2015 Audi S8

The 2015 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its impressive blend of power, comfort, and technology. It’s powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 520 horsepower and 481 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the S8’s rapid acceleration, luxurious interior, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Common dislikes include the high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs, as well as its subtle styling that doesn’t always reflect its performance capabilities.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, reduced power, check engine light. Failure can be gradual or sudden.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, particularly during startup. May also lead to rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil separator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant light, visible coolant leak under the vehicle. Often originates from plastic coolant pipes or the turbocharger coolant lines.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking coolant components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission replacement is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, particularly overnight, inability to adjust ride height, “Suspension Fault” warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to compressor failure; vehicle sagging, uneven ride height, and suspension warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MMI (Multi Media Interface) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, unresponsive buttons, screen blackouts, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the MMI control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining quickly, especially when the car is not in use, requiring frequent jump starts or battery replacements.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut-off component).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling properly, adaptive function not working, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the headlight control module or headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, excessive noise during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components (motor, tracks, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Audi S8 offers impressive performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues and their associated costs. Engine and transmission problems, particularly turbocharger failures and valve body issues, can be very expensive to repair. Suspension issues, specifically with the air suspension system, are also relatively common and costly. Electrical glitches, such as MMI malfunctions and battery drain, are also a concern. While some issues may be minor, others can lead to significant repair bills, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.