nks979

Hey everybody, looking to jump into an S4 soon, I'm torn between a higher mileage 13-14 or a lower mileage 11-12, and was hoping for some input on which MY is the one to go for, I've seen a bit on the 2011 ones being preferred but being unreliable. I don't expect these cars to go without issues ever but coming out of a Lexus IS-F that has been full of minor problems I don't want to jump into something else thats constantly at the dealer. And what should I look for in a PPI? Thank you.

nks979

Also have seen issues with 2013+ steering on the S4, couldn't find if audi had come up with a fix for this yet?

DrGP

Fyi, I have had a 2010, 2014 , and currently drive a 2011. Model year does not matter. The driving experience is the same. And overall reliability differences are minimal. There is a difference between the 2013 and newer cars. They have a different grill and slightly different tail lights. also come with flat bottom steering wheel, Google maps and wifi not on earlier models. BUT, IMHO, that is not the most important thing to look for when buying a new S4. Look for the newest car, in good condition, with the lowest mileage with the options and color combo you like and can afford. The quintessential S4 has a sport dif(which I and many others think is a must have) B&O radio and Nav. Everything else is gravy. CPO is also desirable plus they are offering 1.9% financing right now on CPO cars. But if there is some other option you really want , no problem. Good luck with your search. BTW, these cars have been extremely reliable. I have 70+ K on mine and have only had to replace items that wear out naturally.

nks979

The incredible interior in the 13+ s4s have me leaning that way, though I've heard nothing but terrible things about the steering, has this been fixed with a reflash? Other than the sport diff - thats a must for me, what are the other options that are must haves. And last question, how well do the interiors hold up? Other than a poor steering feel I cannot live with a creaky/rattly interior. Thank you.

DrGP

I noticed almost no difference in steering feel switching from a 2010 to a 2014 and back to a 2011. The problem was with the 2013 models. And yes, Audi had a fix for it. My 2011 with 70k miles and Magma nappa leather seat look almost like new. Can't say how the Alcantara is holding up but don't really see many complaints about it on the forums. There have been some reports of squeaks and rattles, but I have not experienced any on my 70k mile car. Other than the flat bottom steering wheel, do you really feel that the the interior in the B8.5 car is that much of a difference and upgrade? I personally like the look of the flat bottom steering wheel and it is fatter, but turning a non circular wheel has a funny feel to it. The newer models give you more bells and whistles and also generally cost more.

Bobby Kinstle

There were a lot of complaints about Dynamic Steering Recommendation or DSR on the '13 but the dealerships "fixed" it by disabling DSR with a software update towards the end of 2013 calendar year. Personally I never noticed issues on mine, but it did feel a little different after the update. It wasn't that there was anything in particular wrong with it, just that people didn't like it very much.

beebee

2014 S4 here with 52000KM no problems except squeaky brakes. Have all options except dynamic dampers.

Bobby Kinstle

You need this:

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-permatex...tle/24125~pmx/

Apply to the moving parts of your brake caliper and no more squeaky brakes like magic.

Ladeitz

The best way to get the most reliable Audi is to buy a year which is two years after the model change.
C4: 1991-1994
B5: 1997-2002
B6: 2003-2005
B7: 2006-2008
B8: 2009-2016

I have a '10 S4 with 125k miles and it still runs like new.
Right now, I just need to replace the low oil level sensor.

Bobby Kinstle

I've always had really good luck with the half models. I had a B5.5 and a B8.5 now and both have been stellar. Audi rolls in all the fixes but doesn't introduce much new technology to break.