2014 Audi S4

The 2014 Audi S4 is a high-performance sedan that is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine that produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The S4 is known for its sharp handling, quick acceleration, and luxurious interior. However, it has also been known to have some issues.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged V6

• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idling, and hesitation during acceleration
  • Solution: Clean the intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, and engine damage
  • Solution: Replace the water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Wastegate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, reduced engine power, and check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger wastegate
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficult Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears grind or pop out of place
  • Solution: Adjust or lubricate the linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission

• Clutch Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering during acceleration, and check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the clutch pack(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission doesn’t shift, shifts into neutral while driving, and check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, even when the car is not in use
  • Solution: Identify and correct the source of the battery drain (e.g., faulty alternator, parasitic draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, engine performance issues, and electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Update the ECU software
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors won’t lock or unlock, or locks malfunction
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Spoiler Vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear spoiler rattles or vibrates at high speeds
  • Solution: Install a spoiler support bracket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Lag
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system is slow to respond or freezes
  • Solution: Update the infotainment system software
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None (software update is usually free)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heated Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heated seats do not heat up or heat unevenly
  • Solution: Replace the heating element or control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control fan doesn’t work or works intermittently
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2014 Audi S4 is a well-built and reliable vehicle. However, it does have some issues that can be costly to repair. The most serious issues include turbocharger wastegate malfunctions, clutch pack failures, and mechatronic unit failures. These issues can lead to poor engine performance, transmission problems, and even catastrophic engine damage. However, most of the other issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost.