Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2014
Best: 2009 (few owner reports) · Best recent: 2021
8 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 8 model years, the Audi S8 has 42 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 28 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and visibility. 2013 drew the most complaints (13), 2021 the fewest (1).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Audi S8 vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $25,275–$65,999.
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: 2013 (13 complaints). Lowest: 2021 (1).
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) engine and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission are very frequently praised for their robust performance, smooth power delivery, and proven long-term reliability when properly maintained, with multiple reports of trouble-free operation beyond 100,000 miles, even on tuned vehicles.
Routine service, tires, and brakes are very expensive; major repairs (turbos, transmission, engine mounts) can cost $5,000-$15,000+.
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).
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.
Noted as a potential high-cost failure point as the vehicle ages, with repairs described as "horrendous.".
Affected some early D5 generation engines; revised parts were implemented in late 2018.
Owner insights cover all generations of the S8. Individual model years are broken down above.
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