🇩🇪 Deutsch
Audi · Mid-Size · 2012–2015

Audi RS4 B8

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Body Variants

The Audi RS4 B8 is available as Limousine and Avant — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
2 Engines 1× Stay Away!
view Limousine →
Avant
2 Engines 1× Stay Away!
view Avant →

Generations

Engine Overview

The Audi RS4 B8 is available with one engine variant at 333 hp.

RS4 · Benziner· 450 PS
2012 2015
Stay Away! 9 weaknesses

The Audi RS4 (Benziner, 450 PS) has the CFSA (4.2L FSI V8) — rated: "Stay Away!", 9 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖S Tronic DL501 Mechatronics Failure

The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox DL501 is prone to mechatronics failures. Typical: judder on pull-away, delayed gear changes or complete failure. Repair costs €3,000–5,000, a new unit up to €11,000.

Symptoms: Judder engaging D or R, delayed or missing gear changes, gearbox fault message, vehicle entering limp-home mode
from 90,000 km
Ad DL501 MechatronikS-Tronic 0B5 repairsatztransmission fluid DL501
 High
✖Rear sport differential failure

The optional rear sport differential can fail after 80,000–100,000 km. A repair bill of over €3,000 is then to be expected. Regular oil changes extend service life.

Symptoms: Noises from the rear axle area when cornering, uneven rear torque distribution perceptible
from 90,000 km
Ad Sport-differential Audi RS4 B8Hinterachsgearbox RS4 8Kdifferentialöl Sport-differential RS4
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
162 complaints · 2008–2016
Powertrain
89
Steering
27
Engine
17
Electrical
14
Engine & Cooling
11

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (89 complaints)
⚠ Steering (27 complaints)
⚠ Engine (17 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

BMW 4er F32

Mittelklasse (2013–2020)

Same Segment

BMW 3er F30

Mittelklasse (2012–2019)

Same Segment

Mazda 6 GJ

Mittelklasse (2012–2024)

Same Segment

Toyota Camry XV50

Mittelklasse (2012–2017)

Same Segment

Hyundai i40 VF

Mittelklasse (2011–2019)

Same Segment

Kia Optima TF

Mittelklasse (2010–2015)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 43 weaknesses have been documented for the Audi RS4 B8 (2012–2015) — 24 engine-related and 19 vehicle-related. One problem engine: CFSA (4.2L FSI V8). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Other, Rust.

What to watch out for with the Audi RS4? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Audi RS4 B8 have? +
The Audi RS4 B8 has 24 known engine weaknesses and 19 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Audi RS4 B8? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the CFSA (4.2L FSI V8). Problem engine: CFSA (4.2L FSI V8) — stay away!
Which Audi RS4 B8 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Audi RS4 B8 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} 450 hp naturally aspirated V8 at 8,250 rpm in a wagon. After the B7, the second and last generation with a high-revving V8. Heavier and less raw than the B7, more liveable in return. The auto fits better than expected — shift speed makes the loss of the manual bearable.
Is the Audi RS4 B8 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Audi RS4 B8 — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Audi RS4 B8? +
The Audi RS4 B8 is available with engine variants from 333 to 450 hp. Petrol: CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6), CFSA (4.2L FSI V8).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee