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Audi S7 Problems

The Audi S7 is a high-performance luxury fastback sedan produced since 2012, combining elegant design with potent twin-turbo V8 power. Producing 450-520 horsepower depending on generation, the S7 delivers sports car acceleration in a practical four-door body. With 172 complaints and zero deaths on record, the S7 has proven reasonably dependable while offering exceptional capability, though turbo V8 complexity adds to ownership costs.

172
Total Complaints
37
Total Recalls
12
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2016 2014 2013
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2015

Common Problem Categories

Engine 72
Electrical System 24
Power Train 16
Forward Collision Avoidance 14
Fuel/propulsion System 10

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 0 1 0 0 Good
2024 0 1 0 0 Good
2023 0 1 0 0 Good
2022 0 3 0 0 Good
2021 10 10 0 0 Average
2020 14 6 0 0 Average
2018 0 1 0 0 Good
2017 24 2 0 0 Below Average
2016 44 2 0 6 Avoid
2015 2 3 0 0 Good
2014 40 4 0 0 Avoid
2013 38 3 0 0 Avoid

Audi S7 Years to Avoid

The 2016 S7 generated the most complaints, with owners reporting turbocharger failures, oil consumption issues, and problems with the dual-clutch transmission under certain driving conditions. The 4.0T engine's turbos operate at high temperatures and can fail prematurely without proper warm-up and cool-down procedures.

Best Audi S7 Years

The 2015 S7 represents a sweet spot with refined first-generation hardware before some 2016 issues emerged. Alternatively, the 2019+ models with the updated 2.9T engine offer improved efficiency and potentially better long-term reliability with fewer turbo concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Audi S7 reliable?

The S7 is reasonably reliable for a high-performance luxury car. The 4.0T V8 is stout but requires attentive maintenance. Budget for potential turbo and transmission service on higher-mileage examples.

What are common S7 problems?

Common issues include turbocharger failures (particularly with insufficient warm-up time), mechatronic unit problems in the S-tronic transmission, and carbon buildup on intake valves requiring periodic cleaning.

How expensive is S7 maintenance?

Budget ,000-4,000 annually for maintenance and minor repairs. Major services including transmission fluid and turbo-related work can add substantially. Premium fuel is required.

How does the S7 compare to the RS7?

The RS7 adds approximately 100 horsepower and more aggressive styling, but costs significantly more to purchase and maintain. The S7 offers 90% of the experience at lower cost and with slightly better everyday manners.