2015 Audi RS7

The 2015 Audi RS7 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its sleek design, powerful engine, and engaging driving experience. The sole engine option for the 2015 RS7 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 560 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Owners often praise the RS7 for its exceptional acceleration, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include higher running costs associated with performance vehicles and some reported issues with certain components.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 TFSI

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature turbocharger failure is a known issue. Symptoms include a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine, and potential check engine lights. This issue is often attributed to oil supply problems to the turbochargers.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger(s) and addressing the oil supply issue. This may involve inspecting and cleaning or replacing oil lines and check valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ depending on if one or both turbos need replacement and the shop performing the work.
• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil separator, also known as the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve, can fail. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, rough idling, and potential check engine lights. A faulty oil separator can cause vacuum leaks and disrupt the air/fuel mixture.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil separator assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are common in the 4.0T engines. Hoses, coolant pipes, and the coolant reservoir are susceptible to cracking. Low coolant levels can cause the engine to overheat, which can damage the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked or damaged coolant lines. Replace cracked coolant reservoir.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ depending on the specific part and difficulty of replacement.

Transmission

8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can experience failures. Symptoms include harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift, and potential transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the mechatronic unit. Some shops may be able to reprogram the existing unit if the failure is software-related.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can develop leaks in the air struts or the air compressor can fail. Symptoms include the car sitting lower on one or more corners, a failure to maintain ride height, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s) or the failed air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut, $1,000-$2,000+ for the compressor

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system can experience glitches, including freezing, slow response times, and occasional system resets.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. If hardware is the problem, the entire MMI unit needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update varies, MMI unit replacement $1,000 - $3,000+
• Parking Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors can fail, leading to false alarms or a complete lack of functionality.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty parking sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof will get stuck or not close.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000+

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2015 Audi RS7, while offering exhilarating performance and luxury, can present owners with several potential issues. Engine issues, particularly those related to the turbochargers and oil separator, can be costly to address. Transmission problems, specifically with the mechatronic unit, are also a concern. Air suspension problems can lead to expensive repairs as well. Electrical glitches, though less severe, can be frustrating. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase. Conducting a thorough inspection and obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.