2009 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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Common 2009 Audi S8 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Audi S8 2009, several common problems have been reported:
- Rainwater Accumulation in Plenum Tray: One common issue reported by owners is the accumulation of rainwater in the plenum tray due to clogged drains. This can lead to water ingress into the vehicle, potentially causing electrical issues and interior damage.
- Blown Turbo: Another prevalent problem, particularly in the 2014 model year, is related to blown turbos. This issue can result in a loss of engine power, increased exhaust emissions, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Carbon Buildup: Owners have highlighted concerns about carbon buildup in the intake system, especially in the V10 engine. This buildup can lead to reduced engine performance, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption if not cleaned regularly.
- Expensive Repairs: Several owners have mentioned that repairs for certain components, such as the air suspension compressor and electronics, can be costly. This factor should be considered when evaluating the overall cost of ownership for the Audi S8.
- Timing Chain Maintenance: The newer S8 models use a timing chain instead of a belt. While this change may improve reliability, it also means that if the timing chain fails, the entire engine needs to be removed for repair, which can be a complex and expensive process.
These reported issues highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to warning signs, and consideration of potential repair costs when owning an Audi S8, particularly the 2009 model.
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.
Why is the Audi S8 so fast?
The Audi S8 really wants to move. No chauffeur mode in this baby; the driver gets to enjoy power and speed with their luxury. The 4.0-liter V-8 engine with 563 horses gets the large sedan to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, according to Car and Driver. That's EV-level fast.
Does the 2007 Audi S8 V10 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.
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.
What is the top speed of a 2009 Audi S8?
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).
Does Audi S8 have air suspension?
Up 50 millimeters. In less than a second to make it easier to get in and out of this car. And once you get in this car will lower itself down automatically. Which makes for a very comfortable ride.
2009 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/wiper problems
- Visibility problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Audi S8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2009 Audi S8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Audi S8.
VISIBILITY/WIPER,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-21
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-09
- VIN: WAUPN94E19N
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 2009 AUDI S8 THROTTLE STUCK WIDE OPEN WHILE ACCELERATING ONTO HIGHWAY. FULL BREAKING DID NOT DISCONNECT THROTTLE. BRAKED HARD AND PULLED TO SIDE OF ROAD AND SHUT DOWN ENGINE. HAD TOWED INTO MIRAMAR AUDI, SAN DIEGO. AUDI AMERICA BROUGHT IN AND BLAMED FLOOR MATS. I PAID $2300 TO REPLACE THROTTLE CONTROL MODULES AFTER AUDI REFUSED TO DO SO. *JB
2009 Audi S8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2009 Audi S8.
- 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 2009 Audi S8 car reviews
Positive 2009 Audi S8 car reviews
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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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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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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!
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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!
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It's worth noting that the S8 may lag behind other luxury cars in certain aspects, but this is only revealed by a few clicks on the stopwatch. In real-world applications, the S8's 4x4 drive system makes it vastly more confidence-inspiring than its competitors. The S8 seamlessly governs oversteer, understeer, and anything else you can throw at it, making you feel in control at all times. Even when driving extremely hard, the S8's limits are far more accessible than those of its competitors. In fact, I would venture to say that in the canyons near SLC, I can drive the S8 faster than its competitors. Overall, the S8 is an impressive car that offers a superior driving experience.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Audi S8 problems:
2009 Audi S8 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 2009 Audi S8 Problems · Rainwater May Accumulate in Plenum Tray Due to Clogged Drains · Oil Leak From Transmission Output Shaft Seal · FSI and TFSI Engines ...
Audi S8 Reliability - AudiWorld Forums
Dec 5, 2015 ... A8 / S8 (D3 Platform) Discussion - Audi S8 Reliability - Hi ... As for the torque issues I am not aware of any problems ... (2009 was it for S8s) and ...
Any Known Problems 06-09 S8 - Forum
Jan 25, 2016 ... Hello and welcome to the Audizine Forums! As a guest, you are welcome to poke around and view the majority of the content that we have to offer, ...
Audi S8 Questions - Reliability of V10 engine - CarGurus
Feb 8, 2016 ... Reliability of V10 engine - Whats the reliability of the Audi S8 w/ V10, and were there any service issues.
Thinking of buying a 2009 Audi A8L. - AudiWorld Forums
Jan 11, 2019 ... The only issues you would have trouble doing yourself is if the timing chain develops problems and intake manifold carbon fouling. Other issues ...
Other years of Audi S8
Are you having problems with your 2009 Audi S8?
Bertram Klocko 2024-10-04
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.