2016 Audi S7

The 2016 Audi S7 is a performance-oriented luxury sedan known for its sleek design, powerful engine, and comfortable interior. It is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 450 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a 7-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the S7 for its acceleration, handling, and overall driving experience. Some common dislikes include the car’s relatively high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.0L TFSI V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Premature wear or failure of the turbocharger(s) can occur, particularly in earlier models.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, oil consumption, check engine light. The oil separator can fail, leading to vacuum leaks and oil being drawn into the intake manifold.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil separator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant warning, visible coolant leaks, engine overheating. Coolant leaks can occur from various locations, including the coolant reservoir, hoses, and water pump.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak, replacing hoses, the reservoir, or water pump as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S-Tronic Dual-Clutch

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting, difficulty engaging gears, transmission malfunction warning. The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic system, can fail.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, jerky engagement, shuddering. Clutch wear is normal but can be accelerated by aggressive driving.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car will not raise or lower, suspension malfunction warning, car sitting unevenly. The air suspension compressor is used to keep the air struts inflated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Car sits unevenly, hissing sound coming from the suspension, the car will not raise or lower. Air suspension struts can leak over time, causing the vehicle to sit lower or unevenly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Excessive drain can be caused by a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain, which may involve replacing a module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof stuck open or closed, excessive noise, water leaks. Problems can arise with the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate GPS location, failure to load maps, system freezing.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the navigation module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Audi S7, while a desirable vehicle, can be prone to some potentially costly issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and suspension systems. Turbocharger failures, mechatronic unit problems, and air suspension issues can lead to significant repair bills. Electrical and interior issues, while less frequent, can also be a source of frustration. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering the purchase of a used 2016 Audi S7. Performing a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.