2018 Audi S3
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 5
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2018
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2018: 5 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 53 |
| 2016 | 14 |
| 2017 | 9 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 2 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 0 |
| 2022 | 2 |
| 2023 | 0 |
| 2024 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
2 of 5 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
Car doesn't engage gear or "Jumps" When reverse (R) is selected.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-12-27
Fuel/propulsion system
2 of 5 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
Having the same issue as the NHTSA Part 573 Safety Recall Report, 24V-110. And, similar to NHTSA 16V647 associated with the Audi Safety Recall 20Y5 - Suction Pump. Apparently there is no recall for my S3, only the A3.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-10-25
A) Audi of central houston sold us 2018 S3 on AUG13, 2018 with: 1) delaminating windshield creating a major safety hazard 2) defective wiper function nb: windshield was replacement on dec 31, 2019 when we had actually requested replacement of...
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-01-09
Also filed under Visibility/wiper
Visibility/wiper
1 of 5 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.
Air bags
1 of 5 total reports mentions: air bags.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2021-12-23Air bags21V198000 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.
-
I
2023-12-12Recall queryClosed 2024-07-01 Fuel Leak due to Suction Jet Pump Failure within Fuel Tank (Remedy Effectiveness of Recall 16V647)
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Audi S3 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility/wiper: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V198000 · Air bags
FAQ
- Is the 2018 Audi S3 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi S3?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 Audi S3 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.