2013 Audi S4 Common Issues?
 

I'm just about to get 2013 Audi S4 and I'm wondering If this car is known to have some common problem and If so what they are? I would just like to know what to except at least?

I have a 2013 S4 with about 46K miles...no issues at all.

T stat and waterpump have been issues on all b8/8,5 S4s although the WP issue was predominantly a 2010-2011 issue. 2013 was the first yr for electronic steering. Many complained about lack of feel. Audi came up with a fix for it. Also there has been a design problem that leaves the IC radiator exposed and prone to being punctured by road debris. Usually not covered under warranty and can cost as much as $800 to replace the radiator. There is a $5 DIY protective screen that can be easily made and put on in less than an hr. I put them on all of my S4s since my 2010 had that problem. I understand later model yrs have a plastic protection from the factory. But my 2014 did not have it. Otherwise nothing to worry about. The S4 is a great car and reliability has been MUCH better than could be expected

54,000 miles on my 2013 and the only issues have been xenon bulbs burning out twice.

I had my water pump leaked (replaced under warranty) and just last night the right xenon light bulb went out. That light bulb is not cheap! $179 + tax (almost $200) and if you have the dealer install it, it'll cost you another $200!! Other than these two items, I've had no issues. My '13 is now 105k miles. Good luck with your purchase.

I've started browsing the forum again after a long hiatus from Audi. Used to have a B5, B6, and B7 Audi A4s and looking at a 2012 S4 DSG w/ about 60k+ miles for a daily, but will be driven probably 5k to 8k miles a year mostly in traffic. A few questions:

1) You mentioned 2013 has electronic steering. is the 2012 not the same? Better or worse?

2) I am avoiding the older S4 w/ v8s in hopes that 3.0"T" is more reliable. Do they still have timing belt and should be changed around 65-70k like the previous 1.8T and 2.0T A4s? Along with waterpump and thermostat? Anything else I should watch out for?

3) I believe All 2010-2016 S4 have rear A/C vents? We are expecting a baby girl in May so I want her to be comfortable in the back seat in Texas summers.

Thanks for your help in advance.

1) it's a matter of opinion. Some like it, some don't. I don't mind it
2) The 3.0T has a timing chain
3) Yes rear vents in the back of the center armrest. There's a wheel to adjust temperature but I suspect it's just a placebo.

2012 does not have electric steering. Many think it is better. I 've had 2 without electric steering and one with. Didn't really notice much difference myself. The 4.2 V8 in the BB6 and B7 s4s has problem with the plastic chain tensioners. Not a problem with the 3.0 V6 . There are a lot of different controls and settings associated with the HVAC and adjustable though the dash panel. There are also vents under the front seats and in the center console that provide air(hot or cool) to the rear seats. You can also adjust airflow and temp with dials on the console itself. I don't ride in the back seat, but passengers have been able to adjust the temp and airflow to their own comfort level. More adjustable than you might think. IMHO, not an issue.

Thanks for the info and TBH, for exterior I do prefer the B8 over the B8.5 but I dont mind either one. Ever since I picked up the 987 Boxster for weekend ride, not many cars come close to its handling, especially on a track. I'm not really looking to do any track with the S4, but I miss the Audi interior as no other car I've owned since then come close to it either. When I picked up the ATS, I test drove the C250 Sport and Infinit and some others, but not the A4 because I recall no more rear AC vents on the B8 A4? Rear AC vents are a must for me.