The Audi S4 Years to Avoid
We've identified six Audi S4 years to avoid. Keep reading to learn which years are considered unreliable models and why.
The Audi S4 is a take on the popular Audi A4, offering a higher-performance version for those who want to take their Audi experience to the next level. However, Audi S4s are not inexpensive to make your own. If you’re looking to invest in the best Audi S4 for your life, it’s vital to know the Audi S4 years to avoid.
Whether you’re looking for a new Audi S4 or something from the used market, it’s vital to invest in the best for your money. The more ideal vehicles are typically reliable and incur the least issues over the years. Keep reading to learn more about the Audi S4 years to avoid, the best to purchase used, and other helpful information.
Quick Answer: Avoid Audi S4 Year Models 2005, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2018, 2019
Unfortunately, no years of the Audi S4 have an incredible track record. However, the Audi S4 years to avoid include the 2005, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2019 models. These have the most reported issues and will cost precious time and money to care for as an owner.
Which Year Models of Audi S4 are Safe to Buy Used?
If you want dependability, the Audi S4 isn’t the way to go. However, several years stand out as the best, safest selections to purchase if you are determined to invest in the Audi S4.
According to carcomplaints.com, here are the safest years of the Audi S4 to purchase used:
- 2008 Audi S4
- 2012 Audi S4
- 2013 Audi S4
- 2016 Audi S4
- 2017 Audi S4
- 2020 Audi S4
- 2021 Audi S4
These have an excellent track record in reported issues and dependability.
The best years of all these are the 2012 and 2013 models. Although there are some reported troubles from owners, they stand out in dependability and ability to perform on the road. These are a far safer investment.
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Which Year Models of Audi S4 to Avoid:
We already mentioned them above, but there are several years to avoid with the Audi S4. There have been some serious issues reported by drivers of these selections. These troubles mean it will take far more effort to keep your Audi S4 in excellent condition.
The years of the Audi S4 to avoid include the following:
- 2005 Audi S4
- 2010 Audi S4
- 2011 Audi S4
- 2014 Audi S4
- 2018 Audi S4
- 2019 Audi S4
These are selections to keep away, if possible.
When looking at these issues, the worst year is the 2010 Audi S4 for its serious troubles with the transmission. The prominent struggle points for the 2010 Audi S4’s transmission include TPMS and gearbox malfunction error, lunging, error codes, and the transmission sticking the car in park.
Common Audi S4 Problems
Every car is different, offering various problems that appear over time. The years to avoid tend to be more prone to these troubles. No matter which year you purchase, it’s vital to be aware of these items for the best ownership experience.
According to repairpal.com, here are the most common issues with the Audi S4:
- Overheating thanks to a failed thermostat
- Check engine light appearance
- Bushings deteriorating with age
- Rainwater accumulation
- Trouble starting again
These can prove problematic in the Audi S4’s system.
Any owner or potential owner of the Audi S4 should know what they’re getting into before investing. If any of these seem like too much to handle, you might want to ponder your Audi S4 choice before putting down a significant amount of money.
Audi S4 Problem Counts by Year
Another excellent location to check out when determining the Audi S4 years to avoid is the problem counts by year. These come straight from drivers and thus provide excellent first-hand knowledge.
According to carcomplaints.com, here are the Audi S4 problem counts by year:
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Are Audi S4s typically reliable?
Unfortunately, the Audi S4 is not a reliable selection. According to repairpal.com, the Audi S4 scores ⅖, placing it 27th out of 31 selections in the luxury midsize car market. It’s very close to the back of the rankings.
The typical annual cost for repairs for the S4 is $1,171, compared to $739 for other luxury cars and $652 for all vehicles. It must be taken in for unexpected repairs an average of .9 times a year, compared to .6 and .4, and there is a 17% chance the issue will be severe, compared to 12% for the others.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE AUDI S4
The Audi S4 is a high-performance vehicle, offering a variant of the classic compact executive selection - the Audi A4. However, if you want to make the most of your money, it’s vital to land on the most reliable Audi S4 year available.
How much does a used Audi S4 typically cost?
When considering the Audi S4 years to avoid, it’s beneficial to know how much it will cost for this vehicle. It’s one of the pricier models on the market.
For a 2024 Audi S4, the starting price is around $54,500. On the other hand, used versions will cost around $25,000-$50,000.
Is the Audi S4 a good car to purchase?
There are many Audi S4 years to avoid. This leaves one final question - is the Audi S4 a worthy purchase?
We don’t recommend the Audi S4 thanks to its low dependability and high cost. If you do want the Audi S4, go with one of the most dependable years.
FAQs: Audi S4 Years to Avoid
Q: Which Audi S4 years should I avoid?
Keep away from the 2005, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2019 models. They have a high number of complaints reported by drivers.
Q: Did any of the Audi S4 years to avoid have other significant issues?
Transmission troubles are the most common issue with the worst Audi S4 years. This statement is especially true for the 2010 version.
Q: Are newer Audi S4 models more reliable?
Several newer models are more reliable, from 2020 on. However, the car generally is unreliable.
Q: Is the Audi S4 a good car to purchase?
Unless you adore the Audi S4, we don’t recommend it. There are better midsize luxury vehicle selections.
ARE AUDIS EXPENSIVE TO MAINTAIN?
Are Audis expensive to maintain? If you own an Audi or have your eye on one, you’re likely wondering about its “true cost to own,” including its repair and maintenance costs.
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