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2013 Audi S8

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2013 Audi S8, categorized by system, following your specified format.

The 2013 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan boasting a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine delivers approximately 520 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option is an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the S8 for its combination of exhilarating performance, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include the higher maintenance costs associated with a high-performance vehicle and the complexity of the electronics, which can sometimes lead to issues.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, reduced power, check engine light. Oil leaks can also be present around the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s). It’s often recommended to replace both turbos simultaneously to ensure even performance and avoid future issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on replacing one or both, and independent shop vs. dealership)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Separator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, and potential oil leaks. Can cause the PCV system to malfunction.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil separator (also known as the PCV valve/oil trap).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level dropping, overheating, sweet smell near the engine. Leaks often originate from plastic coolant pipes or the water pump.
    • Solution: Locate and repair or replace the leaking component. Common replacements are the coolant pipes, water pump, thermostat housing and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on the location and component)
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission malfunction warnings.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the Mechatronic unit (the transmission control unit integrated inside the transmission). Flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter may resolve minor issues, but a faulty Mechatronic unit typically requires replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Stalling may occur.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Car sitting lower than normal, especially on one side, longer time to reach proper ride height, “Air Suspension Fault” warning light. The compressor may run excessively or not at all.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor. Check for leaks in the air lines and struts as well.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Same as compressor failure, car sagging overnight, hissing sound near the struts.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, needing to jump-start the car frequently. Often caused by a parasitic drain.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty control modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • MMI (Multi Media Interface) Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system reboots, unresponsive buttons, navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Software update, component replacement (MMI control unit, screen). In some cases, a hard reset may temporarily resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, etc.)
    • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, failure to activate, error messages.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to find the failed sensor(s) and then replace them
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Adaptive Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling properly, error messages on the dashboard, headlights stuck in one position.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the headlight leveling motors or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, binding or creaking noises, water leaks.
    • Solution: Lubricate tracks, repair or replace damaged components (motor, cables, seals).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 Audi S8, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can present owners with a range of issues. The most severe and costly problems tend to revolve around the engine (turbocharger failure), transmission (Mechatronic unit), and air suspension. Electrical issues with the MMI system and battery drain are also relatively common. Maintenance costs can be high due to the complexity of the vehicle and the cost of replacement parts. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Audi vehicles and be prepared for potentially significant repair expenses.

Audi, S8
Audi S8 2013
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