Generation-specific owner insights from 28+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy a 2013–2017 A8?219
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2013–2017
23
recall campaigns
engine
most-complained area
Our take, from owner reports
Owners describe the D4-generation A8 as a refined, comfortable, and visually timeless flagship that delivers a superb ride, strong performance, and a sense of occasion.
18 problems reported (1 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 13 isolated) · high confidence
Multiple owners reported this as the defining issue of the 4.0T, with Audi issuing a recall for 2013-2017 models; one owner paid $12,500 for the repair before the recall.
Owners report struts typically needing replacement by 100k miles, with cold-weather suspension errors that level out after a few minutes.
Multiple owners report front control arm bushings splitting around 45-60k miles, causing squeaks over bumps.
Owners describe a whistling noise at idle that goes away under acceleration, requiring supercharger removal to replace.
Listed by multiple owners as common items needing replacement on both 3.0T and 4.0T engines.
One owner reported the pump broke and leaked all fluid into the garage.
One owner reported dash errors fixed under warranty.
One owner reported active mounts failing around 45k miles (under warranty); another mentioned them as a known cost.
Mentioned as a common issue on the 4.0T without specific details.
Mentioned as a known issue with a recall.
One owner reported both blower motors (under armrest and behind glovebox) failing.
One owner reported this issue without a known fix.
One owner recommends walnut shell blasting every 20k miles.
One owner reported consumption starting around 65k miles; another reported adding a quart with the level still reading minimum.
One owner reported a fuel filter change didn't resolve their issue, with fuel pump pressure suggested as a diagnostic step.
Mentioned as occasional issues.
Listed as a common thing to check on high-mileage examples.
Listed as common things to know about on high-mileage examples.
The 3.0T supercharged V6 is consistently described as the most reliable engine choice in the D4 generation, with one owner reporting 211k miles on theirs with only a short list of repairs. The 4.0T is praised for its power but flagged as the least reliable engine in the lineup, with the turbo oil screen issue being the primary failure point. The W12 is described by one owner as likely the most reliable engine Audi ever made, though repair costs if something fails are extreme. No single model year within 2013-2017 is singled out as clearly best, but the 2015-2017 facelift (D4.5) is generally what later buyers reference.
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 7 Series, BMW M3, BMW Z4, Porsche Panamera and Audi A6.
Is a 2013–2017 A8 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Owners describe the D4-generation A8 as a refined, comfortable, and visually timeless flagship that delivers a superb ride, strong performance, and a sense of occasion. The 3.0T engine is widely regarded as solid and capable of high mileage, while the 4.0T is seen as more powerful but less reliable, with the turbo oil screen issue being the dominant concern. Owners consistently warn that maintenance and repair costs are high: this is an $80,000+ luxury car regardless of purchase price: and that a well-maintained example with service records is essential. Early model years (2013-2014) and later ones (2015-2017) share the same core platform, with the 4.0T recall coverage being a major factor for post-2014 buyers.
Owners who cross-shopped the A8 against the Porsche Panamera and BMW 7 Series found the A8 superior in ride smoothness, interior material quality, comfort, space, and overall refinement, calling it "night and day" better than the Panamera at similar price and mileage. Against the smaller Audi A6 and S4, owners note the A8 is heavier and more comfort-oriented, while the A6/S4 are more nimble and fun to drive: but the A8 offers far better ride comfort, especially with air suspension and double-pane windows. Compared to Lexus, owners acknowledge Lexus has better long-term reliability statistics, but the Audi is more fun to drive, with the trade-off being higher maintenance costs. One owner noted the A8's quattro launch helped it beat an M3 in a stoplight race.
Owners recommend the 3.0T for those prioritizing reliability, with multiple owners noting it can reach 200k+ miles if maintained. For 4.0T buyers, the turbo oil screen recall (covering 2013-2017 models) is a critical consideration: owners advise verifying the recall was completed and the revised strainer installed. The 3.0 TDI diesel is mentioned as a reliable option with excellent fuel economy, though availability is limited. Owners advise against high-mileage examples (150k+) unless the buyer is prepared for potentially expensive repairs, and strongly recommend a pre-purchase inspection by a knowledgeable independent Audi mechanic.
This generation suits buyers who value comfort, refinement, and presence over running costs, and who can budget $3-5k annually for unexpected repairs. Owners consistently stress the importance of full service records, verifying all recalls are completed (the 2015 model year had five), and finding an independent Audi specialist rather than using dealers. The 3.0T is the safer choice for high-mileage ownership; the 4.0T can be reliable but requires the oil screen recall to be addressed. Buyers should budget for control arm bushings (often failing around 60-100k miles), air suspension struts (typically needing replacement by 100k miles), water pump/thermostat, and PCV valve replacement. Low-mileage examples (under 50k) are considered excellent buys, while 200k-mile cars are described as ticking time bombs unless the buyer is prepared for major repair bills.
The 4.0T turbo oil screen recall is a defining event for this generation: owners who experienced turbo failure before the recall express frustration, while those covered by it feel significant relief. The recall reportedly extends warranty coverage on the turbo/strainer system to 125k miles. Owners note the revised strainer part is supposed to solve the blockage issue. One owner with 174k miles on a 4.0T reported only replacing a front air strut and the turbo oil screen in five years of ownership, showing these cars can be reliable with proper maintenance. The 2013 A8 L W12 was purchased new for $149k and described as "the most reliable engine Audi ever made" by one owner, though repair costs if something fails are extreme. Owners of the 3.0T report the engine can reach 300k miles if not neglected. Analysis based on approximately 28 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 6 | 3 | vehicle speed control |
| 2016 | 20 | 4 | engine |
| 2015 | 61 | 5 | engine |
| 2014 | 36 | 5 | engine |
| 2013 | 96 | 6 | engine |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
2017 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system:fuel railcampaign 19V035000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
2017 · structure:body:hoodcampaign 20V397000
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.
2017 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 22V178000
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.
2016 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system:fuel railcampaign 19V035000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
2016 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 19V057000
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.
2016 · structure:body:hoodcampaign 20V397000
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.
2016 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 22V178000
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.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 18V430000
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.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system:fuel railcampaign 19V035000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 19V057000
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.
2015 · structure:body:hoodcampaign 20V397000
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.
2015 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 22V178000
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.
2 more recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.