Which Years Of Used Audi S7s Are Most Reliable?
Audi S7 by Thomas doerfer - CC-BY-SA-4.0
Over the years, Audi has built a strong reputation for producing high-performance vehicles that offer top-of-the-line luxury, technology, and impressive driving dynamics. For those looking for the sportiness of a coupe and functionality of a sedan, the Audi S7 might be right up your alley.
The Audi S7 is a high-performance variant of the Audi A7, a luxury four-door coupe. It is praised for its sleek design, spacious interior, and sophisticated tech. Under the hood, it typically boasts an enthusiastic engine that ensures a thrilling driving experience, complemented by Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
THE AUDI S7 YEARS TO AVOID
If you want to buy a used Audi S7, know that some years are less reliable than others. As such, we have made a quick guide about the Audi S7 years to avoid if you’re buying used.
Within Audi’s lineup, the S7 sits between the standard A7 and the more performance-oriented RS7. While the A7 offers luxury and comfort, the S7 takes it a step further with enhanced performance capabilities without going to the extreme of the RS7. This middle ground makes the S7 perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.
If you’re interested in buying a used Audi S7, some years are more reliable than others. Below, we rounded up the most reliable Audi S7 year, along with the ones you should cautiously approach as a used car buyer.
2013-2018 Audi S7 (1st Generation)
The first-generation Audi S7 was based on the A7 platform. It boasted a reduced ride height compared to the A7, featuring a sportier look and enhanced aerodynamics. The S7’s adaptive air suspension provided adjustable firmness and height, ensuring perfect comfort and dynamic handling.
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Avoid: 2013 Audi S7
Like many debut model years, the 2013 Audi S7 might be worth skipping due to a number of issues and consumer complaints. As per CarComplaints.com, the 2013 Audi S7 has the most number of consumer complaints, and its problems were rather severe.
The number one pain point for many 2013 S7 owners is the issues related to the engine. The S7’s turbocharger received the brunt of the complaints. According to multiple reports, the vehicle lost motive power while driving, and upon inspection by an independent mechanic, it was found that the turbocharger needed replacement. Also, several owners complained about the oil screen being clogged, leading to turbos being starved of oil and subsequently failing.
Several owners experienced sudden engine shutdowns while driving. In some cases, the engine would stall and become difficult to restart. These issues were often linked to turbo failures or oil lubrication problems.
With these engine issues, you’ll likely have to deal with expensive repairs if you buy a used 2013 S7.
Avoid: 2014 Audi S7
The following year the S7 marginally improved reliability, but it still has some serious mechanical issues, as reported by owners. CarComplaints has documented 18 complaints and four recalls for the 2014 S7.
Unfortunately, the main issue of the 2014 Audi S7 lies with its engine, including engine stalls and turbocharger failure. Multiple owners reported unexpected stalling of the S7 while driving, especially on highways or busy roads – a significant safety risk, for sure. However, a recurring problem with the 2014 Audi S7 seems to be related to the turbochargers. Failures, breakages, and the need for replacements were frequently mentioned, often attributed to oil starvation. Moreover, some of the reported problems occurred at relatively low mileage.
Disgruntled owners also emphasized the expensive nature of the repairs, especially when it came to replacing turbochargers or addressing issues stemming from design flaws.
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Buy: 2015 Audi S7
Thankfully, the following 2015 iteration is relatively problem-free and is one of the most reliable Audi S7 year models. CarComplaints has listed only one complaint, and three recalls for the 2015 Audi S7. Similarly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received a single complaint for this S7 model.
The 2015 Audi S7 is powered by a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 420 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. The engine is paired with a seven-speed automated S Tronic manual transmission. Audi claims the S7 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, which should be a treat for those looking for pure performance.
As expected, one of the main drawbacks of the S7 is the tight rear-seat headroom, which might be uncomfortable for taller passengers due to the car’s sleek roofline.
Avoid: 2016 Audi S7
The 2016 Audi S7 has received only a few complaints. However, it’s a year you’ll want to approach with caution due to serious mechanical issues. Unfortunately, this model year has seen another round of turbocharger failure.
The most prominent issue with the 2016 Audi S7 appears to be related to the turbochargers. Multiple owners reported failures, often leading to sudden engine shutdowns while driving. According to consumers and experts, a significant cause behind turbocharger failures seems to be oil starvation, which can lead to clogging of an oil screen. Some owners and dealers have identified this issue as a common problem.
While there’s no specific mileage or age at which an Audi turbocharger should be replaced, many can last well over 100,000 miles if properly maintained. According to Repairpal, the average cost of replacing an Audi S7 turbocharger is between $4,239 and $4,699.
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Buy: 2018 Audi S7
The 2018 model is an easy pick for the most reliable Audi S7 year because it has little to no known issues or complaints. The 2018 S7 is equal parts a practical luxury fastback and an unrelenting sports sedan. With the 450-hp twin-turbo V-8 engine and head-turning looks, the 2018 Audi S7 is an excellent high-end hatchback that delivers both luxury and performance.
Buy: 2020 Audi S7
If you don’t mind a newer model, the 2020 Audi S7 is a top-notch, albeit not cheap, date. The 2020 Audi S7 provides an attractive happy medium of practicality and performance. The S7 offers an undeniable charm, and the S-specific details like quad exhaust tips add a more aggressive personality to an already good-looking fastback. Performance-wise, the twin-turbocharged 2.9-Liter V6 engine gives 444 horses and a 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds.
Overall, a used 2020 S7 may not be the most sensible purchase, but it certainly tugs on your emotions.
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