2016 Audi S4

The 2016 Audi S4 is a performance-oriented sedan that offers a blend of luxury and sporty driving dynamics. It came standard with a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual or a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission was available. People appreciate the S4 for its responsive engine, comfortable interior, and overall driving experience. Common complaints include the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with a performance vehicle and some concerns about the reliability of certain components.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

• Thermostat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, temperature gauge reading high, coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating. Some owners have noted the plastic impeller on the water pump can fail.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump, often recommended to replace the thermostat at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, loss of power. Direct-injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves.
  • Solution: Carbon cleaning of the intake valves (e.g., walnut blasting).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S-Tronic Dual-Clutch

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, inability to select gears, error codes related to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the mechatronic unit (the transmission control unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idle, stalling, trouble starting, and possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the mass air flow sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response, software glitches, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery dies prematurely, especially if left sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to find parasitic drain, repair the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not closing, or opening correctly, or at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty motor or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2016 Audi S4, while offering a thrilling driving experience, is prone to certain issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Engine issues like thermostat and water pump failures, along with carbon buildup, can lead to significant expenses. The S-Tronic transmission’s mechatronic unit is a known weak point. Suspension components also wear and tear. Electrical problems are common, with issues related to the infotainment system. The severity of these issues varies, but owners should be prepared for the potential of higher maintenance costs associated with a performance vehicle.