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2001 Audi S4

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2001 Audi S4 is a performance-oriented sedan that offers a blend of luxury and sporty driving dynamics. It primarily features a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing around 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While a smaller naturally aspirated V6 was available in the A4, the S4 exclusively utilized the 2.7T. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the S4’s powerful engine, quattro all-wheel-drive system, and understated styling. Common complaints revolve around the age of the vehicle and the associated maintenance costs, particularly concerning the complex turbocharging system and potential electrical gremlins. Parts availability and high labor costs contribute to the overall cost of ownership.

Engine

2.7T Twin-Turbo V6

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling or whining noises from the engine, oil leaks, and potential check engine light illumination. Failure often occurs due to oil starvation or bearing wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on whether one or both turbos need replacement and if aftermarket upgrades are used)
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, complete engine failure.
    • Solution: Timing belt replacement, often including water pump, tensioner, and other related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ (includes parts and labor for a comprehensive service)
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible coolant drips. Common leak points include the coolant reservoir, thermostat housing, and various hoses. The “Y” hoses and the after-run coolant pump are particularly prone to failure.
    • Solution: Replacement of leaking components, pressure testing the cooling system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the specific component and labor involved)
  • Vacuum Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and potential check engine light illumination (e.g., P0171, P0174).
    • Solution: Smoke testing the vacuum system to identify leaks, replacing cracked or damaged vacuum hoses and connectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (depending on the number and location of leaks)
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and turbocharger oil lines.
    • Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ (depending on the source and severity of the leak)

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking or making noise.
    • Solution: Clutch replacement, often including the pressure plate, throw-out bearing, and pilot bearing. Flywheel resurfacing or replacement may also be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into specific gears, especially 2nd and 3rd.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, including synchro replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

5-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and potential transmission slipping.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, erratic shifting behavior, transmission slipping, and potential limp mode activation.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, vague steering, and uneven tire wear. Front control arms are particularly prone to failure.
    • Solution: Control arm replacement, often including ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner (depending on the number of components replaced)
  • Shock Absorber/Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and visible oil leaks from the shocks/struts.
    • Solution: Shock absorber/strut replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per axle (depending on brand and labor)

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
    • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating correctly or falling into the door.
    • Solution: Window regulator replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • ABS Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, loss of ABS functionality.
    • Solution: ABS module repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Exterior

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking correctly with the remote or key.
    • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, motor failure, or leaks.
    • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, track repair, or seal replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Recalls

  • 01V146000

Summary The 2001 Audi S4, while offering a rewarding driving experience, presents a range of potential issues common in older, performance-oriented vehicles. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the turbochargers and automatic transmission, can be costly to address. Suspension and electrical issues also contribute to the overall ownership expense. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Due to the age of the vehicle, regular maintenance and thorough inspections are essential to prevent costly repairs.

Audi, S4
Audi S4 2001
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