2012 Audi S4

The 2012 Audi S4 is a performance-oriented sedan that offers a blend of luxury and sportiness. The sole engine option for this year is the supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6, producing 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Owners generally praise the S4 for its responsive engine, engaging driving dynamics, and comfortable interior. However, some common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury brands and potential reliability issues associated with the supercharger and dual-clutch transmission.

Engine

3.0 TFSI V6

• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, potential check engine light. This issue can be related to the supercharger clutch or the supercharger itself.
  • Solution: Replacement of the supercharger clutch or the entire supercharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, “Low Coolant” warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Housing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, check engine light. Often cracks or leaks at the seams.
  • Solution: Replacement of the thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, oil consumption, check engine light. Can cause vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch (DSG)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, jerky movements, failure to engage gears, transmission malfunction warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, harsh shifting, difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual No Issues Found

Suspension

• Sport Differential Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises from the rear, erratic handling, fault codes.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sport differential.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+ (depending on which arms and bushings)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/MMI System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system rebooting, inability to control functions.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the MMI unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HID Headlight Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight flickering or not turning on at all, error message on the dash.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HID bulb or ballast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making noises when opening or closing, leaking water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working, only heating partially, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Audi S4, while a desirable performance sedan, has some known reliability concerns that potential buyers should be aware of. Issues with the supercharger, water pump, PCV valve, and thermostat housing on the engine side are fairly common. The S tronic transmission can also be problematic, especially with the mechatronic unit and clutch packs. Suspension and electrical issues can also occur, adding to the overall maintenance costs. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Before purchasing, a thorough inspection and review of maintenance records is highly recommended.