2012 Audi A8 Quattro
2012 Audi A8 Quattro
Overview
The 2012 Audi A8 Quattro, a full-size luxury sedan, is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, especially considering its advanced technology and performance capabilities. It offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, powered by potent V6 and V8 engines. While most owners report a positive ownership experience, like any complex luxury vehicle, certain areas can occasionally present issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs for the 2012 model year.
Engine
3.0L TFSI V6 Supercharged
PCV Valve Failure
- Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, potential for oil leaks, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve assembly.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Supercharger Belt Wear
- Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the supercharger drive belt.
- Cost: $200 - $400
4.2L FSI V8
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic (8HP)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Adaptive Air Suspension
Air Spring Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ‘Air Suspension Malfunction’ warning light, uneven ride height.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or associated lines.
- Cost: $800 - $1500 per corner
Compressor Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to raise or lower the vehicle, constant running of the compressor, ‘Air Suspension Malfunction’ warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Cost: $700 - $1200
Electrical
Infotainment System (MMI)
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, navigation issues, audio problems.
- Solution: Software updates or resets. In some cases, module replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $200 - $1000+
Door Lock Actuators
Failure
- Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, intermittent operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Cost: $300 - $500 per door
Exterior
LED Headlights
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Seat Actuators
Failure
- Symptoms: Power seats not moving or adjusting correctly.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor or control module.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Audi A8 Quattro is a sophisticated luxury sedan that, for the most part, offers good reliability. The powertrain options, particularly the 3.0L TFSI V6, have some documented issues like PCV valve failures and supercharger belt wear, which are moderately costly to repair. The advanced adaptive air suspension is a common source of concern, with potential for leaks and compressor failures, representing a significant repair expense. Electrical gremlins within the MMI system and occasional door lock actuator failures are also noted. While not immune to problems, especially given its complexity, the A8 Quattro’s overall reliability is considered acceptable for its class, provided potential issues are addressed promptly.