2013 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 2013 Audi S8 problems
The Audi S8, a luxury sedan produced by the German automaker, has been praised for its spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and responsive mechanical engineering. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the issues that Audi S8 owners have reported, based on complaints from 2013 model year owners:
- Clogged water drains and oil systems: Some Audi S8 owners have experienced issues with clogged water drains and oil systems, which can result in water accumulation in door jams and starved turbochargers in the V8 from lack of oil. This issue can be particularly problematic as it may not be immediately apparent, and if left unaddressed, can lead to more significant problems down the line.
- Electronic issues: Audi, as a brand, is known for its susceptibility to electronic issues, which can affect a wide range of models, including the S8. These issues can manifest in various ways, such as sticky buttons, and can be challenging to diagnose and repair.
- Transmission woes: Some Audi S8 owners have reported transmission problems, including the car not coming out of drive and throwing a P17F9 00 (044) Mechanical Malfunction code for 8724 Park Lock. In some cases, these issues may require significant repairs, such as replacing the mech unit or the entire transmission.
- Air suspension issues: Air suspension problems have been reported by some Audi S8 owners, which can affect the car's ride quality and handling. These issues may require costly repairs, and it is essential to address them promptly to avoid further damage.
- Turbo problems: One Audi S8 owner reported issues with the turbos, which can affect the car's performance and fuel efficiency. These problems may require significant repairs, and it is crucial to address them promptly to avoid further damage.
- Expensive maintenance and repairs: The Audi S8, like many luxury vehicles, can be expensive to maintain and repair. Parts and labor costs can be high, and it is essential to budget accordingly to avoid unexpected expenses.
- Interior scuffs and alloy wheel scrapes: Some Audi S8 owners have reported cosmetic issues, such as interior scuffs and alloy wheel scrapes, which can affect the car's appearance and value. These issues may require professional repair or replacement of damaged parts.
- Expensive tire costs: The Audi S8's high-performance tires can be expensive to replace, and it is essential to budget accordingly.
- Brake system issues: Some Audi S8 owners have reported issues with the brake system, including worn-out brake pads and discs, which can affect the car's safety and performance. These issues may require costly repairs, and it is crucial to address them promptly to avoid further damage.
In conclusion, while the Audi S8 is a luxurious and high-performing vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Owners of this vehicle should be aware of these issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. Regular inspections and prompt attention to any problems can help ensure the longevity and performance of the Audi S8.
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.
What is the gas mileage on a 2013 Audi S8?
24.5 US mpg
The combined fuel consumption of the S8 is just 9.6 liters per 100 kilometers (24.5 US mpg), and it emits 225 grams CO2 per kilometer (362.1 g/mi).
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.
Is a 2013 Audi S8 a fast car?
This violent V-8 makes Audi's plot to take over the world likely to happen more swiftly. It goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, needs just 8.5 seconds to reach 100, and tricks through the quarter-mile in 11.9 seconds at 118 mph. Never mind that the S8 is a 4620-pound car that comfortably seats five.
What is the gas mileage on a 2013 Audi S8?
24.5 US mpg
The combined fuel consumption of the S8 is just 9.6 liters per 100 kilometers (24.5 US mpg), and it emits 225 grams CO2 per kilometer (362.1 g/mi).
2013 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:
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Audi S8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2013 Audi S8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Audi S8.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-07
- VIN: Waud2afd5dn
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine turbocharger experience catastrophic damage, engine stalled, power steering was disrupted.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-22
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-01
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
- 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
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-03
- VIN: WAUD2AFD8DN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: sUN ROOF EXPLODED ON MT AUDIS8 2013. 6/03/2021.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-22
- VIN: WAUD2AFD4DN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TURBOCHARGERS FAILURE DUE TO CLOGGED OIL SCREEN. HAD TO REPLACE BOTH TURBOCHARGER WITH NEW UNITS AND REPLACED OIL SCREEN WITH UPDATED VERSION
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-15
- VIN: WAUD2AFD0DN
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY, I NOTICED THAT THE CAR WAS NOT PICKING UP APPROPRIATE SPEED WHEN ACCELERATING. THERE WAS NO PRIOR NOTICE OR ENGINE LIGHTS OR ANY ABNORMALITIES WITH THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THIS. I DECIDED TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY AT A REST AREA AND AS THE CAR WAS SLOWED DOWN AROUND 15-20 MPH, I LOST TOTAL POWER OF THE VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO STEER OR USE THE BRAKES. LUCKILY THE CAR WAS ABLE TO COAST TO A STOP WITHOUT INJURY BUT WAS EXTREMELY FRIGHTENING WITH MY FAMILY IN THE VEHICLE. AFTER TOW TO THE AUDI DEALERSHIP I WAS INFORMED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE TURBOS IN THE ENGINE. I DID EXTENSIVE REVIEW OF THIS PROBLEM AND FIND OUT THAT IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND BOILS DOWN TO A DESIGN FLAW WHERE A SMALL OIL SCREEN ESSENTIALLY STARVES THE TURBOS OF OIL. SOMETIME THESE SCREENS HAVE CLOGGED BUT IN MANY CASES ARE JUST FINE BUT IN ALL CASES HAVE LEAD TO TURBO FAILURE. THIS IS NOT A MAINTENANCE ISSUE AND ALL VEHICLES I HAVE REVIEWED HAVE BEEN FACTORY MAINTAINED WITH SERVICE RECORDS AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN THE CASE OF MY VEHICLE. THIS IS NOT CURRENTLY COVERED BY AN AUDI EXTENDED WARRANTY AND REPAIRS ARE VERY COSTLY AVERAGING AROUND 12-13K FROM THE DEALERSHIPS. I CONTACTED AUDI OF AMERICA AND FILED A COMPLAINT (AS MANY PEOPLE HAVE) AND THEY DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS DESIGN FLAW AND COSTLY REPAIR BUT HAVE NOT ISSUED ANY RECALLS. THIS IS CLEARLY A SAFETY CONCERN BECAUSE HAD I LOST POWER ON THE HIGHWAY I MOST CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN A CATASTROPHIC ACCIDENT. AUDI HAD RECENTLY ISSUED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY SERVICE ON A FAULTY ENGINE OIL PCV VALVE AND THAT REPAIR WAS AROUND 2-3K. CLEARLY THERE IS A TREND HERE WITH THESE ENGINES. I AM HOPEFUL THAT WITH THIS AND OTHER COMPLAINTS, THAT THIS MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE WILL LEAD TO WARRANTY EXTENSION AND/OR RECALL FOR REPAIR OF THIS PROBLEM. THANK YOU.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-02
- VIN: WAUD2AFD9DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: BOTH TURBOS ON THE ENGINE WERE DAMAGED TO THE POINT OF REPLACEMENT, CAUSING THE CAR TO STALL OUT AT IDLE AT A BUSY INTERSECTION PUTTING ME IN DANGER OF AN ACCIDENT. MY CAR HAD LESS THAN 50,000 MILES ON IT. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-07
- VIN: WAUD2AFD4DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE CAR STARTED TO RUN ROUGH AND WOULDN'T IDLE WHEN I CAME TO A STOP. IT BECAME VERY HARD TO START, ESPECIALLY WHEN HOT. WHILE THE CAR WAS IN FOR RECALL WORK IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BAD TURBOCHARGERS. QUOTED OVER $10K IN REPAIRS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-16
- VIN: WAUD2AFD9DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: IT IF VERY WELL KNOWN ISSUE FOR 4.0TT V8 AUDI ENGINE, THERE IS POUR OIL SUPPLY TO TURBOS WHICH CAUSING THEM TO FAIL. AFTER AN HOUR OF CRUISING ON HIGHWAY CAR WOULD CHOKE ON IDLE, DIFFICULT TO EVEN START. AUDI DEALER DIAGNOSED TURBO FAILURE WITHOUT UNDERLINE CAUSE. 10K DOLLARS REPAIR EVERY 20-50K MILES IS UNREASONABLE DUE TO FACT THAT OIL SEPARATOR, OIL STRAINER, SEALS AND COOLANT LINES HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED TO BE DEFECTIVE AND UPDATED BY MANUFACTURER (AUDI)
WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-05
- VIN: WAUD2AFD4DN
- Components: WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: CAR HAS 3 BENT RIMS AND A BROKEN MOTOR MOUNT CARMAX WILL TRY TO SAY THEY FIXED RIMS AND THE MOTOR MOUNT IS FINE
2013 Audi S8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2013 Audi S8.
- 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: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S8 and A8 vehicles. The seal around the engine compartment may come loose and contact hot engine components.
- Consequence: If the seal contacts hot engine components, there could be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will install a retaining plate to prevent the engine compartment seal from loosening. The recall began September 4, 2020. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 51G6.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The fuel supply line for the high pressure fuel pump may become porous and leak fuel.
- Consequence: Leaking fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of fire.
- Remedy: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will install a fuel pressure damper, free of charge. The recall began February 21, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20BM.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Audi S8 and A8 vehicles. The fuel supply line for the high pressure fuel pump may become porous over time, resulting in a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel line, free of charge. The recall began July 20, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20AV.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
- Components: VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles equipped with a standard sunroof, manufactured March 12, 2013, through July 15, 2013. These vehicles are equipped with a standard sunroof glass panel that may shatter.
- Consequence: Should the sunroof's glass break while the vehicle is in use, the falling glass could injure the driver or passengers. It could also distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the sunroof glass panel, free of charge. The recall began on October 21, 2013. Owners may contact Audi of America at 1-800-822-2834. Volkwagen's number for this campaign is 60B6/1L.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Audi S8 problems:
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