🇩🇪 Deutsch
Audi · Mid-Size · 2008–2016

Audi S4 B8

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Body Variants

The Audi S4 B8 is available as Limousine and Avant — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
1 Engines
view Limousine →
Avant
1 Engines
view Avant →

Generations

Engine Overview

engines.variants_same_ps

3.0L TFSI V6 · Benziner· 333 PS
2009 2016
Be Careful 15 weaknesses
S4 · Benziner· 333 PS
2009 2016
Be Careful 15 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Audi 3.0L TFSI V6 (Benziner, 333 PS) has the CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 15 known weaknesses.

The Audi S4 (Benziner, 333 PS) has the CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 15 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
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

Ford Mondeo CD391

Mittelklasse (2014–2022)

Same Segment

VW Passat B8

Mittelklasse (2014–2019)

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)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 29 weaknesses have been documented for the Audi S4 B8 (2008–2016) — 15 engine-related and 14 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Other, Rust.

S4 (CAKA, 2009–2016) — Be Careful: Internal intercooler in supercharger leaking, High-pressure pump failure with swarf distribution, Timing chain rattles on cold start. Power: 333 PS.

What to watch out for with the Audi S4? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Audi S4 B8 have? +
The Audi S4 B8 has 15 known engine weaknesses and 14 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Audi S4 B8? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6).
Which Audi S4 B8 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Audi S4 B8 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 replaces the NA V8. Faster? Yes. More reliable? Significantly. More boring? Also yes. The supercharger whine has its own charm, but the sound doesn't touch the predecessor's high-revving V8. With the ZF eight-speed, one of Audi's most reliable powertrains.
Is the Audi S4 B8 worth buying used? +
The Audi S4 B8 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Audi S4 B8? +
The Audi S4 B8 is available with engine variants from 333 to 333 hp. Petrol: CAKA (3.0L TFSI V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee