2008 Audi S8

The 2008 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan that boasts a powerful V10 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. For the 2008 model year, the S8 was only offered with a 5.2-liter V10 engine producing 450 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the car’s strong acceleration, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common complaints revolve around high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to failure, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

5.2L V10

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil cooler lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is necessary. For oil cooler lines, replacement is usually the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 5.2L V10 are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased performance, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: A manual cleaning of the intake valves or a chemical induction service can remove the carbon buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body can experience wear and tear, leading to rough or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body is required. In severe cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience leaks in the air struts or failure of the air compressor. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a saggy ride, or a “suspension fault” warning light.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts or the faulty air compressor is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2008 Audi S8 has a complex electrical system, which can lead to parasitic battery drain. This can result in a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the battery drain. This may involve checking various electronic modules and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• MMI (Multi Media Interface) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI system controls various functions in the car, including navigation, audio, and climate control. The MMI can have issues such as freezing, failure to boot, or display problems.
  • Solution: Depending on the issue, a software update, replacement of the MMI control unit, or repair of the display screen may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Failure (Adaptive Headlights)
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights, which swivel to follow the road, can experience motor failure or sensor malfunctions. Symptoms include headlights not swiveling, error messages, or complete headlight failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty headlight assembly or repairing the motor/sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof can have issues closing or opening, and the motor can fail.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor and or realigning the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Audi S8 offers impressive performance and luxury, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential issues associated with this model. Engine oil leaks and carbon buildup are common concerns with the V10 engine. The transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems are also potential sources of problems. Overall, owning a 2008 Audi S8 can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s important to be prepared for potentially high maintenance and repair costs. The severity of the potential issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost to fix these issues can vary widely depending on the specific problem.