Audi S8 reliability: common problems by model year
Across 3 model years, the Audi S8 has 10 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 13 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and power train. 2015 drew the most complaints (6), 2021 the fewest (1).
3
Model years tracked
10
Owner complaints
13
Recalls
3
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Audi S8 vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $122,575–$136,269.
Which S8 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.
Owner sentiment is strongly positive regarding the vehicle's core proposition as a high-performance luxury sedan, described as a "sleeper rocket with insane comfort" and "the best balance of comfort and performance possible." The twin-turbo 4.0L V8 (EA825) eng
Extremely high maintenance and repair costs: Routine service, tires, and brakes are very expensive; major repairs (turbos, transmission, engine mounts) can cost $5,000-$15,000+. Frequency: very frequent.
Turbocharger failure due to oil screen blockage: A known defect in the D4 generation 4.0T engine where a restrictive oil screen can starve the turbos of oil, leading to catastrophic failure. Subject to a recall/service action (TSB 2044640). Frequency: very frequent.
Faulty Belt Starter Generator (BSG): Affects D5 generation models (and other Audis) as part of "Emissions Service Action 27BQ"; the unit can fail without warning around 40,000 miles. Replacement is covered by recall. Frequency: recurrent.
Air suspension reliability concerns: Noted as a potential high-cost failure point as the vehicle ages, with repairs described as "horrendous." Frequency: recurrent.
Early rocker arm issues (EA825 engine): Affected some early D5 generation engines; revised parts were implemented in late 2018. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the S8. Individual model years are broken down above.