2017 Audi RS7

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2017 Audi RS7, categorized by major components. The 2017 Audi RS7 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its sleek design and powerful engine. It comes standard with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 560 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The RS7 Performance variant boosts this to 605 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the RS7 for its acceleration, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Some criticisms include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential reliability concerns.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light. In severe cases, oil leaks can occur.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings. Leaks often originate from valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, check engine light, oil consumption increases.
  • Solution: PCV valve replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. Can be more pronounced when cold.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid flush, $2,000 - $5,000+ for valve body/rebuild.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, transmission malfunction warnings on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Mechatronic unit (the transmission control module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor running frequently, suspension malfunction warnings. Leaks often occur in the air struts or air lines.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air strut(s) or repair/replace air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension not raising or lowering, suspension malfunction warnings, compressor not running.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software update (if available). In some cases, the MMI unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software updates, $1,000 - $3,000+ for MMI unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight or within a few days of sitting, difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket electronics, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Failure (LED)
  • Description/Symptoms: Individual LEDs within the headlight failing, causing uneven or dim lighting.
  • Solution: Headlight assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Inspect and lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. If necessary, replace the sunroof motor or repair damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Audi RS7, while offering thrilling performance and luxury, can present owners with several potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the turbochargers and oil leaks, can be costly to address. Transmission issues, especially concerning rough shifting and the Mechatronic unit, are also significant concerns. Air suspension problems, electrical glitches, and sunroof malfunctions add to the list. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with potential costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousands of dollars. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in Audi vehicles. It is also important to check the car’s maintenance history and be prepared for potentially high maintenance and repair costs associated with a high-performance vehicle like the RS7.