IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2012–2014 Audi A8 (D4)

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2012–2014 Audi A8 (D4). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

5
Known Issues
3
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2012–2014 period has 3 more issues than the Audi A8 (D4) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Air struts leak and the compressor burns out trying to compensate. This is a common and expensive reality of aging luxury cars.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £1,000–£3,000Affects: 2010–2017

Typical symptoms

  • •Car sits low on one corner overnight
  • •Air suspension fault warning
  • •Loud compressor noise from the front bumper area

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the car sits level before the engine is started
  • ✓Cycle the ride height through its settings

4.0 TFSI Turbo Strainer Blockage

SeriousEngine

A tiny oil strainer screen feeding the twin turbos can block with carbon, starving the turbos of oil and causing rapid, catastrophic failure.

Most affected: 4.0 TFSI (including S8)

Estimated cost: £3,000–£5,000Affects: 2012–2017

Typical symptoms

  • •Siren noise from turbos
  • •Loss of power
  • •EPC light on

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask if the oil strainer has been replaced or removed (a common preventative fix)
  • ✓Check for extremely regular high-quality oil changes

3.0 TDI Timing Chain Rattle

SeriousEngine

The V6 TDI timing chains sit at the rear of the engine and can stretch, creating cold-start rattle and requiring gearbox removal for repair.

Most affected: 3.0 TDI

Estimated cost: £1,500–£3,500Affects: 2010–2014Often appears around: 90k-150k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Metallic rattle on cold start
  • •Timing correlation faults
  • •Rough running

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Insist on a true cold start after overnight stand
  • ✓Look for detailed invoices if chain work has been done
  • ✓Be wary of sellers who warm the engine before you arrive

Electrical Module and Sensor Failures

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The complex electronics produce various module failures including air suspension control units, comfort modules, and sensor faults as the car ages.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£1,500Affects: 2010–2017Often appears around: 80k-140k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Multiple dashboard warnings
  • •Central locking faults
  • •Infotainment glitches
  • •Battery drain

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Run full diagnostic scan with VCDS
  • ✓Test all comfort and convenience functions
  • ✓Check for parasitic battery drain

Cooling System Leaks

ModerateCooling System

The coolant regulating valve, water pump, and various plastic hoses can leak, causing gradual coolant loss and potential overheating.

Most affected: 3.0 TDI, 4.0 TFSI

Estimated cost: £350–£1,000Affects: 2010–2017Often appears around: 60k-120k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Low coolant warning
  • •Pink residue around engine
  • •Sweet smell after shutdown

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check coolant level from cold
  • ✓Inspect for staining around the water pump and valley area
  • ✓Look for coolant residue on the belly tray

Buying Tips for the 2012 Audi A8 (D4)

  • ✓Air suspension must sit level and raise/lower without excessive compressor noise
  • ✓Check all interior electronics, especially the MMI screen mechanism and seat massage functions
  • ✓On the 4.2 TDI and 4.0 TFSI, insist on a flawless service history; neglect on these engines is ruinously expensive
2010–2011 Audi A8 (D4)2015–2017 Audi A8 (D4)

Browse 2012–2014 Audi A8 (D4) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2012–2014 Audi A8 (D4) vehicles.

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Other Audi A8 (D4) Year Periods

2010–20112012–20142015–2017

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