2017 Audi S8

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2017 Audi S8, categorized by component and engine/transmission options. The 2017 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, refined interior, and comfortable ride. It features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 605 horsepower and 517 lb-ft of torque (in the S8 Plus trim). While owners generally praise its acceleration, handling, and luxurious features, some common complaints revolve around reliability, particularly with the complex electronics and air suspension system. Fuel economy is typically considered poor, and repair costs can be high due to the specialized parts and labor required.

Engine

4.0L TFSI V8

• Oil Separator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, smoking from the exhaust, rough idling. Often accompanied by a check engine light and related fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil separator. Sometimes it can also cause valve cover leaks that need to be addressed as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbochargers, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s). Requires specialized knowledge due to the location of the turbos.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell. Common leak points include the coolant hoses, water pump, and thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears, hesitation when accelerating, especially from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may help. If the problems persist, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) - $3000+ (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of gear engagement, transmission malfunction warning light, inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Mechatronic unit (the transmission control unit integrated within the transmission).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, “Suspension Fault” warning light, the compressor running constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor. It is also critical to diagnose and address any air leaks in the system, as these can cause the compressor to overwork and fail prematurely.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to compressor failure, the vehicle may sit low, especially after sitting overnight. A hissing sound may be heard near the affected strut.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacement of the MMI control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2000+ (MMI Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard, including those related to the ABS, stability control, parking sensors, and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific sensor that is malfunctioning and replacing it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is left unused for a few days. Difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Identify and eliminate the parasitic drain. This may involve tracing the circuit with a multimeter to find the component drawing power when the car is off.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlights flickering or failing, adaptive headlight malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly or individual components within the headlight.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making excessive noise, leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving or moving erratically, clicking noises from the seat motors.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty seat motor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Audi S8 offers impressive performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the reported issues, particularly those relating to the engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost of repairs can be substantial due to the specialized parts and labor required. Potential owners should perform a thorough inspection, review the vehicle’s maintenance history, and consider obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic familiar with Audi vehicles.