCREEN NEVER LIFTS OUT OF THE DASH.I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE ONLY BECAUSE THIS IS A LARGE CAR WITH MULTIPLE BLIND SPOTS ESPICIALLY IF THE REAR GLASS HAS ANY TINT ON IT. I HAVE DONE LOTS OF RESERCH ON LINE AND HAVE FOUND HUNDEREDS OF COMPLAINTS AND EVERY ONE OF THEM ARE IDENTICAL. EVERY COMPLAINT STATES THE IS A CHEAP PLASTIC GEAR THAT STRIPS OUT AND AUDI WANTS $1100 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SYSTEM ONLY TO REPLACE IT WITH THE SAME PLASTIC PIECE THAT ORIGINALLY FAILED NO UPGRADE OR PERMENATE FIX FOR THIS ISSUE. THE DEALER SHIP IS AWARE OF THIS FLAW AND TOLD ME THIS IS A COMMON PROBLUM AND WAS ABLE TO QUOTE THE REPAIR OVER THE PHONE WITH OUT EVEN AN INSPECTION. IF THERE WAS A SMALL CHILD OR ANYTHING BEHIND THIS CAR YOU WOULD HAVE NO IDEA AND BACK OVER THEM/OR IT ONLY BECAUSE OF THE HUGE BLIND SPOT AND NO CAMERA OPERATION.PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS SAFETY ISSUE AS IT WAS NOT ONLY IN THE 2007 S8 IT WAS ALSO IN THE A8 AND ANY OTHER AUDI WITH A MMI LIFT SCREEN INSTALLED FOR MULTIPLE YEARS. *TR

2007 Audi S8 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2007 Audi S8.

2016-06-09
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The sunroof glass on the affected vehicles may not be properly secured to the sunroof frame. As a result, the sunroof glass may detach from the car while driving.
  • Consequence: If the glass detaches from the sunroof frame it could be come a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install additional adhesive between the sunroof glass and frame, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in August 4, 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 60C3.

Negative 2007 Audi S8 car reviews

  1. Lavern Renner 2024-04-05

    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.

Positive 2007 Audi S8 car reviews

  1. Austyn Zieme 2024-09-13

    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!

  2. Irwin Kirlin 2024-08-11

    It's such an amazing car! I've had it for a couple of months now and every time I turn on the engine, I can't help but smile like a kid in a candy store. I've owned various luxury cars over the years, but this one is truly exceptional - it's an absolute joy to drive. Even though it's similar to the A8, it still manages to turn heads wherever I go! I often find myself stuck in traffic, and let me tell you, people (especially other drivers) can't help but stare. The only downside is that it can get a bit uncomfortable when you have several pairs of eyes glued to you for extended periods of time while waiting for the lights to change.

  3. Casimer Lebsack 2024-07-29

    I recently traded in my BMW 645 Cabriolet for the S8 and I was initially worried that I might miss my old car. However, after just 4 days of driving the S8, I can confidently say that I made the right decision. I am absolutely loving my new car and feel like I've moved up in a big way!

  4. Ole Goyette 2024-07-27

    I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you were looking for a car that can handle the snow and still provide good performance. This car seems to be a great fit for you!

  5. Buck DuBuque 2024-05-13

    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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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2007 Audi S8 problems:

Audi S8 Questions - Reliability of V10 engine - CarGurus
Audi S8 Questions - Reliability of V10 engine - CarGurus
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-c9090_ds706746

Feb 8, 2016 ... The V-10 in the Audi S8 is very reliable it is way more reliable than the Audi 4.2 L engine it has it ...

Any Known Problems 06-09 S8 - Forum
Any Known Problems 06-09 S8 - Forum
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/688064-Any-Known-Problems-06-09-S8

Jan 25, 2016 ... Any Known Problems 06-09 S8 ... I'm thinking of getting back into the Audi scene again with a S8 ... I am still on my original suspension in my 2007 ...

2007 Audi S8 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
2007 Audi S8 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2007-audi-s8/problems

Top 2007 Audi S8 Problems · Rainwater May Accumulate in Plenum Tray Due to Clogged Drains · Oil Leak From Transmission Output Shaft Seal · FSI and TFSI Engines ...

Common issues with S8
Common issues with S8
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/955118-Common-issues-with-S8

May 13, 2022 ... I took it into an Audi dealer to get it diagnosed and they told me it was the upper oil pan gasket. which they quoted me just over $10K for and ...

S8 V10 5.2 FSI Common checks - AudiWorld Forums
S8 V10 5.2 FSI Common checks - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a8-s8-d3-platform-discussion-60/s8-v10-5-2-fsi-common-checks-2940115/

Jan 4, 2018 ... A8 / S8 (D3 Platform) Discussion - S8 V10 5.2 FSI Common checks - Hello! What is recommended to check from V10 5.2 FSI audi engine?

Other years of Audi S8

audi s8 2008 photo
S8 2008
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audi s8 2009 photo
S8 2009
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audi s8 2013 photo
S8 2013
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audi s8 2014 photo
S8 2014
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audi s8 2015 photo
S8 2015
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audi s8 2016 photo
S8 2016
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2007 Audi S8 photo