2014 Audi S8

The 2014 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 520 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option is an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the S8 for its impressive acceleration, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include expensive maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential issues with the air suspension.

Engine

4.0L TFSI V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on whether one or both turbos need replacement and if performed by an independent shop or dealership)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, check engine light, oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the oil separator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell. Common leak points include the water pump and thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components (water pump, thermostat, hoses, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a software update may temporarily improve the issue, but replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of drive, transmission stuck in gear, inability to shift.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, suspension warning light, compressor running constantly or not at all, sagging. Problems can stem from the air struts, the compressor, or the air lines.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s), compressor, or repair air leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut (plus labor) or $800-$1500 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, electrical systems malfunctioning. Can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic drain and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause and complexity of repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/MMI System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response times, failure to boot, GPS issues.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the MMI unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling correctly, error message on the dashboard, headlights pointing in the wrong direction.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the headlight control unit or headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the specific issue and parts needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing, getting stuck, making grinding noise, water leaks
  • Solution: Replace sunroof motor, track, or seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Audi S8 offers thrilling performance and luxury, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues reported. Engine issues, particularly related to the turbochargers and oil separator, can be costly. The transmission may experience valve body or mechatronic unit failure, also requiring significant expense to repair. Air suspension problems are also a frequent concern. While not every S8 will experience these issues, the potential for high repair costs should be considered. Prior maintenance records and a pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.