2018 Audi S4
Only 7 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 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 0 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 5 |
| 1993 | 16 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 1 |
| 1996 | 0 |
| 2000 | 143 |
| 2001 | 87 |
| 2002 | 22 |
| 2003 | 1 |
| 2004 | 29 |
| 2005 | 43 |
| 2006 | 30 |
| 2007 | 13 |
| 2008 | 4 |
| 2009 | 0 |
| 2010 | 60 |
| 2011 | 26 |
| 2012 | 22 |
| 2013 | 32 |
| 2014 | 17 |
| 2015 | 1 |
| 2018 | 7 |
| 2019 | 2 |
| 2020 | 16 |
| 2021 | 2 |
| 2022 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 7 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Water pump defect for the 3.0L ea839 turbo engine found across many Porsche and Audi models. Defect causes damage to vacuum lines, thermostat, and can eventually lead to engine failure if not resolved.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250606
My 2018 Audi S4 has a catastrophic engine failure issue and this is common with the EA839 engine. There is a knocking in the motor that is caused by internal engine parts (rocker arms needle bearings) becoming loose and dislodged.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250313
PCV housing and lines failed. Caused pressure to build up thus shooting off the oil cap shooting oil everywhere! in addition to that it is a huge fire hazard considering the turbo is right next to it.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240407
1 of 7 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
WHEN DRIVING IN MANUAL MODE AND TRANSITION FROM ON THE THROTTLE TO OFF-THROTTLE, THERE IS A 1-2 SECOND DELAY BEFORE THE ENGINE STOPS ACCELERATING AND TRANSITIONS TO DECELERATION.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171128
1 of 7 total reports mentions: suspension.
1 of 7 total reports mentions: structure.
1 of 7 total reports mentions: service brakes.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2018 S5 Cabriolet, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, S4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, and 2017-2018 A4 Sedan and A4 Allroad vehicles.
Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will install cable ties to the harness, free of charge. The recall began September 9, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's number for this recall is 74D9.
Campaign 19V547000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the connecting cable and either the heating mat or entire seat cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
Campaign 21V874000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Audi S4 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V547000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V874000 (air bags, seats) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Audi S4 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 S4?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Audi S4 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.