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Audi · Luxury · 2006–2011

Audi S8 D3

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Audi S8 D3 is available with 2 engine variants — from 435 to 570 hp.

5.2L V10 FSI · Benziner· 450 PS
2006 2010
Stay Away! 11 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
S8 · Benziner· 450 PS
2006 2010
Stay Away! 11 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Audi 5.2L V10 FSI (Benziner, 450 PS) has the BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 11 known weaknesses.

The Audi S8 (Benziner, 450 PS) has the BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 11 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Air Suspension: Air Bellow and Compressor Failure

The Adaptive Air Suspension (AAS) on the S8 D3 suffers from cracked air bellows and weakening compressors. Vehicle sags after standing. A single air spring costs €350–1,000; the compressor €300–900.

Symptoms: Vehicle sits too low after parking, uneven ride height, compressor running continuously, 'Air Suspension: System Fault' warning
from 120,000 km
Ad air spring S8 D3 4E front rearsupercharger air suspension A8 D3 4E0616007CNiveauregulierung A8 D3 springbalg
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Above Average
10 complaints · 2006–2011
Visibility
5
Wipers & Visibility
2
Cruise Control
2
Body Structure
1
Electrical
1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Visibility (5 complaints)
⚠ Wipers & Visibility (2 complaints)
⚠ Cruise Control (2 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 18 weaknesses have been documented for the Audi S8 D3 (2006–2011) — 11 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI). Typical issues affect Suspension, Gearbox, Electronics, Brakes.

S8 (BUJ, 2006–2010) — Stay Away!: Chain tensioner pressure loss (4 timing chains), R-Tronic hydraulic actuator / hydraulic accumulator defective, Coolant expansion tank cracks — fire risk (Recall 2019). Power: 450 PS.

What to watch out for with the Audi S8? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Audi S8 D3 have? +
The Audi S8 D3 has 11 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Audi S8 D3? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI). Problem engine: BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI) — stay away!
Which Audi S8 D3 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Audi S8 D3 — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} Same V10 as the S6 C6, but in the flagship sedan. Even more absurd, even heavier, even more expensive to maintain. Cold start sounds like a sports car, drives like a yacht with a rocket engine. Dirt cheap used — the running costs explain why.
Is the Audi S8 D3 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Audi S8 D3 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Audi S8 D3? +
The Audi S8 D3 is available with engine variants from 435 to 570 hp. Petrol: BUJ (5.2L V10 FSI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee