2018 Audi RS7

The 2018 Audi RS7 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its sleek design and powerful engine. The standard engine is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 560 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. There is also the RS7 Performance model, which utilizes the same engine, but is tuned to produce 605 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the RS7 for its exhilarating acceleration, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some common complaints include high maintenance costs and potential reliability issues.

Engine

4.0-liter Twin-Turbocharged V8 (560 hp/516 lb-ft & 605 hp/553 lb-ft)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Can also be caused by oil starvation due to clogged oil screen on the turbo.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger and address any oil supply issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and turbocharger lines.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Sweet smell, coolant spots under car, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water pump or leaking coolant line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially when cold. Hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. If not, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (Software Update) - $6,000+ (Valve Body/Rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor noise, suspension malfunction warning light. Can be caused by a leaking air strut or a faulty compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut or faulty compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut or compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, unresponsive touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software update, reset the system, or replace the faulty unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2,000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car Battery Drains very quickly while the car is off.
  • Solution: There can be many root causes of this issue, best to take it to a dealership to get diagnosed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof does not open, close, or seal properly. It can often get stuck or make noises.
  • Solution: Lubricate tracks, replace motor, or replace damaged/broken components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 Audi RS7 offers impressive performance and luxury, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. The most concerning issues relate to the engine (turbocharger failures, oil leaks) and the air suspension. These repairs can be costly, potentially running into several thousand dollars. Electrical issues with the infotainment system can also be frustrating. While the RS7 is a desirable vehicle, prospective buyers should factor in potential maintenance costs and carefully inspect the car before purchase.