The 2014 Audi S8 blends performance with luxury, offering a V8-powered sedan that accelerates with impressive speed while maintaining a refined and comfortable interior. Known for its power and advanced features, this full-sized luxury sedan has its share of complex systems that can lead to unique maintenance challenges as it ages. This article dives into the most common issues reported by 2014 Audi S8 owners, along with guidance on what to look for when buying a used model and insights into the overall cost of ownership.
Common Problems with the 2014 Audi S8
1. 4.0L TFSI V8 Engine Oil Consumption
One of the most frequent complaints regarding the 2014 Audi S8 is excessive oil consumption. The 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine is known to consume more oil than expected, especially with high mileage or aggressive driving. Many owners have reported the need to add oil frequently between scheduled oil changes, with some cars requiring top-ups every few thousand miles. This issue may stem from internal wear in the piston rings or valve seals, leading to oil burning in the combustion chamber.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms include a warning light for low oil, decreased engine performance, and, in extreme cases, visible blue smoke from the exhaust. Regularly checking oil levels and addressing the issue early can prevent more severe engine damage. Audi has not issued a recall, but some owners have found relief through dealership repairs, including seal and ring replacements—although these can be costly out of warranty.
2. Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
Due to the direct injection design of the 4.0L V8 engine, carbon buildup on the intake valves is a common issue. Over time, unburned fuel and oil vapors accumulate on the intake valves, which can lead to reduced performance, rough idling, and misfires. This buildup occurs because, in a direct injection engine, fuel does not wash over the intake valves as it would in a traditional port-injected engine.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of carbon buildup include rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and engine misfires, which may trigger the check engine light. Walnut blasting—a process of using crushed walnut shells to clean the valves—is the most effective solution to remove carbon deposits. Many owners find that cleaning the intake valves every 40,000 to 60,000 miles helps maintain engine efficiency and performance.
3. Turbocharger Failure and Related Cooling Issues
The twin-turbochargers on the 2014 S8 provide impressive power, but they also generate significant heat. Over time, the heat can lead to issues with the turbocharger components, including the intercoolers, hoses, and gaskets. Additionally, failures in the turbocharger cooling system can cause overheating, reduced power, and, ultimately, premature turbocharger wear or failure. Replacing turbochargers in an S8 is labor-intensive and costly, making this a serious concern for owners.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of turbocharger problems include a whining or whistling noise from the engine, a lack of power during acceleration, and, in severe cases, warning lights indicating overheating or low coolant levels. Regular coolant checks, as well as ensuring that the intercoolers and hoses are free from leaks, can help mitigate these issues. It’s also recommended to let the engine idle for a short time before shutting off after high-speed drives, which allows the turbos to cool down gradually.
4. Air Suspension System Failures
The 2014 Audi S8 is equipped with an adaptive air suspension system that provides a smooth ride and allows height adjustments for different driving conditions. However, as the vehicle ages, the air suspension components can develop leaks, leading to a sagging or uneven ride height. Commonly affected parts include the air struts, compressor, and control module. Replacing these components is costly, and because the suspension system is integral to the S8’s handling and comfort, malfunctions can significantly impact the driving experience.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of air suspension issues include a noticeable sag on one side of the car, a clunking noise when going over bumps, or a warning light on the dashboard. Regularly inspecting the suspension system and promptly addressing any signs of leaks can help prolong its lifespan. Some owners opt for aftermarket kits to replace the air suspension with traditional coil springs, although this alters the original ride quality and handling.
5. Transmission and Gearbox Problems
The 2014 S8 comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is generally reliable but can develop issues over time, particularly if not serviced regularly. Owners have reported hard shifts, delayed engagement, and even occasional transmission warning lights. These symptoms are often due to either a lack of regular servicing or issues with the mechatronics unit—a component responsible for controlling the transmission.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of transmission issues include rough shifting, hesitation when changing gears, and a clunking sound during acceleration. Regular transmission fluid changes, as recommended by Audi, can help maintain smooth shifting. However, if the mechatronics unit or other internal components fail, repairs can be expensive, so inspecting the transmission during a test drive is essential.
6. Brake Wear and Rotor Warping
Due to the high-performance nature of the S8, the brakes experience significant wear, particularly for drivers who use the car aggressively. The rotors are susceptible to warping, and the brake pads can wear down quickly. Audi’s high-performance brake components come at a premium, so owners should anticipate regular brake maintenance and possible rotor replacements.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of worn or warped brakes include vibrations during braking, reduced stopping power, and squealing noises. Replacing worn brake pads and rotors promptly can prevent further damage. Some owners choose aftermarket brake parts for improved durability, although high-quality components come at a similar price to original equipment.
Buying Tips: What to Look for in a 2014 Audi S8
Service Records: Due to the complexity of the 4.0L V8 engine and the air suspension, ensure the vehicle has been regularly serviced. Look for records of oil changes, brake maintenance, and, ideally, evidence of intake valve cleaning or suspension repairs.
Turbocharger Condition: Ask if any work has been done on the turbochargers, as they are costly to replace. During a test drive, listen for any unusual sounds from the engine, which could indicate turbocharger or cooling issues.
Suspension Test: Test the adaptive air suspension by toggling through the drive modes and observing any unusual noises or changes in ride height. Ensure the suspension operates smoothly and without warning lights.
Transmission Performance: Drive the car at both low and high speeds to feel for any rough shifting or delayed responses, which could indicate potential transmission issues.
Cost of Ownership: Is the 2014 Audi S8 Expensive to Own?
Fuel Costs
The 2014 S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan with a twin-turbo V8, which means it’s not the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road. Expect fuel economy in the range of 15-24 MPG, depending on driving habits. Premium fuel is recommended, adding to the overall running costs.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and brake checks, is relatively standard. However, specialized repairs—such as turbocharger replacements, air suspension repairs, and intake valve cleaning—can be costly. Transmission servicing, turbo maintenance, and suspension upkeep should be anticipated as part of ownership. Audi dealership servicing tends to be expensive, but certified independent mechanics can sometimes offer more affordable options.
Insurance and Depreciation
As a luxury sedan, the S8’s insurance premiums are generally higher than average. Depreciation can be steep in the first few years but stabilizes over time, so buying a used model like the 2014 can offer good value if well-maintained.
Potential Extra Costs
Given its complex electronics and advanced components, some owners opt for an extended warranty or maintenance package to cover potential repairs for items like the air suspension and turbochargers.
Conclusion
The 2014 Audi S8 is a powerful, luxurious vehicle that offers impressive performance and a smooth, adaptive driving experience. However, owners should be prepared for potential maintenance challenges, particularly related to the engine’s oil consumption, carbon buildup, turbochargers, and air suspension. By ensuring regular service and being vigilant about common issues, prospective buyers can enjoy the many benefits of the Audi S8 while minimizing unexpected repair costs.