The Audi S8 Years to Avoid
We've identified two Audi S8 years to avoid based on documented recalls and common problems. Check out which ones we mean so you can make an informed used car shopping decision.
The Audi S8, a sophisticated sedan known for its stellar comfort and performance, is a bit of an underdog for luxury car enthusiasts. Known for its understated elegance and powerful engine, the S8 is perfect for both relaxed commutes and spirited drives. While many luxury cars are moving toward electrification, the S8 remains a strong advocate for the classic V8 engine.
Despite its impressive performance, the S8 is often overlooked and rarely appears on dream car lists. However, for those who value comfort, elegance, and effortless power, it’s hard to go wrong with the Audi S8.
However, understand that not all S8 model years are equal. The following sections will discuss the Audi S8 years to avoid and why they may not be your best choice in the used car market.
Which Audi S8 Years to Avoid?
Audi isn’t exactly known for its reliability, which is fair considering it’s a luxury brand. According to RepairPal, Audi’s reliability rating stands at 3.0 out of 5.0, placing the brand in 28th among 32 car manufacturers. This assessment is derived from analyzing data across 345 distinct Audi models. On average, Audi owners can expect to spend $987 annually on maintenance and repairs, which is higher than the industry average of $652.
Audi vehicles typically require 0.8 visits to a repair shop each year for unscheduled servicing, compared to the 0.4 average across all models. Furthermore, the likelihood of a severe repair for an Audi is 13%, slightly higher than the 12% probability for major issues across all vehicle brands.
With that said, below is a roundup of the Audi S8 years to avoid due to known reliability issues, recalls, and owner complaints:
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2013 Audi S8
The 2013 Audi S8 has encountered its share of engine-related challenges, leaving some owners grappling with unexpected repair bills. A recurring issue involves the car’s turbochargers, which have demonstrated a propensity to malfunction before their anticipated lifespan. This malfunction can lead to a range of symptoms, such as erratic idling, reduced engine performance, and starting difficulties.
In some instances, the turbo failure has resulted in the vehicle stalling, even at reduced speeds. Audi has recognized that an insufficient oil supply to the turbos is a contributing factor to these malfunctions. With repair expenses often surpassing tens of thousands of dollars, the 2013 S8’s engine woes can be a deal-breaker for many used car buyers.
2013 S8 Recalls
As of this writing, the 2013 S8 has had five recalls total – not the end of the world, but it’s worth noting if you’re looking to buy a used unit:
- Turbocharger oil strainer (March 2022): The turbocharger oil supply strainer may become blocked, causing bearing wear due to insufficient lubrication. This can lead to engine stalls, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the oil filter and perform an oil change free of charge.
- Engine compartment seal (July 2020): The seal around the engine compartment may detach and come into contact with hot engine components, increasing the fire risk. Dealers will install a retaining plate to prevent the seal from loosening.
- Fuel supply line (January 2019 and June 2018): Over time, the high-pressure fuel pump’s supply line in certain Audi models may deteriorate, developing porous sections that allow fuel to escape. This fuel leakage poses a significant fire hazard if it comes into contact with an ignition source.
- Sunroof glass (September 2013): The standard sunroof glass panel may shatter, potentially injuring occupants and distracting the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the sunroof glass panel at no cost to owners.
For more complete information on these recalls, please visit the 2013 S8 NHTSA page.
2014 Audi S8
If engine problems are a big concern, the 2014 model is certainly one of the worst Audi S8 years to avoid.
The 2014 Audi S8 and several S6 models have grappled with a familiar prevalent issue: sudden turbocharger failure. This problem has left many owners feeling uneasy, as it can happen without warning and can put drivers at risk. Audi has issued a Technical Service Bulletin, but many owners were demanding a full recall to tackle the problem head-on in all affected vehicles.
To add to the frustration, some owners have reported other engine issues, such as low oil warnings and power loss. When these problems are brought to Audi’s attention, the response has often been unsatisfactory, but was later addressed by the automaker (might be too little, too late for some).
Moreover, the 2014 Audi S8 has several suspension issues, primarily with its air suspension system. Common problems include air suspension system faults, where the vehicle may lose height while parked, and issues with the air suspension sensor, which can cause the system to shut down.
ARE AUDIS RELIABLE?
Like all manufacturers, some years were more robust than others, raising questions about whether it’s worth buying. Are Audis reliable, and should you consider the brand for your next vehicle purchase?
2014 S8 Recalls
Below are the recalls for the 2014 S8 (pretty much the same recalls as the 2013 model), which used car buyers should know of.
- Blocked turbocharger oil strainer (March 2022): Audi recalled 26,093 units of the 2014 S8 due to a blocked turbocharger oil strainer. This issue could cause engine stalls, increasing the risk of crashes. The remedy involves replacing the oil strainer and performing an oil change, free of charge.
- Engine compartment seal (July 2020): Audi issued a recall for select 2013-2018 S8 and A8 models due to a potential problem with the engine compartment seal. The seal may detach and come into contact with hot engine parts, which could increase the likelihood of a fire.
- Fuel supply line (January 2019 and June 2018): Audi recalled certain 2013-2016 A8 and S8 vehicles because the fuel supply line for the high-pressure fuel pump could become porous and leak fuel, increasing the risk of fire if an ignition source is present. Depending on the recall, dealers will either install a fuel pressure damper or replace the fuel line to address this issue.
- Sunroof (September 2013): Audi recalled certain 2013-2014 A8 and S8 vehicles equipped with a standard sunroof because the sunroof glass panel may shatter. If this occurs while the vehicle is in use, falling glass could injure occupants and distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the sunroof glass panel to resolve the issue.
Due to these recalls and the dreaded engine issues, it’s hard for us to recommend the 2014 Audi S8. Overall, apart from these two model years with major engine issues, the Audi S8 has very minimal complaints and offers decent reliability across the board.
WHERE ARE AUDIS MADE?
Where are Audis made? Are they a U.S. company, or manufactured or assembled in the United States?
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