2016 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).

2016 Audi S8

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Common 2016 Audi S8 problems

Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here are the common problems reported by owners of the Audi S8 2016:

  • Lack of Sense of Occasion Inside: Some owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the interior of the Audi S8, mentioning that it lacks a sense of occasion. The car's interior may not feel as opulent or luxurious as expected for a flagship model, potentially impacting the overall driving experience.
  • Limited Presence: The Audi S8 has been criticized for its lack of visual presence, with some owners finding the exterior design to be bland and lacking in character. Despite its powerful performance, the car may not stand out visually compared to other luxury vehicles in its class.
  • Speed Limit Restrictions: Owners in regions with speed limits, like the UK, have highlighted that the Audi S8's performance capabilities are somewhat wasted due to these restrictions. The car's powerful engine and performance features may not be fully utilized in areas with lower speed limits, limiting the driving experience.

These reported problems provide insights into some of the common issues faced by owners of the Audi S8 2016 model. Addressing these concerns promptly and ensuring regular maintenance can help mitigate potential issues and enhance the overall ownership experience of the vehicle.

2016 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.

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.

Which A8 is most reliable?

The Audi A8 is an excellent choice if you're hunting for a full-size luxury sedan with excellent reviews. We recommend the 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2021, or 2022 years for the best results.

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.

What engine is in a 2016 Audi S8?

4.0L TFSI V-8

The 2016 S8 Plus packs the same 4.0L TFSI V-8 as the blistering RS7, albeit with a different tune to make it a bit more "civilized," befitting the top-of-the-line Audi sedan.

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.

2016 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:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Steering problems
  • Power train problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Electronic stability control (esc) problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Audi S8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2016 Audi S8 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Audi S8.

2019-11-24

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: STEERING: SYSTEM FAULT YOU CAN CONTINUE DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.
2019-11-24

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: SPORT DIFFERENTIAL: SYSTEM FAULT. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.
2019-11-24

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: AIR SUSPENSION: SYSTEM FAULT. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.
2019-11-24

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: STABILIZATION CONTROL (ESC): FAULT! SEE OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.
2019-11-24

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: HILL-START ASSIST: UNAVAILABLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.
2019-11-24

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-23
  • VIN: WUAJ5AFD8GN
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I STARTED THE CAR LAST FRIDAY, 11/15/2019 AND GOT A BUNCH OF SYSTEM ERRORS POPPING UP ONE RIGHT AFTER THE OTHER. I DROVE THE CAR TO GET TO A SAFE PARKING SPOT AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL TOTALLY OFF CENTER ABOUT 70 DEGREES COUNTER CLOCKWISE. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TWO (ACCIDENT/CALIBRATION AND THE FAULTS) CONNECTED OR IF THIS IS JUST A COINCIDENCE. I DID NOT TAKE ANY NOTES OF THE FAULTS AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE MY PHONE OR ANYTHING TO WRITE WITH. NOW, TODAY, I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AND WAS DOING ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. IT WAS SCARY AS HELL HAVING THE STEERING WHEEL GO COMPLETELY OFF CENTER AND HAVE THE SUSPENSION HARD AS A ROCK. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I DID DRIVE TO A SAFE PLACE AND VIDEO TAPED THE FAULTS. THE ACTUAL FAULT IS: ACC AND AUDI BRAKING GUARD: UNAVAILABLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 11/15/2019, 11/18/2019, AND 11/23/2019. FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED SOON AFTER I STARTED THE CAR. THE SECOND HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON THE PARKWAY TRAVELING 60 MPH. THE THIRD HAPPENED RIGHT OFF THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH.

2016 Audi S8 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2016 Audi S8.

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.
2020-07-07
  • 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.
2019-01-28
  • 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.

Negative 2016 Audi S8 car reviews

  1. Osvaldo Beatty 2024-11-21

    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.

Positive 2016 Audi S8 car reviews

  1. Hank Abshire 2024-11-11

    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!

Leave your review of 2016 Audi S8

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Audi S8 problems:

DONT EVER BUY AUDI S8 2014-2017 - AudiWorld Forums
DONT EVER BUY AUDI S8 2014-2017 - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a8-s8-d4-platform-discussion-190/dont-ever-buy-audi-s8-2014-2017-a-2944928/

Mar 13, 2018 ... A8 / S8 (D4 Platform) Discussion - DONT EVER BUY AUDI S8 2014-2017 - Hi guys! If you want to have a lot of problems with a car you have to ...

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 ... WasTiSLine said: 01-26-2016 06:53 AM. The D3 is one of Audi's more reliable platforms. Some of the problem areas are the air suspension ...

D4 S8 folks, any complaints? : r/Audi
D4 S8 folks, any complaints? : r/Audi
https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/w2r4lt/d4_s8_folks_any_complaints/

Jul 19, 2022 ... I mean a lot of the times it's the “problems” people complain about.. on forums or whatever.. they aren't as common as you'd think; outside of a ...

Audi S8 Plus (D4)
Audi S8 Plus (D4)
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/916289-Audi-S8-Plus-(D4)

Dec 10, 2020 ... I recently got rid of my S7 and vowed never to touch the Audi 4.0TT platform again, however I've seen a late 2016 Audi S8 Plus come up for sale ...

Audi S8 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Audi S8 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/audi/s8

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

Other years of Audi S8

audi s8 2021 photo
S8 2021
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audi s8 2007 photo
S8 2007
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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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