Audi S7

In the 3.0 TDI EA897 camshafts fracture due to material defects — affecting all four camshafts of the V6. A fracture inevitably causes engine damage. Audi acknowledged the issue via TPI 2043172.

Symptoms: Ticking or knocking engine noises beyond normal diesel sounds, then power loss and engine failure

The 3.0 TDI is prone to timing chain elongation and tensioner wear. A chain jump causes pistons and valves to collide, causing total engine damage. Replacement requires 15–20 labour hours.

Symptoms: Rattling or knocking on cold start and under load, engine stumbling, warning light

Diesel-typical soot formation on the 3.0 TDI injectors leads to injection problems and increased wear. Fuel additives and premium diesel can delay the need for cleaning.

Symptoms: Rough idle, increased consumption, hesitation under load, power loss at higher rpm

The 3.0 TDI dual-mass flywheel wears faster under high torque, especially with frequent city driving and low-rpm operation. Replacement is cost-intensive.

Symptoms: Dull clunking noises on take-off and gear changes, vibrations at idle, rough running when lifting off the throttle

The 3.0 TDI diesel particulate filter clogs with frequent short-trip use as the regeneration temperature is not reached. After software updates the DPF loading was sometimes increased.

Symptoms: Power loss, increased consumption, limp mode, DPF warning light, increased oil dilution smell

On the S7 4K, defective ride height sensors in the air suspension are reported, causing system fault messages. Usually individual sensors that need replacing.

The 48V mild-hybrid system with belt-driven starter-generator is a potential weak point in the S7 4K. Audi granted a 7-year extended warranty on the BSG, which is telling.