2017 Audi A8 Quattro

The 2017 Audi A8 Quattro is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and technology. Available engine options include a 3.0L Supercharged V6 (333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque), a 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (450 hp and 444 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L W12 (500 hp and 463 lb-ft of torque). The A8 is praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology features. Some common criticisms include its somewhat dated infotainment system compared to newer models and potentially high maintenance costs. All engine options are paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the thermostat housing, leading to low coolant levels and potential overheating. Visible coolant pooling under the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the supercharger, loss of power, and potential diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to supercharger performance.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the turbocharger seals, leading to oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, and potential diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Solution: Replace the affected turbocharger(s) and associated gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the PCV system.
  • Solution: Replace the oil separator/PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L W12

• High Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent need to add engine oil between services.
  • Solution: Could be any number of issues depending on where the leak is occuring. Replace the oil separator/PCV valve. Valve stem seals could also be an issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic (All Engine Options)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and potential diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission performance.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, stalling, and potential diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting unevenly, ride height faults, and a non-functional air suspension system. The compressor may run constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, ride height faults, and a hissing sound from the air struts.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the MMI (Multi Media Interface) control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery draining overnight or within a short period, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (often caused by faulty modules or wiring).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight LED Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more LEDs in the headlights not functioning, resulting in reduced visibility and a potential safety hazard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof making a loud grinding or popping noise when opening/closing. Possible leaks when closed.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or overheating.
  • Solution: Replace faulty seat heater elements or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the MMI (Multi Media Interface) control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Audi A8 Quattro, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, is prone to some notable issues, especially as it ages. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.0L Supercharged V6 and the 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, can be expensive to repair. The air suspension system and electrical glitches can also lead to significant costs. Valve body issues are also a common issue. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in higher maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.