Audi S4 reliability: common problems by model year

Across 6 model years, the Audi S4 has 152 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and engine and engine cooling. 2004 drew the most complaints (58), 2019 the fewest (2).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Audi S4 vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $16,925–$34,160.

Which S4 years have the most problems?

Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.

Highest: 2004 (58 complaints). Lowest: 2019 (2).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

Sentiment is deeply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on owner expectations and financial preparedness. For the B8/B8.5 generation (circa 2010-2016) with the supercharged 3.0T V6, feedback is overwhelmingly positive, praising the engine as a "beas

• B6/B7 (4.2L V8) Generation:
• Timing chain guide failure: Requires engine-out service, catastrophic if failed, guides can crack causing chain slack. Frequency: very frequent.
• General high cost of maintenance: Engine-out service needed for many repairs, expensive parts. Frequency: very frequent.
• B8/B8.5 & B9 (3.0T V6) Generations:
• High maintenance and repair costs: Brake jobs ($1,500+), control arms, water pumps, thermostats, PCV valves. Frequency: very frequent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the S4. Individual model years are broken down above.